The skinny: Ernest Tubb Record Shop embraced its historic Broadway space, using Yamaha and NEXO speakers to craft vibrant, balanced sound that highlights every note and elevates the entire musical experience.

• The backbone of the system is a series of Yamaha CZR line arrays and point-source cabinets.
• NEXO ePS Series loudspeakers round out the system.
• Black Box AVS was responsible for the design, engineering, and implementation of a complete AV system.

Ernest Tubb Record Shop's Reimagined Live Music Experience

Nashville, a city known for honky-tonk and live music at every street corner, has evolved into a creative hub for artists across genres. On Lower Broadway, the Ernest Tubb Record Shop reimagined what a live music experience could be by creating an audio environment that honors Nashville’s heritage while delivering a modern, high-fidelity experience that keeps patrons engaged and comfortable. To meet this vision, Black Box AVS was responsible for the design, engineering, and implementation of a complete AV system, delivering a solution backboned by Yamaha CZR line arrays and point-source cabinets.

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As Martin Lawrence, owner of Black Box AVS detailed the project required more than an audio upgrade. What was needed was a cohesive technology ecosystem that supported live music, venue operations, guest experience, networking, lighting control, and long-term serviceability. Lawrence and his team designed and implemented the venue's technology backbone, including network infrastructure, wireless connectivity, centralized control systems, equipment rack systems, and integrated lighting control.

The building posed a classic Broadway challenge: long and narrow, with exposed brick walls and wood floors throughout. Heavy acoustic treatment wasn’t an option, so the team relied on coverage, delay zones, and precise tuning. “The goal was simple in concept but demanding in execution: deliver consistent SPL from front to back while preserving the twang of a steel guitar, the resonance of an upright bass, and the delicate textures of acoustic sets," Lawrence explained. "In a city where every note tells a story, balance wasn’t optional, it was essential .”

The backbone of the system is a series of Yamaha CZR line arrays and point-source cabinets, chosen for clarity, punch, and musical fidelity. “The CZRs really let every instrument breathe,” Lawrence said. “You hear the subtle harmonics in a #MakeWaves steel guitar, the snap of an upright bass, and the shimmer of acoustic strings - all without cranking the volume.”

The CZRs’ wide dynamic range remains articulate even at high SPLs, so audiences hear music—not just volume—a critical distinction in a city steeped in live music tradition. Front fills maintain clarity for the first rows, while the compact footprint preserves sightlines and the venue’s open feel. Control moved to iPads linked to centralized racks in an AV closet, enabling full FOH and lighting control without traditional booths. Chauvet fixtures, Luminaire software, and Visual Productions cores integrated dynamic lighting into the same interface. NETGEAR switches and Ruckus access points ensured reliable connectivity across four floors, with Mid-Atlantic racks and Panduit cable management keeping the system clean and serviceable.

NEXO ePS Series loudspeakers round out the system with high-output, full-range performance, combining precise coverage, selectable HF directivity, and a compact, flexible set of mounting options that make them easy to deploy throughout the space.

The results were immediate. Patrons could hear instruments with clarity, not just volume . “People say it sounds great. It’s not super loud; you actually hear the individual instruments,” Lawrence said. “It’s helping start that shift from bars putting in systems that are just the cheapest and the loudest to something that’s different—building a system from the ground up that makes the user experience enjoyable,” he explained.

The Ernest Tubb Record Shop proves that meticulous engineering, intelligent system design, and thoughtful resource use can transform a venue into a truly immersive sonic experience while honoring the city’s rich musical heritage. “At the end of the day, that’s the goal—building a spot I’d want to take friends to when they come to town,” Lawrence said.

Yamaha recently unveiled the latest evolution of its DXR line. Introducing the new DXRmk3 Series Powered Loudspeakers, designed for DJs, musicians, production professionals, rental providers, and venues. The third-generation series delivers higher output, enhanced sound quality, app-based control and advanced DSP processing in a powerful, portable package.

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"Today's audio professionals need loudspeakers that deliver exceptional sound quality while simplifying setup and operation," said Andres Franco, senior product marketing specialist, Pro Audio, Yamaha. "With DXR mk3, we've combined powerful acoustic performance, flagship-inspired DSP technology and app-based control with D-Remote to help users achieve outstanding results quickly and consistently. Whether they're performing on stage, managing a live event or installing a permanent system, DXR mk3 delivers the clarity, control, and reliability professionals expect from Yamaha."

Featuring a new 2,000W Class-D amplifier, up to 134 dB SPL output, and intuitive speaker control for live events, performances, and fixed installations, the DXR mk3 delivers exceptional power and flexibility. New Bluetooth connectivity and a full-color LCD interface allow users to manage, tune, and adjust up to 10 speakers from a single mobile device, streamlining setup and operation. Users can quickly recall room-specific presets, access feedback suppression tools, and make real-time adjustments, helping musicians, DJs, and audio crews adapt seamlessly to changing venue conditions.

Additional highlights include balanced, high-performance sound with enhanced HF and LF coverage; DSP presets optimized for FOH, monitors, DJs, live music, and speech; built-in feedback suppression and tuning tools; a lightweight, durable enclosure for easy transport; and flexible use for mains, monitors, and installations.

Bell Bank is one of the largest family-owned banks in the United States, built on a culture of connection and community. Bell Tower, the company’s Fargo, North Dakota headquarters, is a 14-story, 105,000-square-foot facility that serves as the hub for the institution. As such, the Town Hall section of the corporate headquarters needed to reflect that central focus with a space that went beyond the traditional corporate model of a boardroom or meeting room.

Bell Bank envisioned a dynamic, multi-functional environment serving as a collaborative center for meetings and training sessions that can then transition seamlessly into a professional production space for high-level events such as receptions, presentations, and more.

To bring this vision to life, Bell Bank turned to FARBER Sound – Venue Transformation, leveraging a long-standing partnership built on a deep understanding of the bank’s operational culture. A project of this scope demanded a proven power control foundation. For FARBER, that meant incorporating LynTec into the project.

A Core Challenge

The core challenge was significant: the Town Hall needed to function simultaneously as a multi-purpose event space and a broadcast-capable facility. That dual mandate required integrating a wide range of disparate audio, video, and lighting (AVL) systems spanning everyday presentation gear, a professional mixing console and stage box network, multi-camera 4K capable video production infrastructure, architectural lighting, and a full complement of event and entertainment lighting fixtures. Each system category carries its own power requirements, startup dependencies, and operational profiles. The task was to unify all of those elements under a single, intelligent power control solution that could adapt automatically to whatever mode the room needed to be in, without placing the burden of technical management on the bank’s staff.

To address this, FARBER’s system designer, Cory Deming, specified a LynTec RPC-384 power control panel as the backbone of the entire AVL system. The RPC-384 manages sequenced power distribution across all AVL subsystems, ensuring every component powers on and off in the correct order based on the active room configuration. “We have been using LynTec products for decades and were confident this would be the correct product to handle the Town Hall requirements,” Deming said.

Beyond on-site performance, the RPC-384 also enables FARBER’s team to monitor system performance and handle the majority of troubleshooting remotely from their headquarters in Plymouth, Minnesota, reducing the need for on-site service calls and providing Bell Bank with a responsive support infrastructure.

Physical flexibility was built into every layer of the design as well: the stage was engineered in full, half, and quarter configurations, complete with an ADA-accessible ramp, with the entire assembly storable out of sight when not in use. The Chauvet Pro and GLP moving-head lighting fixtures can be repositioned into preset looks saved to the control system and executed on any touch panel in the room, eliminating the need for ladders or manual repositioning between events.

Working in close collaboration with the architectural team, Farber integrated multi-angled acoustic ceiling clouds to optimize sound diffusion while contributing to the visual identity of the space. A proscenium design and curtain system enable dynamic theatrical reveals and adaptable performance configurations, giving the room a range of presentation modes that would feel at home in a professional venue. Detailed EASE acoustic modeling guided targeted treatments to parallel walls and other reflective surfaces, improving speech intelligibility across all event types. The result is a room where under-the-hood complexity stays invisible, and the experience remains focused on the content.

“Bell Bank needed a space that could do two very different jobs without feeling like either one was a compromise," said Dave Farber, owner of FARBER. "The only way to make that work is to get the power architecture right from the start. Our experience working with LynTec products in other projects gave us the confidence that the RPC could handle an installation this complex.”

A Unified Solution

The RPC-384 provides the unified power control foundation that makes the dual-purpose room architecture practical. The production backbone it manages includes a Yamaha DM7-EX digital mixing console, a 20Gbit redundant fiber network supporting AVoIP, Dante, GreenGO, HiQnet, NDI, and sACN protocols, and a 12G SDI video infrastructure anchored by Panasonic 4K PTZ cameras, a FOR-A production switcher, and AJA matrix routing. The architectural and event lighting system centers on Chauvet Pro and GLP moving-head fixtures and wash units, all addressable and positionable from the room’s touch panels. The front-end interface throughout is an Extron control system, providing staff with a clean, intuitive surface for day-to-day operation regardless of what is running beneath it.

By interfacing the Extron control system directly with the LynTec RPC-384, FARBER turned power management into a background function. When a staff member taps a touch panel to configure the room, the RPC-384 sequences power to the appropriate equipment automatically. A simple presentation mode enables only the necessary audio and video components. A full Town Hall production spins up the complete system, including the control booth, only when dedicated technicians are on-site. Bank staff operate a professional-grade venue confidently, regardless of their technical background.

Local Londoners were excited when the news hit in 2020 that the historic (and then vacant) Arding & Hobbs department store was to be renovated and brought back to life. Following a year of careful planning and construction that began in 2022, it’s now been transformed into a versatile venue, featuring refurbished offices with high-end, hotel-style amenities, new retail, and restaurants.

Among the highlights of the iconic systems integration project, the third floor of the 116-year-old building has been re-imagined as a members-only (WeWork) multi-use facility, complete with the latest Pro AV smart technology and IP signal distribution.

An Iconic Integration

Assessing the unique challenges of the project, the installation needed to reflect the building’s rich heritage while making it relevant for modern users. The space had to be flexible, supporting everything from co-working, business meetings, and videoconferencing to hospitality, social events, and private parties.

Perhaps most importantly, the technology infrastructure needed to be unobtrusive, simple to operate, and powerful, enhancing the user experience without detracting from the building’s period details and aesthetic. In particular, the AV systems had to be flexible to enable the various rooms to operate efficiently and with total freedom.

Commercial hospitality operator x+why, a London-based provider of “flexible, purpose-driven workspaces,” was tasked with overseeing the renovation of the space. The company is known for creating places where work, leisure, and community naturally overlap. At Arding & Hobbs, x+why operates and manages the Arding Rooms on the third floor as a private members’ club, alongside coworking space, private offices, meeting rooms, and event spaces.

Understanding the challenges and workarounds of creating something new from an existing space, x+why brought in Harlow, Essex, U.K.-based systems integrator the SCCI Group, which was responsible for the overall design and installation of the technology for the Arding Rooms. The SCCI Group designs and completes about 50 Pro AV projects each year.

The new venue was finished in June 2024, with the final interior spaces opening through 2025. Jack Collins, general manager overseeing the Arding Rooms for x+why, said this project marked the end of a journey from single-use department store to a flexible building designed to change with how people live and work today.

“The design was led by the idea that old and new should sit comfortably together,” said Collins. “Historic features were restored and celebrated, while reclaimed materials, local makers and sustainable finishes were used throughout. The vision was to create a warm, characterful space that feels rooted in history but designed for contemporary life—somewhere people want to work, meet, relax, and connect.”

Collins added that all the spaces they work on, including the A&B project, are designed to be as sustainable and “green” as possible, "from the chair you sit on, to the living roofs and energy-efficient lighting.”

Different Rooms, Different Uses

Richard Reid, director of business development for SCCI Group, led the team for the equipment installation and systems design within the rooms. He said that each meeting room has a Sony Bravia Pro display at the front with Control4 speakers, Yamaha subwoofers, and a Polycom camera linked to a Lightware box. The setup uses a standard junction box and a matching cover to mount the camera, ensuring the wiring is secure and unobtrusive while the camera has sufficient PoE. A Nureva HDX series soundbar offers omnidirectional mic pickup, so voices are heard clearly no matter where people sit, face, or move in the room.

“So basically, we are coming out of it as a USB-C cable,” Reid said. “When anyone wants to use hook up, you plug the USB-C cable into your laptop, and everything is on the Sony screen as if it is on your laptop. Your camera and microphone get activated automatically.”

The audio speakers have been set up and commissioned to work in a room with a high ceiling, reducing echoes while providing a warm sound experience. In the venue’s “Club Room," which is designed as an elegant yet flexible event space, there is a dedicated L-Acoustics audio system, with seven X6i loudspeakers, two SYVA subwoofers, and two SUB10i compact subwoofers, all powered by an LA4X and LA2Xi amplified controller.

“From the initial brief, we envisioned the Club Room as a place for informal business lunches,” said Reid. “In reality, it’s also become very popular for parties, watching sports, and other group activities. It’s a multi-functional destination for members, and Control4 helps us shift the technology quickly and efficiently so it can adapt to these different room uses, while the quality of the AV experience is exceptional.”

At the end of the day, Reid said that understanding what the client wants also helps him select the equipment, set the look, and define what needs to be controlled. “Look, anyone can throw any equipment in and just say, it's done, but every project we do has got our name on it,” he noted. “So, it must be right. And we get our projects right by talking to the client and understanding exactly what they want. All our devices must communicate with each other for the user experience to be a good one, so picking compatible technology that makes controlling the devices easy is critical.”

Centralized Control

The centerpiece of the installation is ADI's Control4 automation platform, which manages audio and video control throughout the building and is accessed by a control panel. All the AV devices in the event spaces can be operated independently; a Control4 CORE 5 controller serves as the central automation engine for the A&B building, managing audio and video experiences across the multi-use spaces. It enables seamless control of AV systems, allowing rooms to quickly shift between different use cases—such as business meetings, videoconferencing, and large-scale social events—while keeping the technology intuitive and hidden within the historic surroundings.

The Control4 CORE 5 software platform controls distributed audio systems, video displays, and a virtually unlimited number of sources. User interaction is handled through Control4 interfaces, including Halo handheld remotes. Key features include signal processing for large-scale projects, support for multiple audio and video zones, native integration with a wide range of third-party AV devices, and a customizable user interface. Its reliability and scalability make it well suited for complex, multi-room environments like the third floor of the A&B building, which require consistent performance and simple day-to-day operation.

Eric Fritz, senior product manager at Control4, said the Control4 CORE 5 control system supports IP-based control, allowing it to communicate seamlessly with networked AV devices across the building. In the Arding & Hobbs project, this is supported by a robust Wi-Fi infrastructure built using Araknis Networks equipment, ensuring dependable system performance throughout the property.

“The Control4 CORE 5 is an ideal fit for Arding & Hobbs because it combines power, flexibility, and ease of use, essential qualities for a historic building that now serves a wide range of modern functions,” said Fritz. “It allows technology to adapt quickly to changing room configurations and event types while remaining discreet within the interior design, enabling operators and users to focus on experience, well-being, and community engagement, rather than on managing complex technology.”

SCCI’s Reid added the Control4 system is also used to control the monitor and the audio system in the "Silk Room," one of the larger meeting rooms, and a smaller “Draper Room” event space, all from a handheld remote. The Draper Room is large enough to host product launches, conferences and other activities for up to 500 attendees. The room features a 16:9 drop-down screen and Epson 3LCD projector, with an audio system supported by a Yamaha multi-channel amplifier.

The Vision Realized

There were several challenges to the install, such as hiding wiring inside pre-existing, 116-year-old brick walls that needed to be moved in some cases to add extra space for an equipment room and other things. “You're trying to figure out, how you can get equipment in an area that's not designed to have equipment, how you get speakers in spaces not designed for that and subwoofers that couldn't be hidden,” Reid explained. “So, what do you do? Well, there's no point trying to hide something you can't hide, so let's make a feature of it. So, creativity in how you install is also very much an important part of this."

While Reid said it's always a "sprint to the finish at the end," he went to the launch party and thought everything looked and sounded great. "Ultimately, everything just fell into place, which was always the plan," he added. "Because it's not as if we were reinventing the wheel, we were just putting technology together for the benefit of the spaces. The client was extremely pleased with the outcome and that’s really want we’re after.”

Phil Nevin, a co-founder at x+why, said SCCI’s AV installation has helped create a great experience for its members. "With SCCI’s expertise and support from Control4 and other ADI brands, we have a system that enhances enjoyment, well-being, and connection, rather than just delivering the important technical features that we require,” he added. “The discretion the system offers within the interior of the building is also a huge part of its appeal. It gives us everything that we asked for and so much more."

With more than 30 locations around Central Florida, Addition Financial Credit Union has been focused on enhancing both collaboration and communication in the hybrid workplace. Specifically, it was looking for a seamless videoconferencing experience in its headquarters’ main conference room, one that hosts two high-level meetings on a monthly basis.

The credit union recently went through a technology-enhanced makeover, creating a conferencing environment that enables employees to meet more efficiently and share information clearly, while supporting hybrid communication with clients and internal teams, according to Andrew Mulazzi, Lumens Southeast zone manager.

So, why the change? As with corporate settings across all verticals, the meeting space continues to evolve, becoming more hybrid with more remote participants. That is especially true for Addition Financial Credit Union, with many locations spread throughout the area.

Initially, the main conference room was oriented 90 degrees, with the typical large rectangular table and display on one end. "That arrangement was not conducive to include remote and in-room participants seeing each other easily," explained Chet Neal, CTS, president of Altamonte Springs-based RelianceAV, which partnered on the integration. "A U-shape table arrangement was chosen to address that challenge and to make content presented more easily viewed. It also provides better camera angles that offer a better experience for remote attendees."

Prior to the technical installation, Neal said there was an existing screen, projector, and lift used for these conferences. RelianceAV renovated the room, building a wall to support a 135-inch EZ LED Visual dvLED video display with 1.2mm pixel pitch. The enhancements only took RelianceAV one week to fully install, commission, and train with the client.

"The room also had a bad flutter echo from the windows and a large drywall ceiling section," Neal added. "[Primacoustic] acoustic panels were added to the walls and acoustic ceiling tiles were used to effectively address this."

RelianceAV turned to a wide range of Pro AV solutions to pull the room together. Lumens CamConnect Pro and Lumens auto-tracking cameras were at the heart of the installation. Mulazzi explained CamConnect enables intelligent, microphone-driven speaker tracking, automatically switching and framing the active speaker without the need for manual operation.

The Lumens solutions work in tandem with Yamaha's RM-CG ceiling array microphone, while incorporating Barco ClickShare for wireless content sharing, allowing team members to instantly present from any device. Additionally, a Dante two-channel power amplifier from Muxlab, switches provided by NETGEAR, and touchpanels from Aurora Multimedia enhance the new technology.

The end result is what Neal called the ultimate BYOD room. Microsoft Teams is the most used collaboration tool, but Addition Financial wanted participants to be able to host and run meetings from their laptops. "The Lumens Connect and Aurora DSP allows for USB video and audio to be distributed to a wired laptop connection through Aurora VPX AV over IP solution, or wirelessly with the Barco ClickShare," he explained.

The conference room has been well received, and the credit union is looking to update four smaller conference rooms to all include videoconferencing capabilities. "Working with RelianceAV was a great experience," Mulazzi added. "Chet and his team worked with our sales and engineering teams to design the workflow and implement best practices for the Lumens solutions deployed. RelianceAV’s integration expertise ensured that all technologies—from audio to camera tracking—worked together flawlessly."

Meg Golz, MarComm Manager, Business Solutions at Yamaha

How long have you been part of the AV/IT industry, and how did you get into it? I’ve been a part of the AV/IT industry for about 15 years.

During my senior year of high school, I started my own DJ business and began teaching myself how to run sound for my gigs. Being a DJ blended my love of music and performance and opened a new opportunity to explore the technical side of audio.

It was shortly after I began my DJ business that I learned about audio engineering as a career. I enrolled at Madison Media Institute in Madison, Wisconsin, and earned my associate’s degree in audio engineering.

While I was in school, I immersed myself in the music scene – attending tons of live music shows and sitting in on a lot of engineering sessions, working to better understand how this industry functions and how I could be a part of it long-term.

As I continued my education, I realized how broad the pro audio business could be, so I went on to earn my bachelor’s degree in marketing for entertainment and media business.

That combination of technical and marketing experience helped me land my first marketing role at a pro AVL dealer, which really kick-started my career in the AV industry.

Tell us about your music and technical background, and how you got into this as a young woman. What inspired you? Music has always been a central part of my life. I grew up in a very musical family and have played instruments for as long as I can remember - starting with piano in 2^nd grade, then cello in middle school, singing in choir, and playing drums in drumline during high school. I also taught myself guitar and the art of the synth in college, while learning audio engineering.

While I was attending school in Madison, I also started my indie rock band, Seasaw, with my best friend Eve. We’ve been making music together for about 15 years. Through Seasaw, I’ve had the opportunity to release four studio albums and tour across the country - from New York to Nebraska, even Texas for South by Southwest.

It’s been especially rewarding to apply both sides of my education to the band. My audio engineering background helps with the technical aspects of recording and performing, while my media business degree helps with all the marketing that’s required as a DIY band.

As for what inspires me: I’ve always been really inspired by women in music who blend creativity with technical vision.

One of my biggest inspirations is Karen O from the Yeah Yeah Yeahs. She has always stood out to me as someone who is not only an incredible performer but also very intentional about the creative and technical direction of her work. From music to visuals to developing entire film soundtracks—she’s done it all. She’s also a down-to-earth person with good human values, and that’s inspiring, too.

Seeing women like her succeed helped show me that there are many ways to contribute to this industry, both on stage and behind the scenes.

What is your role at Yamaha? I’m currently the MarComm Manager for Business Solutions at Yamaha. In this role, I lead marketing communications for Yamaha’s Unified Communications and Commercial Installation Solutions product lines in the US.

I work on campaigns that help explain how our technology solves real-world AV and IT challenges - particularly in integrated environments like corporate spaces, retail, hospitality, and other commercial installations.

What do you most like about your role? What I love most about my role at Yamaha is the people I get to work with. I joined the team recently, and everyone I’ve connected with so far has been incredibly welcoming, creative, and passionate about what they do.

It’s been exciting to join a team where people care deeply about both the technology and the customers we support. I’m learning a lot already and feel very fortunate to be part of an organization that values collaboration.

Do you have advice for young women starting in our industry? Don’t be afraid to explore different opportunities. When I first started, I thought my career would look very specific—I imagined myself becoming a live sound engineer and DJ full-time. By staying curious, asking questions, and being open to new opportunities, I discovered other areas where I could grow and make an impact.

It’s also worth noting that the AV and IT fields can sometimes feel overwhelming because they’re traditionally male-dominated, but there are far more incredible women in this industry than people realize. In my experience, connecting with other women in this field has been endlessly rewarding. Many of my now closest friends and mentors are women I’ve met through this industry, and we continue to support and learn from each other.

Please share something about yourself that would help our audience understand a bit more about you. I currently live in Madison, Wisconsin, and I’m a huge Badger/NCAA basketball fan. March is always one of my favorite times of year—not only because of International Women’s Day, but also because it’s the start of March Madness—my personal Christmas.

Music is still a huge part of my life outside of work. My band, Seasaw, is currently gearing up to release a new single this March as we work toward releasing our next album. When I’m not making music, I’m probably listening to it. I’m an avid vinyl collector and spend many of my weekends digging through used indie bins at my favorite local shops.

Check out more Women in AV/IT stories here.

The second half of 2025 started off with major acquisition news in the Pro AV world. It came at us pretty quickly, closing out June and starting up July with early fireworks. Let's get you caught up with what you may have missed.

3G Productions acquired Main Light’s 70,000-square-foot location in Nashville, taking over Main Light’s Antioch neighborhood building, its full inventory, and all seven employees, who have now joined the 3G team. The shop’s complement of lighting equipment includes brands like Robe, MA, Ayrton, Martin, Elation, Chauvet, Astera, and Tyler Truss, among others.

Via this acquisition, 3G is better positioned to support its established Southeastern client base with more gear and a centralized location. Having also recently added multiple account managers based in the Southeast, 3G will be able to service its East Coast client base out of a more geographically desirable location. Main Light still maintains ownership and operations of its three locations in Wilmington (DE), Teterboro (NJ), and headquarters in Las Vegas, all of which will continue to operate with a sole focus on dry-hire lighting rentals.

Audinate ended June with its acquisition of Iris Studios. Iris offers a control-first video production platform that enables users to seamlessly manage cameras remotely, providing features like AI-driven auto tracking, real-time color correction and cloud recording, all from a single, cloud-based interface. The Iris platform is brand-agnostic and is currently enabled on a wide range of PTZ cameras on the market. You can read our full coverage here.

Panduit, which acquired Atlona in 2019, shut down the company Hall Technologies acquired Atlona's product portfolio. It was announced July 1 via an email to its customers, which Cindy Davis covered here.

As always, there was more than acquisition news. Here's what else you may have missed.

People News

d&b audiotechnik Welcomes Jocelyne Bückner as VP of Marketing

d&b audiotechnik named Jocelyne Bückner as new VP of marketing. In her new role, Bückner leads the company’s global marketing strategy, driving brand growth and market expansion. She focuses on developing and executing a comprehensive marketing roadmap, ensuring alignment across all territories and supporting d&b’s continued growth and innovation.

Bückner brings extensive experience in all facets of marketing, including brand management, PR, digital, performance, and product marketing. Having worked at d&b audiotechnik from 2016 to 2023, she has a deep understanding of the company’s culture, values, and spirit. Bückner is highly experienced in leadership roles and has successfully mentored and developed teams in the past. Most recently, she led Holoplot’s global marketing team.

LYNX Technik Appoints New Executive Leadership Team

LYNX Technik appointed new executive leadership. Markus Motzko has been appointed chief Executive officer and Vincent Noyer will take on the role of chief technology officer, forming a new leadership team to guide the company forward. Founder and longtime CEO Winfried Deckelmann will transition out of daily operations and continue to support the company as a member of the Supervisory Board, where he will serve as Chairman.

Motzko brings extensive experience in production processes, manufacturing optimization, and technical leadership. Since joining LYNX Technik, he has led production and administration, focusing on operational efficiency and long-term growth. Prior to joining the company, Motzko held roles in the industrial and medical semiconductor sectors, managing product development, supply chain operations, and customer engagement.

Noyer, previously director of product marketing, assumes the CTO role with over two decades of experience in the broadcast and live sports industries. Before LYNX Technik, he held senior positions at Ross Video, where he helped drive the success of the PIERO Sports Graphics solution.

PlexusAV announces Jim Reinhardt as US Sales Manager

PlexusAV appointed Jim Reinhardt as U.S. sales manager. With extensive experience at companies including tvONE, WyreStorm, and Crestron, Reinhardt brings a deep understanding of both the technology and the needs of integrators and end users across the AV industry. This appointment continues PlexusAV's growth, presence, and impact in the U.S. market.

“I’m thrilled for the opportunity to join an early-stage technology company at a true inflection point of an industry that is demanding 100% interoperability and truly open standards," said Reinhardt. "The team, the product offering, and the vision at PlexusAV are all in place; now it’s about delivering value to businesses and organizations that demand flexibility, compatibility, adaptability, and reliability. I can’t wait to get started."

RISE Welcomes Arlen Schweiger as Director of Content

RISE Media Strategy appointed Arlen Schweiger as director of content. Schweiger brings nearly two decades of experience in the AV industry, with a comprehensive background that spans residential, commercial, and consumer sectors. His most recent role as editor-in-chief of CE Pro magazine, along with his previous editorial positions at Commercial Integrator, Security Sales & Integration, and Electronic House, have cemented his reputation as a content creator, known for his expertise, writing prowess, and deep industry knowledge.

In his new role, Schweiger will spearhead RISE's content strategy, overseeing the production of diverse content, including blogs, press releases, and case studies, as well as directing RISE’s search initiatives, including the new frontiers of Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) and Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) to the benefit of RISE clients. He will also focus on building and nurturing media relationships, expanding RISE's presence in international media as the company grows its global client base. Additionally, he will develop content distribution pathways to reach architects, designers, and builders for RISE’s integrator clients and design-forward brands.

Yamaha Appoints Sotaro Nishida to Executive Officer and SVP of Audio

Sotaro Nishida was appointed executive officer and SVP of audio at Yamaha Corporation of America (YCA). Nishida has been with Yamaha for over 20 years. In this newly created role, Nishida oversees both the Consumer Audio and Professional Audio departments, focusing on enhancing customer satisfaction while expanding the breadth and depth of innovative Yamaha audio solutions available to integrators, audio professionals, and consumers.

Before joining YCA, Nishida was the CEO of Yamaha Unified Communications (YUC). In 2024, YCA assumed sales, marketing, and support responsibilities for unified communications products in the U.S. Before joining YUC, he worked at Yamaha Europe’s headquarters in Hamburg, Germany, and handled assignments in Japan and Latin America. Throughout his time at the company, he has been involved with both the Pro Audio Division and the Music Entertainment Division.

Company News

Alfalite Obtains NCAGE and TAA Certifications

Alfalite has obtained both the NCAGE Code (NATO Commercial and Government Entity) and TAA (Trade Agreements Act) compliance certification, marking a major milestone in the company’s international growth strategy. These two certifications enable Alfalite to participate in defense and governmental procurement projects across NATO member states and the U.S. government, including contracts requiring strict compliance and traceability standards.

The certifications reinforce Alfalite’s presence in workspace, control room, and Security Operations Center (SOC) environments, where its LED displays are already deployed—often confidentially—in mission-critical facilities belonging to Ministries of Defense and Interior, military command centers, royal institutions, major telecom operators, and global news agencies. These trusted installations confirm the reliability and security performance of Alfalite’s technology in sensitive and highly regulated operational contexts.

Datapath VSN Processors and Graphics Products Now Compatible with Windows 11

Datapath is now offering its VSN video wall controllers with full Microsoft Windows 11 compatibility. Available now across the full suite of VSN controllers and graphics products, Datapath’s latest graphics driver provides improved performance, and more flexibility when specifying hardware for multi-source/multi-end point video wall applications. With the default operating system compatibility remaining as Windows 10, customers can now specify Windows 11 at no extra cost.

Along with reliability and speed, end users can benefit from the upgrade to Windows 11’s enhanced embedded security with Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 which, along with Datapath’s Transport Layer Security encryption, provides additional peace of mind for mission critical applications. As well as support for Windows 11, the new driver also supports improved performance, especially for displaying complex web and 3D applications in industries such as electronics, healthcare, automotive, aerospace, robotics, and manufacturing.

Dillinger Labs Names Empire PRO New Distributor

Dillinger Labs, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Eleven Engineering, has named Bell, CA-based Empire PRO its new distributor. Empire PRO is among the largest distributors of professional audio, video, and lighting equipment nationwide. The company provides its clients with a reliable, supportive, and efficient source of optimal full-system-solutions by distributing leading audio, video, and lighting brands, stocking deep inventory in-house, being centrally located in the heart of Los Angeles and delivering promptly.

LEA Professional Partners with AVA for Support in Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa

LEA Professional announced its partnership with Audio Visual Associates (AVA), a manufacturer’s representative based in Missouri. This partnership promises to bring LEA’s rich technology catalog to Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, and Southern Illinois customers.

AVA Reps brings decades of industry knowledge and has built a reputation for dedicated service and technical expertise across a wide range of professional and commercial AV projects. AVA creatively connects customer-focused manufacturers with value-added dealers to ensure end users receive superior products and quality service. This collaborative approach makes them an ideal partner for LEA Professional, which strives to always deliver innovative and reliable audio solutions.

This partnership will bring LEA Professional’s Network Connect series of professional amplifiers and companion Dante Connect series featuring Dante and AES67 connectivity to AVA’s customers. These series allow integrators to utilize cloud-based remote control, monitoring, notifications, and more from any internet-enabled device, allowing them to stay connected anywhere in the world.

Neutrik Celebrates 50th Anniversary

NEUTRIK recently celebrated reaching the milestone of the creation of the 2-billionth connector with a civic reception at Neutrik Group headquarters in Schaan, Liechtenstein. A guest list of 45 included invitees from national and local government and media, as well as from within the company and its partner networks. Welcoming speeches were given by Robert Büchel, Liechtenstein Minister of Economic Affairs and Markus Beck, Deputy Mayor of Schaan. Also present was Manfred Kaufmann, President of the Liechtenstein Parliament.

Since its inception in 1975, the NEUTRIK brand has been at the forefront of interconnect technology. From its XLR and speakON connectors to the powerCON power connectivity series, and the advancements inherent in opticalCON fiber optic and etherCON data solutions, NEUTRIK has engineered the means by which these technologies can be deployed in heavy-duty, professional production applications, including in outdoor extreme environments.

Marking its milestone half-century, and celebrating the brand’s accomplishments and vision for the future, a special limited edition 50th Anniversary product line has been issued to commemorate this historic occasion. This commences with the release of special anniversary edition male and female XLR connectors and a ¼-inch instrument plug. These feature a new conductive zinc-based coating, providing an aesthetic dark grey metallic finish with a laser-engraved NEUTRIK 50 YEARS anniversary commemorative logo.

Transformation Entertainment Group (TEG) has named Austin, TX-based ProVideo & Sound its new representatives for the Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Arkansas (TOLA) territory.

ProVideo & Sound is a premier manufacturer’s representative firm specializing in professional audio, video, and lighting solutions across Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Arkansas. They represent a portfolio of top-tier AV brands, connecting manufacturers with dealers, integrators, consultants, and end users through trusted relationships, technical expertise, and regional market knowledge. ProVideo & Sound’s team is dedicated to providing exceptional sales support, product training, and strategic insight to help its partners succeed in today’s fast-evolving AV landscape. With decades of experience in the TOLA region, ProVideo & Sound is a reliable extension of the brands it represents and a valued resource to its channel partners.

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

[SCN Hybrid World: Right on Schedule]

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

Plug-and-Play All Day

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

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

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

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

[SCN Hybrid World: Out of Sight Sound]

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

Conference Room Ready

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

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

More AI and Beyond

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

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

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

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

Atlona Captivate AT-CAP-SP100

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

AVer FONE700

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

Biamp Speakerphone

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

Boom Collaboration Boom GEMINI

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

ClearOne CHAT 150 BT

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

Crestron Flex Pods

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

Jabra Speak2 75

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

Logitech Logi Dock

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

MAXHUB BM35

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

MSolutons MS-SP10

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

Sennheiser TeamConnect Intelligent Speaker

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

Telycam SONO

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

Yamaha YVC-330

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

Yamaha launched two new intelligent audio switches that expand its ADECIA product line. As core network switches, they offer the connections, power, and additional management tools needed to keep high-quality audio devices running smoothly in meeting and conference environments.

The SWX2210P-10G, 1G 10-port, and the SWX2310P-28GT, 1G 24-port are intelligent L2 PoE switches that complement Yamaha’s ADECIA ecosystem, which includes ceiling microphones, directional mics, signal processors, and speakers, ensuring seamless audio distribution and management. ADECIA by Yamaha is a comprehensive audio solution designed to simplify the process of setting up and managing high-quality audio systems for meeting and conference spaces.

[Hybrid: The Next Generation]

The new ADECIA switches are optimized for Dante communications, offering security and enough power over Ethernet (PoE) and higher output POE+ for an entire system of connected devices. Once connected to an ADECIA installation, they apply the Dante-optimized settings via LLDP, a protocol for exchanging system management data between neighboring devices. They simplify the network setup and incorporate settings that allow users to check multicast traffic, reduce wasted bandwidth, and troubleshoot. Security settings can be updated via the ADECIA RM-CR (room controller) GUI, eliminating unauthorized access to meetings.

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

The SWX2210P-10G is optimized for small and medium ADECIA systems, and the SWX2310P-28GT is optimized for medium and large ADECIA systems. With a single click in the Web GUI, users can configure ports for ProAV profiles like Dante and NDI, streamlining the process of using both on the same switch.

The Pro AV newsmaker blitz of 2025 didn't slow down. Starin made a couple big moves, Exertis Almo has a new partnership, and companies like Bose Professional are adding to their teams.

Here's what you may have missed last week. 

[All AV Network ISE Coverage in One Space!]

People News

3G Productions Continues to Expand Sales Team

West Coast-based live event production and systems integration services provider 3G Productions has bolstered its sales staff with two recent hires: Sebastian Yepes as director of accounts, and Juan Segovia as account manager.

Based in Orlando, Yepes comes to 3G after more than seven years with 4Wall Entertainment, most recently serving as the director of live Events. Prior to that, he spent three years as OPAV’s director of accounts, and has also worked for both ESPN and Telemundo Media, a division of NBCUniversal.

In his new role as director of accounts, Yepes is responsible for growing 3G’s business on the East Coast and in the touring market, especially within the Latin music industry, where 3G already has a solid presence and is looking to expand.

Segovia, who is located in the Miami-Fort Lauderdale area, also joins the company from 4Wall, where he has been both an account executive and project manager. His background further includes maritime AVL positions with Navalimpianti USA and Carnival Cruise Line Entertainment.

In his position as account manager, Segovia is leveraging his relationships and deepening 3G’s footprint on the East Coast, assisting Yepes to support their shared client base. Segovia is additionally be tasked with handling 3G’s growing used equipment sales business.

Bose Professional Expands Sales Leadership Team

Bose Professional has appointed Rick Renner as regional sales manager for the Central U.S. region and Tim Valley as regional sales manager for the Western U.S. region. Katie Stewart will be managing the Eastern U.S. region, as part of Bose Professional’s three-region approach to sales in North America. These strategic hires and appointments are part of Bose Professional’s continued commitment to strengthening its sales leadership and driving growth across the U.S. market.

Rick Renner joins Bose Professional with over 20 years of experience in the professional audio industry. He has held leadership roles at Sennheiser Electronic Corporation and Shure Incorporated, where he most recently served as senior director, professional audio U.S. In this role, Renner played a key part in building long-lasting partnerships with end users, channel partners, and artists, which resulted in record sales growth. 

Valley also brings over 20 years of experience in sales and management in the professional audio industry. He has held key positions at Shure Incorporated and BrightSign, where he most recently served as director of commercial sales. His expertise in team leadership and building customer relationships makes him an ideal fit for Bose Professional’s growing presence in the Western U.S. His career is marked by a focus on fostering deep connections with customers and advancing sales strategies that deliver results.

A.C. ProMedia Welcomes Kurt Metzler as Business Development Manager

A.C. ProMedia, distributor of products and solutions for the commercial and Pro AV installation markets, appointed Kurt Metzler as business development manager. In his new role, Metzler focuses on expanding the company’s presence by cultivating strong relationships with key accounts, providing comprehensive training to clients and sales representatives, and uncovering new growth opportunities. Additionally, he works closely with the supply chain department to streamline order processing and support marketing initiatives by representing the company at tradeshows, promotional events, and product demonstrations.

Metzler has a distinguished career spanning multiple decades in the pro audio industry. He has held roles at companies such as AVL Media Group, Powersoft Advanced Technologies, and Meyer Sound Labs, where he earned a reputation for driving sales, launching innovative products, and fostering lasting relationships with customers and industry stakeholders.

Nemal Electronics Adds New Sales Rep

Nemal hired Omar Newball as its new sales rep. Newball is a connectivity specialist with expertise in RF and fiber technologies, making him a trusted asset in projects requiring advanced communication and network solutions. His dedication and technical knowledge ensure seamless integration and outstanding results in every endeavor.

Newball is a highly skilled professional with over 20 years of experience in customer service, specializing in delivering exceptional support and fostering strong relationships with clients. Fully bilingual in English and Spanish, his ability to connect with diverse clientele enhances his effectiveness in meeting their needs.

Shotoku Announces Leadership Developments 

Leadership is developing at Shotoku Broadcast Systems. The international manufacturer of easy-to-use and reliable robotic and manual camera support systems has announced significant changes in its product and sales management team. Clive Mumby has assumed the role of robotics product manager and Vishal Kagdada has stepped into Mumby’s former role as sales manager.  

Following seven years as Shotoku’s sales manager, Mumby is stepping into his new role. His 30-plus year career in both commercial and operational television environments, including tenures with international broadcasters and multiple broadcast equipment vendors, positions him perfectly to drive Shotoku’s ongoing product development.

Kagdada who joined Shotoku as technical sales manager in 2021 with a background in broadcast systems integration as well as the manufacture of precision engineering systems outside the broadcast market, plays an even greater role in supporting and growing Shotoku’s global customer base, drawn from some of the highest profile national and international broadcasters and governments.  

Company News

Exertis Almo Named National Distributor for MuxLab Professional Signal Distribution Solutions

Exertis Almo has been named Top National Distributor for MuxLab professional signal distribution solutions. Through this newly expanded relationship, Exertis Almo’s channel partners now have access to MuxLab’s complete portfolio of professional signal distribution products for Pro AV, AVoIP, Broadcast, Video Conferencing and Digital Signage, along with enhanced marketing, sales and support engagement to benefit the network.

Featured MuxLab Solutions available through Exertis Almo include:

• Muximus Control Software Solution: A fully customizable integrator control platform, which includes AVoIP, Digital Signage, Dante Audio, 3rd party devices and the MuxControl integrator interface designer to create end user tablet experiences.
• Seamless AVoIP Transceivers (4K30-4K60): The HDMI-over-IP PoE seamless transceivers are designed for AV streaming over LAN, WiFi and Internet. Designed for Commercial and Residential AV, Classroom Projector, Digital Signage, Boardroom, and Medical Information Systems.
•  KVM Control Room Solutions: Enables a single operator to control multiple computers in a control room environment using one keyboard, mouse, and monitor, switching seamlessly between different sources.

Starin's Big Week

Starin, The Farm AV, and Toolfarm will now operate under the global Midwich brand. This strategic alignment reflects the unified vision of these leading organizations to provide technology solutions to their partners and clients.

The rebranding signifies the culmination of a collaborative journey between these industry innovators, streamlining resources and expertise under the Midwich Group’s umbrella. Together, they aim to provide unparalleled service and support to integrators, resellers, and technology professionals, enhancing their ability to address evolving market demands.

Midwich will continue to focus on building profitable revenue and market share across three hardware technology growth pillars in the U.S.: unified communications and collaboration (UCC), media and entertainment, and integrated audio complementing this portfolio with recurring revenue solutions and services.

Starin also announced a new partnership with Absen. This strategic collaboration expands Starin’s product portfolio and delivering advanced LED solutions to the North American market. Together, Starin and Absen are poised to meet the increasing demand for LED technology, providing customers with innovative solutions, support, and a commitment to excellence. This partnership underscores Starin’s dedication to leading the AV industry and addressing the evolving needs of its clients.

“We are committed to serving our customers by recognizing and addressing their needs in this dynamic market segment,” said Tyler Brebberman, VP business management, Starin. “Partnering with Absen allows us to offer comprehensive LED solutions, aligning with our mission to deliver impactful, high-quality products that drive success for our clients.”

Audinate Announces New Partnerships

Heading into ISE 2025, Audinate announced that Sennheiser, Symetrix, and Powersoft have joined as new partners adopting Dante Media Encryption into Dante-enabled products. Dante Media Encryption protects the content of Dante media flows between devices using strong AES-256 encryption, safeguarding media from interception or unauthorized access.

Dante Media Encryption can be enabled via a firmware update for many existing Dante devices. Dante Media Encryption capabilities are fully compatible between updated devices in managed Dante networks.

 “We are pleased to partner with Audinate to bring Dante Media Encryption to market,” says Charlie Jones, senior partner relations manager, business communications, Sennheiser. “As an independent 3rd party working with over 600 manufacturers, Audinate is uniquely positioned in the industry to provide a manufacturer-agnostic, interoperable encryption solution that customers desire.” 

DigiValet Announces New Integration With Crestron Control Systems

DigiValet's hospitality solutions are now fully integrated with control systems from Crestron. This integration combines DigiValet’s guest experience solutions with advanced control and automation products from Crestron.

DigiValet’s tablet-based guest room solutions are installed in guest rooms at hotels across the globe, including Wynn Las Vegas, Raffles Singapore, Bulgari Paris, and St. Regis Maldives.

DigiValet offers comprehensive guest engagement and control, including lighting, shading, HVAC, hospitality television (including IPTV and OTT services), in-room dining ordering and PoS, housekeeping service requests through job dispatch systems, restaurant and spa reservation, and personalized messages and promotions.

LG and BrightSign Announce Alliance, Launch Integrated Digital Signage Solution

LG Electronics and BrightSign announced a collaboration resulting in a new series of LG ultra-high definition (UHD) digital signage displays running BrightSignOS. These displays will be available to U.S. customers in the second quarter of 2025, with international markets following.

The new LG 49, 55, and 65-inch UV5N series models will run the trusted BrightSignOS on LG’s powerful, embedded system-on-a-chip (SoC) multi-core processor. These displays are designed to transform content delivery and offer a wide variety of BrightSign partner content management system (CMS) solutions. They cater to a range of vertical markets, including transportation, retail, museums, hospitality, corporate, education, and healthcare. Businesses across industries are seeking to take control of content, create engaging customer experiences, and optimize the potential of signage applications. These true-integration signage solutions provide end users with real-time access to both BrightSignOS and the display.

Rise Announces Launch of Rise AV

Rise has launched Rise AV. Rise AV will build on the success of Rise Women in Broadcast (WIB), which was established in 2017 in the broadcast and media industry. With over 3,000 members worldwide, Rise has supported many women, advocates, and companies in technical, engineering, operations, marketing, sales, and executive roles through its programs.

The mission of Rise AV is to create an inclusive AV industry where gender diversity thrives, inspiring innovation, equity, and opportunity for all. It will focus on attracting and retaining talent, education and awareness, mentorship, and partnerships. In May 2025, Rise AV will introduce its first initiative in the U.K.—Rise AV Mentoring—a six-month dedicated program Global supporting women’s career and personal development. This will be led by Rise’s award-winning Mentoring Manager, Carla Maroussas.

Rise AV was founded by Rise’s Founder and CEO, Sadie Groom and Rachael Hamilton, who will become managing director. Hamilton has 18 years of experience in the AV sector, having previously been brand director of AV Magazine. She then founded IAR, the AV industry’s first business and marketing consultancy.

VigilLink Announces New Partnership with TecNec Distributing

TecNec Distributing and VigilLink announced a new partnership designed to expand TecNec’s offerings with VigilLink’s innovative AV-over-IP solutions. This collaboration aims to deliver AV products to system integrators, dealers, and rental houses across the Pro AV, broadcast, and pro audio industries. TecNec will distribute VigilLink’s full line of products.

Through this partnership, TecNec will leverage its 30 years of expertise as a premier value-added distributor, providing VigilLink’s innovative fiber optic and AV over IP solutions to its extensive network. VigilLink continues to extend its reach in the Pro AV market, focusing on environments where reliability, speed, efficiency, and security are critical.

Yamaha ProVisionaire Plan Collaborates With XTEN-AV

 Yamaha has announced a collaboration between the company’s new ProVisionaire Plan software, which brings intuitive ease and speed to designing and configuring professional conferencing systems, and XTEN-AV, a cloud-based, AI-powered professional AV design platform.

ProVisionaire Plan is a browser-based tool which allows users to enter basic information, such as the dimensions of a room, then automatically chooses and arranges equipment to deliver an optimal audio solution. The results are presented visually, including a 3D view which allows investors to clearly imagine the system they are investing in.

The new collaboration will see ProVisionaire Plan seamlessly integrated into XTEN-AV's AV TOOLS function. This enables not only product searches, but also the seamless integration of automated equipment selection tailored to specific projects. Providing users with a one-stop experience, it will further accelerate audio system design, reducing overall workload and costs.

Yamaha  launched ProVisionaire Plan, the latest addition to the ProVisionaire suite of sound system management software. Developed to meet the needs of IT systems integrators, Pro AV integrators, VARs/VADs, and end users in corporate and educational markets, the web-based ProVisionaire Plan simplifies audio system planning and design. It removes users' need for acoustic expertise and delivers professional design results. By recommending the optimal products and streamlining the audio solution planning process, it enhances efficiency and strengthens proposal development. 

“ProVisionaire Plan automates the step-by-step design, on-site acoustic phases, management, and operation for any Yamaha ADECIA projects, from system configuration to calibration,” commented Sotaro Nishida, VP of business solutions, Yamaha Corporation of America. “It significantly reduces the workload for proposal preparation and removes barriers for non-audio experts.”

The ProVisionaire software suite creates, manages, and operates sound systems for Yamaha Pro Audio products and complements the ADECIA product line. Users can effortlessly design a system by automatically selecting and configuring ADECIA components, including RM series microphones, PoE ceiling and array speakers, network switches, and remote conference processors. By simply inputting details such as room dimensions, a system can be created with reduced design time. ProVisionaire Plan will expand to support additional Yamaha products in the future.

[What Happened to the AV Department?]

It provides tools for creating customized sound setups tailored to various applications, ranging from entertainment and events to corporate and Pro AV installations. The ProVisionaire software suite is user-friendly, making complex audio configurations accessible even to those without extensive technical expertise and no knowledge of acoustics.  

Via the intuitive web browser, users input room dimensions, specify device requirements, set noise sources, define the sound collection area, identify obstacles, and any other owner requests. From these inputs, the ProVisionaire Plan software automatically generates equipment selections and optimally positions them, visualizing results in a 3D model, coverage area, and installation design. This view also ensures that end-users can clearly visualize the systems they are investing in.

[Cloud Power: Wheels Not Included]

ProVisionaire Plan integrates with PV Cloud and collects and uses data generated during system design to automate specific tasks. Remote monitoring capabilities allow users to oversee and manage audio systems anywhere they have internet access. Adding to the collaboration of this new solution, Yamaha’s dedicated Spatial Acoustic Group in Japan, renowned for designing the acoustics of hundreds of spaces worldwide, brings unparalleled expertise in audio equipment and design to the development of ProVisionaire Plan.

While in plain view to AV professionals, ceiling microphones go largely unnoticed by those who benefit from them most. But interactive collaboration and education—coupled with hybrid work and learning models—are making them a must-have technology for organizations and institutions that strive to deliver a natural, no-fuss experience.

Today’s meeting “headquarters” may be a conference room on a corporate campus, but most gatherings now incorporate a hybrid element. This means that remote participants must be able to hear their onsite colleagues clearly, no matter where they are in the space. David Missall, insights manager for consultants at Sennheiser, noted that ceiling microphones provide this capability, while making for a less cluttered conference room.

[Welcome WMAS]

“We are in an era where bad audio is no longer acceptable,” Missall said. “Creating an inclusive meeting experience where everyone can be heard equally, no matter where they’re joining from, is key.”

Ceiling mics also make for a less disruptive meeting experience, noted Mark Donovan, CTS-D, CTS-I, applications engineering manager for professional markets at Audio-Technica. “[There is the] benefit of limiting the participants’ interaction with the technology, which significantly reduces user error as well as removing unnecessary distraction that could disrupt the natural flow of meetings,” he said.

The ability for remote participants to hear their onsite colleagues wherever they happen to be in the conference room is important, argued Vanessa Jensen, market development manager at Shure. Some collaboration participants move around a lot, which necessitates a system that can capture those who are—and are not—sitting at the conference table.

[Wireless Microphone Headaches]

“People want to get up, engage, present, use a whiteboard,” Jensen explained. “The flexibility that ceiling microphones offer is heads and tails above what we could achieve with a standard microphone.”

Improved Features

One notable advancement in ceiling microphone systems is their integration with camera tracking technology. For example, Audio-Technica’s ATND1061 beamforming ceiling array microphone is compatible with many PTZ cameras. “This allows cameras to be directed to the active talker in order to improve the meeting experience for the users,” Donovan said. “These features have become very reliable as the ability to accurately pinpoint voice locations has improved dramatically.”

At Sennheiser, Missall points to beamforming technology as one key advancement in the ceiling microphone category. Capable of adjusting automatically to a room’s acoustics, this tech generates focused pickup patterns that isolate speech from background noise. “This has enhanced audio quality and simplified the user and integration experience,” he said.

There are also continued efforts to block sound from outside the desired coverage area so meeting participants aren’t distracted by noise, such as closing doors or shuffling papers. Jensen points to features that Shure offers, such as advanced noise filtering, speech gating threshold, and virtual acoustic boundary, all of which aim to improve the performance of its MXA products. Plus, automatic nonlinear processing and automatic noise reduction—which change dynamically with the environment—improve audio performance in the conference room itself.

“It gives us the ability to have really high-quality audio in that particular coverage area, and we’re ignoring things that are outside of that coverage area,” she said. “We’re blocking it so people on the far end aren’t hearing it, and they can really focus on the conversation.”

Deployments and Alternatives

In applications requiring only three or four mics, Donovan recognizes that wired analog microphone systems may be less costly. However, for larger-scale installations—or those requiring wireless capability—he maintained that ceiling mics may be less expensive and easier to integrate. “Most ceiling arrays require only a network connection, which can vastly simplify infrastructure and labor when compared to analog wired solutions,” he said.

[SCN Hybrid World: Out of Sight Sound]

Ceiling microphones can cost more than tabletop mics, Missall acknowledged, but he encouraged integrators to consider the long-term benefits. Once again, because they are positioned where people can’t reach them, they’re not exposed to repetitive handling, which cuts down on wear and tear, as well as maintenance.

According to Donovan, the primary concern when deploying ceiling microphones should be placement. “While array microphones can pick up extremely well at longer distances within their coverage radius, mounting a ceiling array too high will begin to limit the coverage area, possibly requiring more microphones,” he explained.

He also encouraged integrators to take camera tracking into account, since location accuracy capabilities decrease as meeting participants move further away from ceiling microphones. For example, while it may be easy to capture a headshot of an individual meeting participant at three meters, a wide-angle shot may be required at five meters.

As enterprise-level organizations continue to adopt AI to improve their business performance, high-quality audio will continue to be a top priority. “As we move towards AI-driven tools in the workplace—solutions like Copilot, for example—ceiling microphones are really great in terms of being able to capture the clear, intelligible audio that is going to enable more accurate transcription, captioning, and so on,” Jensen said. “Thinking about the future and where we are all headed as employees, I think, will help guide you to the right solution.”

Ceiling Mics for Medical Simulations

Ceiling microphones need not be restricted to conference spaces. Takeshi Senoo, director of product marketing at Yamaha, noted that applications where it’s impractical for users to be holding a mic are good candidates for these products, such as lecture halls and training spaces.

Senoo cited a deployment at the Centre for Advanced Medical Simulation at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. The 6,000-square-foot facility houses a variety of immersive learning spaces where instructors present aspiring healthcare and medical professionals with real-world scenarios, so they can learn how to respond quickly and safely while under pressure.

Skills are practiced on mannequins—audio and video signals from the simulation rooms are fed to the control rooms, where operators manipulate the mannequins remotely based on what they are hearing and seeing. Operators also deliver instructions to the teachers in the simulation rooms via in-ear microphones as the scenario plays out.

In one of its large simulation rooms, NAIT upgraded to a Yamaha RM-CG ceiling array microphone for more intelligible audio. Previously, the space featured two small puck mics that were mounted on the 12-foot-high ceiling. This was limiting, since the mics could only capture the sound that was directly underneath. Plus, because the sessions are often noisy, participants had a hard time hearing what was going on, which led to slower response times and a less realistic simulation.

Featuring multi-beam tracking, the RG-CG, which is integrated with the room's existing Biamp system, allows for a variety of room layouts such as an operating room or a neonatal intensive care unit. According to Yamaha, NAIT is currently developing plans to deploy the RG-CG across all its simulation spaces.

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.”

At the heart of Kani, a city located in the south-central Gifu Prefecture of Japan, lies the Kani City Cultural Creation Center. The main theater of the Kani City Cultural Creation Center is designed primarily for live theatrical performances with an acoustic reflection pattern that has a short reverberation time of about 1.6 seconds. The acoustic and audio engineers recently elevated the audio experience with a Yamaha Active Field Control (AFC) Immersive Audio System that would transfer audio over a Dante network.

Built to serve as the city’s civic focal point, the Kani City Cultural Creation Center doesn’t think of itself as an arts center but as a "human home" filled with people's memories and promotes socially inclusive theater management that fosters connections. The venue was built to present civic activities, including large-scale performances that involve local talent, community-building workshops, and nurturing performing artists and community arts workers. In early 2024, the venue hosted an event in which contemporary dance was performed to an orchestral accompaniment. The performance involved dancers on stage while the orchestra was seated in an orchestra pit at the front of the stage that was raised from the pit floor to stage level at different times in the performance. 

[The Evolution of Virtualized Production]

The event challenged the venue staff to find a way to enhance the experience for the audience as the theater’s acoustic reflectors and additional curtain decorations used in the performance would significantly absorb the sound and not provide a rich, reverberant and immersive atmosphere. This is where the Yamaha and Dante system enhances the experience. 

“The AFC system is based on the assumption that all signals, from the AFC engine and digital mixer to the processor, are exchanged via Dante,” said Hayato Ikeda, a sound engineer with the Kani City Cultural Creation Center. “This theater has permanent audio equipment that is fully compatible with Dante, from the Yamaha digital mixer to the power amplifiers, so we were able to make the decision to give AFC a try."

The detailed, dimensional regenerative electronic reverberation control capabilities of Yamaha’s AFC Enhance were used in the theater to create acoustic spaces in which acoustic images were positioned and controlled by AFC Image. For AFC Enhance, two rows of four microphones were hung from the ceiling to collect the natural sound in the theater, and Ikeda used that sound to process and create a consistent resonance throughout the room regardless of the orchestra pit position. For AFC Image, 37 microphones were set up in the orchestra pit, and seven boundary microphones were mounted on stage for the dancers. The microphones in the pit were mainly targeted at string instruments and reinforced the parts of the performance where the sound of string instruments has difficulty reaching the audience when the orchestra pit is lowered. The microphone inputs were passed to a Yamaha QL5 digital mixer for EQ before being sent to the AFC engine for spatial processing before being amplified through 37 NEXO speakers installed throughout the theater.

[We Checked out the Omega Mart During InfoComm... and Had Our Minds Blown]

The effect of the spatial audio experience delivered during the performance was transformative and sounded very natural—so natural that when Ikeda turned off AFC Enhance during practices, it felt “strange.” There were also no complaints from the musicians and the maestro, who were very strict about sound quality, which was an endorsement of its own.

“We made full use of Dante during the show, transmitting data from all 52 microphones through the Dante-enabled Yamaha digital mixers and the AFC engine and out to the amplifiers,” said Ikeda. “This performance would have been virtually impossible without Dante.”

The hybrid world keeps turning and meeting equity has been a major focus. Originally, the concept was to get videoconferencing just right with multiple pieces of Pro AV gear—like PTZ cameras, speakerphones, and ceiling mics—bringing remote participants into meetings no matter where they were. But what if there was a way to get all that in one device?

The videobar provides that all-in-one solution and has become one of hybrid's biggest trends. The reason? The simple answer is … simplicity.

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

"With the rise of hybrid work, organizations need video collaboration in as many spaces as possible, and videobars are solutions that are easy to deploy," explained Sam Kennedy, senior director of product marketing, Crestron. “For most bars, all one needs to do is plug in the power, Ethernet, controller, and monitor. Solutions like that—which are repeatable at scale—simplify the process of bringing connectivity and collaboration into every meeting space.”

There are a lot of videobars to choose from, so it's important to remember not all are created equal; some are for huddle rooms, while others are designed for larger boardrooms. So, which is the right videobar for your next installation?

Conference Room in a Box

There are quite a few advantages in selecting a videobar for the current hybrid landscape. As Boom co-founder Fredrik Hörnkvist explained, videobars are literally conferencing in a box.

"They combine a camera, microphone, and speakers in a single unit, simplifying setup and reducing clutter in meeting spaces," added Hal Truax, president, commercial division of WyreStorm. "This integration is ideal for remote communication and virtual meetings, making them a preferred choice in the evolving landscape of workplace communication."

That doesn't mean videobars are 100% the answer for everyone, as they do come with some disadvantages. "As a static device, they are not always ideally suited to larger rooms or multipurpose environments, where people can be sat further away," Hörnkvist observed. "Not all offer the ability of expandable audio. We sometimes recommend a PTZ camera instead for larger rooms."

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

Advances like the Owl Labs ecosystem are reasons to believe that these disadvantages will improve in the not-so-distant future. "Videobars are, unfortunately, often only placed at the front of the room, making everyone in the meeting look small and clumped together,” said Ben Macdonald, vice president of global sales and channels at Owl Labs. "Everyone joining remotely feels like they aren’t a part of the conversation. When our Owl Bar is paired with the Meeting Owl, you have a front-of-room and center-of-room camera that covers almost the entire meeting space. This helps conversations flow better and allows everyone to feel included.”

"While the disadvantage can be lack of options that address unique organizational needs, continued innovation has successfully addressed this challenge," added Nathan Coutinho, head of analyst relations and business strategy at Logitech. “From the use of AI for improved call quality to offering a variety of sizes and pricing to building products with sustainability in mind, the videoconferencing product experience is elevated to offer mostly benefits and make the purchasing decision tailored and easier. Today’s portfolio of products addresses the core challenges of a videoconferencing solution that is easy to manage and that creates an equitable experience for all participants regardless of where in the room they sit or if they are joining remotely."

AI and Other Features

A videobar has the same goal as any hybrid conferencing solution: Enable all participants to see and be seen and hear and be heard. Thus, most manufacturers and videoconferencing experts agree that video and audio quality is top of mind. It is also important to remember that size matters.

[I Love It Loud]

"Room aesthetics play a part, but ultimately a videobar has to deliver in terms of visual and audio performance," Hörnkvist said. "A high-capacity lens, powerful speakers, and mics are needed for larger rooms."

"The choice depends on the specific needs of the user and the meeting space,” Truax said. “Larger videobars may offer better audio quality and wider camera coverage, suitable for big conference rooms. Smaller ones are ideal for personal use or small meeting spaces and huddle rooms where portability and space-saving are priorities.”

While ensuring that an inclusive conferencing space is established via the technology within the videobar, it is also important to consider the size of the room and where the videobar will be installed—not simply the location in the room, but if it will be attached to a display or rest on a tabletop—because mounting options become pivotal at that point.

"Something one might overlook is cloud vendors’ support of Android versus Windows," Kennedy added. "Typically, Microsoft brings more advanced features to Windows first, so if you’re looking to deploy the 'latest and greatest,' consider a Windows solution. If you're looking for a quick, super-simple solution, Android bars make a lot of sense." Kennedy also reminded potential buyers to make sure the videobar has the right inputs and outputs for the space.

And, of course, what is a Pro AV discussion without looking at artificial intelligence. "Like other products and industries, videoconferencing equipment has exciting opportunities to reimagine how we connect with each other through strategic implementation of AI,” Coutinho said.

“Our research shows that employees are open to increased use of AI in the workplace," Macdonald said. "Our 2023 State of Hybrid Work survey found that 44% of workers believe generative AI will help them do their jobs faster and more effectively in the next five years.”

"AI is becoming increasingly important in videobars for intelligently enhancing both video and audio quality," Truax added. "AI can enable features like auto-framing, voice tracking, noise reduction, and lighting adjustment, significantly improving the overall meeting experience."

[SCN Hybrid World Review: Biamp Helps You Read the Room]

So which videobar fits best in your hybrid workspace? With so many out there from which to choose, SCN has compiled a list of 16 videobars on the following pages to get you started.

AVer VB350

The VB350 was designed to capture all attendees in a meeting while enhancing seamless conversation. The videobar combines dual 4K lenses, 113-degree field of view, and an optical 18x zoom to capture sharp, detailed images of wide and deep viewing angles. AVer’s built-in SmartFrame technology centers meeting participants from up to 22 feet away. It also features Presentation Tracking and Conversation View—the former locates and frames the area around a speaker, while the latter tracks the speaker in real time, smoothly transitioning as new participants enter the meeting and creating a more engaging, immersive experience.

Barco ClickShare Bar

Barco’s new ClickShare Bar enables wireless conferencing in small to medium-sized meeting rooms. Available in two models, it brings ease of installation, a reduced total cost of ownership, and flexibility to the meeting room. The ClickShare Bar Core combines essential collaboration functionalities with high-quality audio and video. The ClickShare Bar Pro adds extra functionalities like advanced AI speaker framing, interactivity features (touchback, annotation, and blackboarding), and a wired room dock for 4K content sharing and alternative connectivity. It also supports dual-screen configurations, allowing people and content to be shown side by side on two displays.

Biamp Parlé VBC 2500a

The Parlé VBC 2500a is an all-in-one, professional-grade videobar for huddle, small, and medium-sized conferencing rooms. It includes a wide-angle 4K PTZ camera with high-quality optics along with auto-framing and auto-focus technology to identify meeting participants and adjust the focus and zoom as attendees move about the space. For audio, the VBC 2500a features a 27-element Beamtracking microphone array across three zones to actively track and intelligently mix conversations. For easy setup, the Launch software automatically determines the acoustics of the room and then optimizes the performance of the bar at the touch of a button. For individuals requiring hearing assistance, the VBC 2500a is compatible with assistive listening systems via a dedicated 3.5mm output connector.

Boom HALO

This all-in-one solution was designed with larger rooms in mind. The Boom HALO features a 4K UHD camera, six microphone array, and high-fidelity speakers for smooth and seamless collaboration. Available in white and black, it boasts many advanced features such as facial recognition, speaker tracking, intelligent noise reduction, and AI auto-framing. Additional ports allow for audio expansion for flexible rooms and growing teams. A 120-degree wide angle field of view, 10x zoom, smart mic array, and 8 MP CMOS sensor ensure an enhanced meeting experience for a variety of spaces. Dual 10-watt speakers and a 48kHz sampling rate provide lossless audio and full spectrum sound for meeting participants.

Bose Professional Videobar VB-S

The Bose Professional Videobar VB-S installs quickly and easily to deliver enhanced performance. With signature Bose Professional audio and a 4K camera, the VB-S delivers a high-quality meeting experience. Featuring a beamforming array of four microphones, which automatically focuses on voices in the room and reduces noise, the camera provides two auto-framing modes—Group and Individual—for sharp video and a wide field of view, ensuring remote participants feel like they’re in the room. Its simple, in-box mounting options, low-profile design, and USB plug-and-play functionality make installation and operation a breeze.

 Crestron Videobar 70

Crestron Videobar 70 is the company’s first all-in-one collaboration bar, extending the options available in the Crestron Flex portfolio. Combining intelligent video, high-quality audio, and Android OS into a single form factor, Crestron Videobar 70 makes it easy to add engaging and productive hybrid meetings to medium and large spaces. Specialized microphone arrays are built into the bar to accurately detect where the audio is coming from—both in distance and direction—for accurate speaker tracking. Purposely designed with beamforming microphones that cover a wider frequency range, the Videobar 70 provides enhanced noise-reduction and increased speech perception.

DTEN Bar with DTEN Mate

The new DTEN Bar is a complete videoconferencing solution designed for small meeting spaces (up to 15 square feet) while accommodating up to seven participants. The small room solution, which can be used with any display, includes the all-in-one DTEN Bar paired with the DTEN Mate tabletop meeting controller. It delivers AI-powered audio and video, combined with simplicity of deployment, use, and management, and flexibility to meet the needs of various room configurations, with a center camera that can be mounted horizontally or vertically (see above). The solution is BYOD capable and is certified for Zoom Rooms (with Microsoft Teams certification expected later this year).

 EPOS EXPAND Vision 5

The EPOS EXPAND Vision 5 is an all-in-one videobar designed to elevate videoconferencing experiences for small and medium-sized meeting rooms. Certified for Microsoft Teams Rooms on Android and Zoom Rooms, the Vision 5 empowers frictionless calls and effective collaboration. Intelligent picture framing powered by EPOS AI adjusts to include all people in the room, while a wide-angle 4K camera with Sony sensors and electromechanical pan/tilt ensures optimal room coverage. Stereo speakers and beamforming microphones guarantee crisp voice pickup as well as effective noise and echo cancellation. Leveraging algorithms and acoustics thanks to EPOS’ BrainAdapt technology, the EXPAND Vision 5 helps the brain focus and orient while in hybrid meetings. Direct USB connection to a PC or Mac lets participants bring their own device (BYOD) and run any UC solution from their laptop.

Jabra PanaCast 50

With its AI-powered, software-defined platform, the Jabra PanaCast 50 Video Bar System is designed to adapt to evolving UC experiences and hybrid workplace needs in any small to medium-sized room. It comes with enterprise-grade security, including encryption on the device through Bluetooth, wired Ethernet, and Wi-Fi (WPA-2 personal and enterprise). The solution also meets the strict security requirements of Microsoft Teams Rooms and Zoom Rooms. The system includes an integrated videobar with speakers, microphones, camera, and Android UC processing power, as well as a 10.1-inch touch controller. It is easy to install, manage, and use, with one-touch start/join.

Logitech Rally Bar Huddle

Logitech Rally Bar Huddle is an all-in-one, appliance-based videobar for huddle spaces and other small rooms. Designed to deliver equitable videoconferencing meetings, it is quick to set up, simple to manage, and easy to integrate with Tap IP through CollabOS. Rally Bar Huddle builds on existing Rally videoconferencing cameras by offering an option for smaller meeting rooms of up to six people and the ability to mount via table, wall, and display.

MAXHUB UC S07

Microsoft Teams certified, the UC S07 facilitates easy setup and operation. Its 4K camera allows for full HD video up to 30fps with a 120-degree field of view, and its Auto Frame feature enables intelligent face detection. The system uses a six-element microphone with a voice pickup range of up to 26 feet, and includes both an 8-watt loudspeaker and a 3-watt low frequency transducer to ensure crystal-clear audio performance with rich low end. The UC S07 is a plug-and-play solution for easy operation and provides connectivity via its USB-C connector, allowing for BYOD functionality.

Owl Bar

The Owl Bar is a standalone front-of-room camera, microphone, and speaker that also pairs with the Meeting Owl device and Whiteboard Owl camera to make hybrid meetings even more immersive. The Owl Bar works wirelessly with a 360-degree, center-of-the-room camera for a complete front-and-center videoconferencing experience. The Owl Labs ecosystem uses its proprietary, AI-powered software to automatically switch between cameras to capture the best view of in-room attendees, enabling more natural face-to-face conversations between in-person and remote participants.

 Poly Studio X52

The Poly Studio X52 videobar is specifically designed for hybrid meeting environments. It simplifies and enhances meetings in mid-sized meeting spaces by ensuring equal participation for both in-room and remote participants. With 20 MP 4K 95-degree FOV camera and innovative audio and video capabilities such as Poly NoiseBlockAI, Acoustic Fence, and Poly DirectorAI smart camera technology, users can expect a premium hybrid meeting experience. The all-in-one design makes setup quick and easy, while users have the flexibility to join the cloud-based video provider of their choice. Plus, IT professionals can remotely monitor and troubleshoot devices with the Poly Lens App.

WolfVision Cynap Videobar

The WolfVision Cynap Videobar is an all-in-one wireless presentation, web conferencing, and collaboration system for meeting rooms. It combines Cynap BYOD wireless presentation technology together with a 4K AI camera, beamforming array microphone with WolfVision Advanced Voice-Processing Engine (WAVE), plus premium-quality speaker system from audio specialist Fohhn. Platform-agnostic BYOM web conferencing functionality enables users to connect wirelessly to the Cynap Videobar and run hybrid meetings directly from a laptop. Whiteboard and annotation tools, a room booking module, and cloud-based remote management software are also included. The Cynap Videobar is suitable for up to 10 people in small or medium-sized hybrid meeting rooms and huddle spaces.

WyreStorm Apollo VX20

The Apollo VX20 seamlessly integrates a video switcher, speakerphone, and camera into a singular, efficient device. Designed for the diverse demands of modern meeting spaces, the VX20 has HDMI and USB-C inputs as well as wireless casting capabilities from Airplay and Miracast devices. A 4K camera comes equipped with advanced functionalities like presenter tracking and AI-assisted adaptive lighting. Additionally, its stereo speakers and expandable microphone capabilities deliver an immersive, room-filling sound, ensuring a clear and precise audio and speech experience for all the users.

Yamaha CS-800

Collaborate and connect easily with the Yamaha CS-800, a video soundbar equipped with a 4K camera, Hexa beamforming microphone, and full-range speaker for comfortable and productive remote meetings in huddle rooms and offices. Using the positioning data provided from both the voice and camera pickup, Yamaha's new SoundCap Eye AI technology pinpoints participant's locations and blocks out unwanted background noise in potentially noisy environments, ensuring that everyone in the room can be heard clearly by the participants on the far end of the call.

Kindermann GmbH is establishing a worldwide certification program for its universal Bring Your Own Meeting (BYOM) and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) solution Klick&Show K-FX. The intention is to offer customers solutions for hybrid meetings, videoconferencing and collaboration that are perfectly matched to each other. To ensure this, the interaction of the products is extensively tested for compatibility both at Kindermann and their partners.

To kick off the program, Kindermann presents its first official Klick&Show K-FX partner: Yamaha Music Europe GmbH. As a first step, the two new Video Collaboration Systems from Yamaha, CS-800 and CS-500, as well as the all-in-one ADECIA audio solutions for conferencing were certified for Klick&Show K-FX all across Europe.

[12 All-in-one Videoconferencing Solutions] 

Video Collaboration Systems Even for Open Spaces

The Yamaha CS-500 and CS-800 use the latest AI technology to combine voice and video data, enabling precise, hybrid collaboration in real time. In doing so, Yamaha's newly developed SoundCap Eye technology localizes the positions of participants, reduces distracting background noise and adjusts the volume. In addition to these features, the Yamaha CS-800 is an all-in-one video sound bar that also offers an integrated 90 dBSPL (1m) speaker, ensuring the best sound quality in the meeting space.

[Yamaha CS-800 Video Collaboration System Now Certified for Microsoft Teams]

Professional Audio Solutions for Best Sound Quality

Yamaha's Dante based ADECIA solution family can be used in three different variants—ceiling, wireless and tabletop solutions—and combines a whole range of microphones and speakers into a complete solution for the best audio quality in conference rooms. The RM-CR conference processor provides the best connectivity by automatically detecting microphones and speakers on the same network and adjusting the optimal sound settings regarding to the used room.

In combination with Klick&Show K-FX, these devices can be operated comfortably in the sense of BYOM. Thanks to USB-over-Wi-Fi for conferencing, the devices can be connected to the Klick&Show K-FX via USB and used wirelessly with the notebook. Four USB ports (one Type-C, three Type-A) are available on the back of the Klick&Show K-FX base unit for this purpose. It supports the transmission of camera images in full HD resolution (1920x1080p) at 30 fps for excellent image quality in video conferences.

For trial attorneys, practice is the lifeblood of success. They meticulously refine every aspect of a case through relentless repetition. While hotel conference rooms have long been the go-to choice for trial preparations, they fail to capture the essence of a real courtroom environment. Imagine a football player practicing on synthetic turf, ill-prepared for the game played on the grass.

After months of devoted work and detailed planning, MLG Attorneys at Law, located in Costa Mesa, California, proudly unveiled the Supreme Court Justice Carlos R. Moreno Courtroom. This achievement is more than just a project completion; it is the realization of a 25-year dream, passionately pursued and ultimately fulfilled by MLG Principal Jonathan Michaels.

Down to the Last Detail

Constructed to mirror a real courtroom down to the last detail, this cutting-edge mock courtroom is more than just a space. It's an experience. By accurately capturing all the tactile elements of a real courtroom, it offers trial attorneys an authentic and tangible environment to rigorously refine their skills. It isn't just about bridging a gap—it's about completely redefining the way trial preparations are carried out, marking the dawn of a new era in litigation practice.

"We wanted to create an environment that doesn’t just mimic, but essentially replicates the real-world experience of trial proceedings," said Michaels. "We needed a space that was not just about aesthetics, but also functionality and technological proficiency. That's why we embedded advanced AV technology in every aspect of the courtroom design."

The technical aspects of the project were handled by MLG’s director of Information Technology, Harpartaap Sidhu. As an experienced IT professional, Sidhu faced the challenge of integrating modern technology into a setting that needed to maintain the authenticity of a traditional courtroom. The balance he sought to strike involved the incorporation of features such as high-quality video, real-time recording, and secure live-streaming capabilities without these elements being obtrusive or detracting from the realistic courtroom environment. Maintaining the integrity of the setting while enhancing its functionality was a significant part of this task. It was not without its hurdles.

“We were threading the needle,” said Sidhu. “Our aim was to make technology an enabler, not a disruptor.”

Forensic Media

When it came time to select the necessary video technology for the project, the firm didn't have to look far. Already on staff was a highly skilled team of forensic media specialists, typically tasked with creating high-quality "day in the life" videos often used in litigation and producing extremely detailed crash reconstruction animations. The in-house team included senior forensic videographer Jake Rascon, senior forensic animator Bill Mings, forensic animator Vince Ibarra, forensic editor Xander Tillou, and forensic technician Ray Pontanillo.

“The heart of our setup is the Avipass camera system," Sidhu said. "Six cameras, streaming in 4K resolution, provide a comprehensive view of the entire courtroom. These power over ethernet (PoE) devices are isolated on a local area network (LAN) with no outgoing or incoming internet traffic." The Avipas AV-1281, a PTZ camera with a 10x optical zoom, was the camera of choice. It offers a comprehensive angle of view, ranging from 6.4 to 61 degrees and a pan rotation range of up to 170 degrees, operating at up to 1080p at 60 frames over the HDMI interface—or 1080p at 30 frames over the RJ45 connector interface (PoE).

The cameras are cabled from the courtroom into a state-of-the-art control room from over the ceiling tile. These cameras are both uplinked via RJ45 for PoE as well as HDMI. The camera HDMIs are linked into a Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini Extreme, which serves as the production switcher for live streaming and recording. The ATEM Mini is connected to the Windows 11 laptop via USB-C interface. It comes with its own software where the AV team can sign in to streaming platforms such as YouTube, Facebook Live, Skype, Twitch, Zoom, Microsoft Teams and anything that will support RTMP protocols.

Keeping Control

The control room is where all the technology in the courtroom comes together. At the helm of audio control is the Shure Pro FX-16, a 16-channel mixer. This sophisticated device has been configured to regulate the four Audix M70 ceiling microphones and eight Sonance ceiling speakers, ensuring crystal-clear audio transmission and reception.

Complementing the advanced mixer setup, the Yamaha RX-V385 natural sound receiver is another key component of the control room's tech stack. This high-performance AV receiver goes beyond simple audio transmission; it also feeds video and airplay to all three TVs in the courtroom concurrently, delivering a fully synchronized and immersive experience.

Achieving seamless technical integration within the traditional office infrastructure was not without challenges. "Wiring was the trickiest part of the project," admits Sidhu. "We had to integrate modern, high-speed ethernet cabling into an established office environment, keeping aesthetics and functionality intact. But all this effort pays off when you see the capabilities, especially the ease of live streaming."

Live streaming was a core component of the project's vision. "In an increasingly connected world, we knew we had to go beyond the confines of the physical space," said Sidhu. "Live streaming allows us to extend the courtroom experience to our remote offices and facilitates real-time collaboration and learning."

Thoroughly Prepared

With the right equipment in place and a dedicated team leveraging their technical skills, the Supreme Court Justice Carlos R. Moreno Courtroom at MLG Attorneys at Law now stands as a testament to the power of combining technology with legal practice. It's not just a courtroom; it's a platform for trial attorneys to hone their skills, deepen their understanding of the case at hand, and ultimately, deliver justice for their clients.

According to Michaels, the exceptional transparency opens new avenues for attorneys and clients based remotely. "Having the ability to view proceedings live, to scrutinize reactions, and provide feedback in real-time is an invaluable tool. This interactive engagement allows our on-site attorneys to adjust and refine their strategies on the spot," he explained. "Such immediate collaboration not only enhances the potency of our trial preparations but also introduces a previously absent immediacy and relevance to the entire process."

Building the courtroom within the firm’s existing office space was also a conscious decision. Michaels insisted on having the courtroom within arm's reach. "Attorneys should be able to walk in and conduct mock trials, arrange focus groups, or test new approaches at their convenience. Proximity to our team enhances the utility and value of the space,” said Michaels. In the mock courtroom’s infancy, MLG has already conducted more than ten mock trials in the first month, which is more than they would typically do in a year.

The naming of the courtroom is a tribute to retired California Supreme Court Justice Carlos R. Moreno. His career has been a source of inspiration and a beacon of dedication to justice, principles which are at the heart of MLG Attorneys at Law.  Justice Moreno also recognizes the importance of thorough preparation and composure among attorneys in the courtroom.

“As a judge, I've seen the value of 'courtroom comfort'—a level of ease and familiarity attorneys have when the courtroom feels like their own turf,” said Justice Moreno. “I eagerly anticipate the future generation of attorneys and young law students leveraging this dynamic space to hone their skills and nurture their courtroom confidence."

Blackwire Designs has designed and deployed its Yamaha MTX Universal Driver, which allows installers to utilize both the Yamaha MTX3 and MTX5-D audio processors with Control4 systems. The easy-to-install driver not only controls an MTX processor like any other audio matrix, but it is also the only solution that includes a customizable mixer interface that enables end users to control the level and mix of each input across multiple zone outputs.

[Blackwire Designs Makes InfoComm Debut]

"From retail stores, restaurants, bars, and banquet rooms to schools, conference rooms, and houses of worship, the MTX series covers a wide variety of applications thanks to its flexible processing functions," said Kevin Luther, owner of Blackwire Designs. "Now, installers can easily and quickly create a fully custom mixing interface that is specifically tailored to the client's needs. In turn, any user of the system can easily mix the audio, trigger custom programming, and adjust the zone and group levels without leaving the native Control4 interface. This driver takes the complexity out of large installations and focuses on the experience and ease of operation for the end user. As one of the only value-added distributors that designs drivers for control systems, Blackwire is eager to provide this unique solution to our many customers on a much larger scale."

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

The MTX driver also includes customizable UI buttons and support for both stereo and mono inputs and zones. In Control4 Composer, system designers can customize buttons with colors and graphics for easy identification, with custom sliders to quickly set input levels and mute statuses. The driver works with current Control4 OS versions 3.1.3 and up as well as Control4 T4 touch screens, iPad, and Android interfaces.

The Yamaha Unified Communications CS-800 Video Sound Bar has been Certified for Microsoft Teams. An all-in-one system, the CS-800 integrates the microphone, speaker, camera, required for remote conference into one device, providing for a seamless and simple conferencing experience.

“We are excited to continue to add to our portfolio of products certified to work seamlessly with Microsoft Teams,” said Michelle Baeza, director of strategic partnerships at Yamaha Unified Communications. “The unique technologies of the CS-800 offer seamless, uninterrupted collaboration through high-quality audio and video for both in-person and remote participants to deliver the best Microsoft Teams experience, wherever you work.”

[12 All-in-one Videoconferencing Solutions] 

SoundCap Eye technology takes information from the multi-dimensional beamforming microphone array and highly accurate positioning information from the video to focus audio capture on the participants in the meeting. Combined with audio volume controls, this technology makes the CS-800 the ideal solution for focus rooms and small meeting rooms.

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

[InfoComm 2023: XTEN-AV, Yamaha, AtlasIED, Liberty Welcome You to the X-VRSE]

When using the CS-800 with a PC (not within Teams), users can easily launch video calls through a simple HDMI connection. Whether used in a BYOD environment or with installed equipment, the product supports auto wake-up when someone enters the meeting space and provides onscreen guidance regarding how to start the meeting. Additionally, the technology enables companies to add customized images and provide corporate messaging.

Installation methods include tabletop, wall, and display mounting using optional mounting accessories. Other products Certified for Microsoft Teams from Yamaha UC include the ADECIA Ceiling Solution and ADECIA Tabletop Solution.

InfoComm 2023 is here. We've been doing our best to keep you up to date on all there is to see in Orlando this June.   

[InfoComm 2023: 'No Stopping Us Now']

Welcome to the X-VRSE

XTEN-AV has collaborated with Liberty AV Solutions, AtlasIED, and Yamaha as launch partners for X-VRSE, the new Virtual Reality solution by XTEN-AV.

Since its launch XTEN-AV has been striving to automate AV design and documentation by integrating newer technology into its AI-powered platform. X-VRSE proves to be the ultimate step in innovation in AV design. The powerful VR solution, X-VRSE allows users to visualize, experience and customize their designs in an immersive environment. 

X-VRSE elevates the AV designing experience to a whole another level by allowing users to create an immersive environment of the spaces that they have designed. Users can alter room aesthetics, add, position, and change the devices in the room, check coverages, and preview the entire space in real time. A “Bring their own room” feature enables users to bring in their existing designs and experience them in the X-VRSE environment.

X-VRSE speeds up the project turnaround times by allowing AV designers, integrators and sales teams to visualize designs at the primary stages of a project.

In collaboration with Liberty AV Solutions, XTEN-AV will be exclusively showcasing Ashton Bentley products as a part of their VR solution. Updated information about Liberty AV Solutions along with access to the Ashton Bentley product range would facilitate an enhanced experience to its users, on the platform.

“Liberty AV Solutions is a market leader in the AV space and the Ashton Bentley product line-up is one of the most popular ones in the industry. Having Liberty AV Solutions as a launch partner reinstates our belief in creating a powerful VR solution, on XTEN-AV, as the next step,” said Vibhav Singh and Sahil Dhingra, co-founders, XTEN-AV. “X-VRSE is designed to introduce users to cutting edge technology and give them a world-class VR experience.”

Collaboration with a market leader like AtlasIED to enhance this revolutionary technology, equips XTEN-AV to provide an extraordinary experience to its users, on the platform. Updated information about AtlasIED and an access to their extensive product library, in X-VRSE, empowers XTEN-AV users to achieve more with this futuristic upgrade.

“We are excited to launch X-VRSE in partnership with AtlasIED. Adding a groundbreaking VR solution to the XTEN-AV platform was a well-planned next step to make the AV design and proposal software stronger,” said Singh and Dhingra. “This partnership with AtlasIED helps us offer the users with a world-class VR experience and empowers them to create even more comprehensive designs spaces.”

This collaborative venture serves to elevate the technology of X-VRSE, enhance XTEN-AV and provide an unparalleled experience to its users. Onboarding Yamaha as a launch partner provides users with access to Yamaha’s own collaborative products like sound bars, microphones, cameras, speakers, etc. to create stunningly immersive AV designs and experiences.

“The launch of X-VRSE in partnership with Yamaha represents a leap forward within the AV industry, celebrating an era of unprecedented design and visualization possibilities. AV professionals now possess the key to unlocking boundless creativity and unleashing the full potential of their projects, all within the confines of our innovative VR solution.” said Thomas Hemery, Yamaha general manager of global marketing and sales, Professional Solutions Division.

Williams AV to Showcase Assistive Communication Concept Using Bluetooth Auracast

Williams AV will showcase an assistive communication concept Bluetooth Auracast at Booth 3414. This concept, which is not available for purchase, gives attendees a glimpse into the technology and its potential applications in the Pro AV industry.

The new Bluetooth capability, Auracast, was announced by the Bluetooth SIG in June 2022. While the media has widely covered Auracast in consumer markets, coverage of potential applications for the Pro AV market has been light. However, Williams AV believes this technology will create new opportunities for AV professionals and will show a concept Bluetooth Auracast transmitter, receiver, and assistant at the professional audiovisual trade show.

The Bluetooth Auracast platform has many potential benefits, including simultaneously delivering up to 20 audio broadcasts to an unlimited number of people and delivering audio directly to an Auracast receiver, reducing latency and providing high-quality sound. These benefits will help AV professionals provide better audio for those with hearing loss and broadly deliver audio in public spaces. 

InfoComm 2023 attendees can visit the FutureTech Station in the Williams AV to view the assistive communication concept. The station is designed to explain how the Auracast technology works, the various components of an Auracast solution, and an overview of potential use cases. In addition, attendees are encouraged to give feedback on how they see this type of solution used in Pro AV settings.

Da-Lite Adds More Flexibility to SightLine Cable Drop Feature

Da-Lite continues to make it even easier for integrators to solve challenges with the new 10-foot SightLine Cable Drop option available with its Tensioned Advantage and Advantage electric screens, which will be showcased in Legrand | AV Booth 2201. While SightLine's standard 70-inch, aircraft-grade cable drop screen feature covers most custom drop-sizing scenarios, the new 10-foot drop is designed to provide more flexibility for unique installations, such as unusually high ceilings, where additional drop may be required.

SightLine has taken the industry by storm with its innovative approach to eliminating unsightly black drops and creating a screen that appears to float in the room. The single-roller suspension system features three or four thin cables that now accommodate drop distances up to 70 inch (standard) or 10 feet (optional) between the ceiling and the top of the screen. It preserves a room's architectural integrity and creates usable space above the viewing area for components such as Vaddio cameras and/or speakers. With the ability to dial in the exact viewing height on-site, this flexible system makes specifying, ordering, and installing a screen quick and easy. There is no need to calculate the drop distance ahead of time. Additionally, the cable height can be adjusted on-site for any future projector upgrades, allowing end users to maximize their screen investment and cut down on labor.

During the show, Da-Lite will also feature a UTB Contour 21:9 Ultrawide Format fixed-frame screen to demonstrate a more immersive and equitable meeting experience for end users. The brand offers a complete line of electric and fixed-frame screens in 21:9 Ultrawide Format standard part numbers.

Mersive Technologies Makes Setup and Collaboration Faster and Easier for Both Integrators and End Users 

We've already looked at the Solstice Pod for Education, but Mersive will also introduce the latest version of its Solstice collaboration platform, Solstice 6, at Booth 4875 .

Solstice enables users to easily share content from any device to any Solstice-enabled display in a meeting room, huddle space, classroom, or other collaboration environment. Solstice 6 makes deployment more intuitive than ever, meeting IT and AV professionals’ need for a simple out-of-box guided setup experience that gets them up and running fast without compromising configuration options. It also reduces the time required for end users to begin collaborating to mere seconds via web connectivity.

• Solstice 6 Makes Deployment Easy: When the integrator or IT professional first unboxes and plugs in the Solstice Pod, a new guided setup screen and installer tool opens to walk them through network, internet, and Solstice Cloud setup, as well as ensure that each Pod is properly deployed. The installer also automatically whitelists Solstice with Windows Defender so users can get the most out of the Solstice software
• Fast, Simple Collaboration with New Web App: Solstice allows users to use their own devices to collaborate via the Solstice app. However, not every user wants or is able to download an app on their device. Solstice 6 allows users to visit share.mersive.com to wirelessly and securely share content through a web browser without having to download the Solstice app.
• Improved Performance and Stability: Solstice 6 enhancements include support for a broader range of networks, devices, and room types. Mersive has also improved back-end processes that free up CPU and memory usage, so the meeting host has more power and resources available to them while using Solstice 6. 
• More Engaging Dynamic Digital Signage: Solstice 6 transforms Mersive’s digital signage capabilities through a completely customizable web page that is both interactive and dynamically responsive via the use of occupancy sensors, calendar events, or even API calls.

MXL Microphones Introduces New AC83 Bluetooth Microphone

MXL Microphones debuts its new AC83 Bluetooth LE 5.0 Enabled Boundary Microphone at the Marshall Electronics Booth 4107.

With its three-capsule battery design, the AC83 mic picks up direct sound, while simultaneously mitigating indirect sources, delivering optimal audio for every user. The AC83 microphone will capture the audio required over a long period of time, holding up to 36-hours of non-stop battery life.

Ideal for AV integrator and professionals, the AC83 is an excellent addition to any conference room application. Additionally, the new Bluetooth microphone is capable of transmitting sound up to 200-feet in range, offering a great solution for larger conference spaces, lecture halls and more.

Yamaha Unified Communications and Yealink have entered a technology partnership to create innovative and enhanced audio and video collaboration for modern meeting spaces, delivering intelligent and effortless hybrid meeting experience.

[11 Speakerphones for Today's Workspace] 

“We’re very excited to partner with Yealink, a brand that provides exceptional full-line unified communications and collaboration solutions," said Nobuo Ikematsu, senior general manager of information and communication division, Yamaha. "We believe the combination of their cameras with our microphones will achieve high quality video and audio experiences.”

Yamaha’s ADECIA Ceiling Array Microphone RM-CG and Tabletop Array Microphone RM-TT can be combined with Yealink’s intelligent cameras and touch panels to enhance audio and video experience further. The joint solution not only enables Presenter Tracking and Speaker Tracking, but also includes technologies like Adaptive Echo Cancel, Automatic Gain Control, Noise Reduction and Dereverberation to give remote attendees an immersive video and audio experience.  

[Who's Ready for Hybrid?] 

"We believe combining our video solution with Yamaha’s audio solution empowers teams everywhere to collaborate effortlessly,” concluded Alvin Liao, vice president of product at Yealink.

Keeping sensitive conversations protected and private in certain environments is not only essential but part of mandated protocols. This is especially true at the Lowell House Addiction Treatment and Recovery in Lowell, MA. Yamaha Unified Communications has provided an alternative method to mask sound and protect sensitive conversations at the addiction treatment and recovery center. 

Matthew Brown, the chief operating officer of Lowell House, chose to install two VSP-2 control units and sixteen speakers in the building's office hallways and near the front desk. As an addiction treatment and recovery organization, the Lowell House falls under both HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) regulations and 42 CFR Part 2, which mandates the confidentiality of substance abuse disorder patient records, making the installation of the VSP-2 invaluable.

“The VSP-2 Speech Privacy System was designed to protect medical offices from patient confidentiality risk and liability,” said Balazs Boldog CTS, speech privacy consultant and integrator on this project. “Plus, it’s quieter than typical noise machines, creating a more relaxing acoustic environment for patients and doctors.”

[Yamaha UC and 10 More Speakerphones for Today's Workspace]

Available in white or black, the VSP-2 Speech Privacy System consists of a control unit and two compact micro-speakers. Using a custom combination of natural sounds, including Yamaha’s unique Info-Masking technology made from human phonemes, the VSP-2 masks sensitive information at up to 8 dB lower than traditional sound masking systems. The micro speakers are easily installable or can be retrofitted into existing conference rooms using the included mounting solutions without the need to cut through structures.

[Yamaha's ADECIA Solutions Are Certified for Zoom—And That's a Good Thing]

Prior to installing the VSP-2, to combat the risk of information leakage, staff members placed floor speakers playing white noise and other ambient sounds in the outpatient clinic hallway to mask the sensitive conversations happening in offices and at the front desk. With this makeshift solution, speech was protected, but employees found the environment distracting, with multiple speakers emitting crickets and ocean sounds simultaneously.

The VSP-2’s customized combination of environmental sounds and phonemes—units of sound in a specified language that distinguish one word from another—successfully covered Lowell House’s sensitive conversation areas without creating annoying background noise, allowing the removal of Lowell’s previous method, floor speakers.

"The natural sounds from the VSP-2 are loud enough to do what it needs to do but quiet enough to not be distracting," said Brown. "People in the office can’t hear conversations outside, and people in the cubicles can’t hear conversations in the private offices. Plus, removing the floor speakers kept clients from tripping over tangled wires and units.”

[Blueprint for Success: Learn from the Past, Shape Your Future] 

Tuning the VSP-2 for the first time took little effort. The staff quickly found their preferred sound volume and speech privacy levels (overall volume at level five, environment sound at level four, and speech masking sound at level four). The VSP-2 stays powered on each day without any need for adjustment.

After the success of the installation, Brown is now considering adding additional VSP-2 systems outside the conference room, the back hallway, and the executive suite.

Yamaha has announced a new firmware update to its ADECIA family of audio solutions, including RM-CR Audio Processor, RM-CG Ceiling Array Microphones, RM-TT Tabletop Array Microphones, and RM-W Wireless Microphones. The V2.0.0 update includes several new features and improvements, including customized beam tracking functionality, an output router for Dante output signal, low latency mode for wireless microphones, an increase in the number of microphones compatible with one RM-CR, and more.

“Here at Yamaha, we are dedicated to improving our technology as conferencing needs and requirements evolve,” said Holger Stoltze, senior director of technical sales and marketing, Yamaha Unified Communications. “This latest ADECIA firmware directly addresses specific customer requests and further cements ADECIA as a uniquely innovative solution in the UC space, with capabilities unlike any other system on the market.” 

[11 Speakerphones for Today's Workspace] 

The Version 2.0.0 firmware includes updates to all ADECIA microphone options and the Yamaha RM-CR Audio Processor as well as Zoom Certification for the RM-CG Ceiling Array Microphones and the RM-TT Tabletop Microphones. Among the new features for the RM-CR is a preset Store/Recall Function that allows for support of changing environments such as combining and dividing meeting rooms. The customized beam tracking functionality for the RM-CG Ceiling Microphone allows users to pre-set the RM-CG’s beam-tracking zones using a color-coded system in the Web UI, allowing for up to two “focus areas'' and two “exclusion areas” for more accurate audio pick-up. Additionally, the firmware now supports up to 14 RM-CG microphones connected to one RM-CR, and up to 64 RM-W wireless microphones can now be used in one area with external processors like the Yamaha MRX7-D. New reduced-latency modes for all RM microphones enable them all to be used in voice-lift applications.

Within the ADECIA solution, Yamaha’s RM-CG Ceiling Microphone, RM-TT Tabletop Microphone, and RM-W Wireless Microphones feature voice tracking technologies to allow lively conversations to be picked up and delivered clearly to the far end. The voice tracking function automatically selects the microphone closest to the person speaking for superior voice capture, and its human voice activity detection technology anticipates additional voice locations for seamless conversation pickup.

 [Who's Ready for Hybrid?] 

Yamaha's ADECIA conferencing solution is an innovative family of communication products that provide a complete and customizable audio solution for any meeting or learning space. The easy-install solution is comprised of four Yamaha products: the RM-CG Ceiling Array Microphone, RM-TT Tabletop Microphones, or RM-W Wireless Microphones, the RM-CR processor, Yamaha's long-trusted PoE switches, and the VXL Series line array speakers. The complete solution immediately detects all components of the system and optimizes their configuration for the room environment, accounting for the location of speakers and microphones, reverberation, and echo behavior. Setting up a room is done through the system's configurator in four effortless steps. With USB, Bluetooth, Dante, and analog connections, this flexible system can fit a variety of meeting spaces.

Much like a light bulb has a usable life, so do most Pro AV products. After a product runs its course, though, what happens to it? From components to packaging, what parts are reused or recycled? And do companies have policies in place to reduce waste during the manufacturing process?

[Viewpoint: With Systems and Sustainability, Mutual Gains are Possible]

These questions speak to the growing importance of sustainability. While definitions can vary widely, SCN generally defines sustainability as meeting present technological needs while minimizing long-term environmental impacts and raw material usage.

Commitment to Conservation

Thankfully, many companies serving the Pro AV industry already have sustainability programs. Yamaha, for example, participates in several initiatives, including the UN Global Compact, and has its own Sustainability Committee. Sennheiser has included environmental protection efforts in its corporate guidelines, with specific emphasis on materials, energy efficiency, and recycling.

[NAB Show Launches Excellence in Sustainability Awards]

According to Luca Lastrucci, co-founder and CEO of Powersoft, conserving energy has always been a part of the company's DNA. With solar panels installed on its roof, for example, the company's main factory in Italy generates enough power to be self-sufficient. "Not only does such an approach reduce the impact of equipment on the environment," he explained, "but it also represents an interesting economic advantage."

In 1995, Powersoft introduced Class D PWM technology, which Lastrucci said is "based on extremely high efficiency that allows it to transform all the energy drawn from the mains into usable power, and to recycle the reactive energy coming back from the loudspeakers. This was pretty revolutionary at the time, and it took a bit of time to be widely adopted, so we’re proud to have been at the heart of this advent."

Other Powersoft technologies aimed at improving efficiency and consequently reducing power consumption are now part of the company's design philosophy called Green Audio Power. "We will continue to contribute toward environmental sustainability, thanks to smaller, lighter, and more efficient amplifiers," Lastrucci added. "This equates to lower electricity bills but also a lower carbon footprint, as well as a smaller impact on the environment as a result."

[Editorial: Sustainability Can Be Taught]

Early last year, collaboration products developer Xilica, headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, announced its commitment to carbon neutrality. The company is working to ensure its products will have net zero impact on the environment and achieve Climate Neutral Certified status. (Climate Neutral is a global nonprofit that helps companies offset their carbon emissions.)

“We know that fighting climate change requires strong, coordinated action across industries, and hope our own efforts will make a positive contribution to the larger movement for greater environmental responsibility,” said James Knight, Xilica’s COO, at the time of the announcement.

In a blog posted last month, Broadsign CEO Burr Smith said the company has pledged to reduce and offset its carbon footprint starting in 2023. The company, which worked with experts to understand its carbon footprint, is still finalizing its plans, but expects to share details in Q2. 

“We are committed to this because we understand the climate crisis is one of the most significant challenges facing the world and we all, individuals and businesses as well as governments, must do more to make our future brighter,” Smith wrote. “I don’t want to leave future generations, including my grandkids, worse off because nobody cared enough to try and make things better today.”

Reducing Waste

Patrick Cuddy, CTS, serves as director of enterprise and Pro AV distribution for Legrand|AV. As a LEED Green Associate (LEED is a popular green building rating system), he's also very much a part of the company's sustainability efforts. That includes a place on the AVIXA Sustainability Task Force, a volunteer group focused on creating standards and best practices for the Pro AV industry to create a more sustainable future.

[Sustainability Is a ‘Top Business Priority’ for PPDS]

Legrand|AV has made a conscious effort to embrace sustainability. Middle Atlantic Products, for example, uses recycled steel in its products, and provides packaging to customers to send batteries back for recycling. Da-Lite’s screens have received certification for low emitting projection screen fabrics from the GreenGuard Environmental Institute. Another Legrand|AV company retooled an entire product line to remove lead from its soldering process.

Is there waste in the AV industry? “There’s a ton—many tons,” offered Cuddy. “The challenge is that there are a plethora of certification systems. Some are targeted to specific industries or vertical markets, while others are more universal. It’s going to be interesting to see how we evolve to marry up those various standards.”

Sustainability does not exist in a vacuum; it is interdependent on a variety of factors. So, how does the AV industry get better? According to Cuddy, the first step is to “realize we need to get better.”

From shopping bags to electronics, U.S. consumers tend to practice a “use it and toss it” mentality. Cuddy would like to see the industry improve education efforts to customers, providing product life expectancy information and other details to encourage participation. “Our world is changing,” he noted. “We have more people, and we are very consumable in our focus in the U.S.”

According to Cuddy, one of the AV industry’s biggest issues is electronic waste, or e-waste. The majority of end-of-life components are added to a landfill instead of getting some sort of second life. Cuddy proposed that older equipment can be repurposed for different applications, stripped for parts, or even recycled for new products.

Reusing decommissioned equipment could have a positive impact on the supply chain as well as the environment. "Just because there's a newer version doesn't mean the previous version doesn't work for the right application," he offered.

Cuddy said recycling is pretty good at the manufacturer’s end, as it is part of the waste stream in the production process. However, he would like to see the industry find more consistent efforts to encourage the recycling of batteries, displays, and other components.

“It’s the installed base that doesn’t have that readily available,” Cuddy explained. “People have to realize their own footprint and the environmental impact of their own production consumption. That’s where our industry can really step up.”

How Green Is Green?

What's a good first step toward better environmental practices? Cuddy said manufacturers should look for opportunities to be more sustainable in the manufacturing process. They should also make sure all components and chemicals are compliant with RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) standards. Even relatively simple actions, such as turning off lights in factories when there are no humans present or scheduling downtime for equipment maintenance, can make a difference.

For the installer, sustainability efforts often begin with asking manufacturers a single question: What is the end-of-life process for your products? Cuddy said adding sustainability information to bids and project specifications can be a very appealing feature for environmentally conscious clients.

Plus, some manufacturers offer services to reduce waste. For example, Middle Atlantic Products will assemble some items in racks prior to shipment. Not only can this improve installation efficiencies, but it reduces packing material waste at a job site. Cuddy said installers should look for manufacturers that provide those types of services.

In August 2020, d&b audiotechnik, a sound reinforcement equipment manufacturer headquartered in Backnang, Germany, announced the launch of its Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program, under which the company recovers systems that are end-of-life, remanufactures them, and resells them into the marketplace.

Remanufacturing is not to be confused with repairing, recycling, or refurbishing. According to the Remanufacturing Industries Council—an alliance of businesses, trade associations, and academia—remanufacturing is a “rigorous industrial process by which a previously sold, leased, used, worn, remanufactured, or non-functional product or part is returned to a like-new, same-as-when-new, or better-than-when-new condition from both a quality and performance perspective, through a controlled, reproducible, and sustainable process.”

At d&b audiotechnik, systems included in the CPO program are checked for damages and dismantled down to the component level. They are then reassembled, repainted, and tested before being reintroduced into the market. Robert Trebus, director of sustainability at the company, noted the process not only enables d&b to decrease the carbon footprint of its products, it also makes its systems accessible to customers who don’t have the budget to purchase brand-new gear. “[There is] an attractive price benefit [which has] opened up another business segment,” he said.

Integrators may also look to organizations like Sustainability in AV (SAVe) for guidance on how to make their organizations more sustainable. (See our story on page 28.) Last fall, the nonprofit launched its first certification program in partnership with Tempest Technologies, an AV solutions and service provider based in Issaquah, WA. SAVe's one-day program includes an education module, workshop, and assessment so integrators can develop a strategy for achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations in 2015. Once companies identify which SDGs they will focus on, they may remain in regular contact with SAVe to share their progress, discuss their challenges, and access resources.

Still, transparency on the manufacturing side of things can help everyone make better purchasing decisions. Anyone who has attempted to buy a sustainable product understands that it can be difficult to discern just how environmentally friendly the item actually is. For this reason, Trebus would like to see Pro AV industry associations develop guidelines that help designers, integrators, and end users determine just how "green" are the products that are being specified and purchased.

[SAVe, HETMA Join Forces to Expand Sustainability Initiatives]

“My concern is that by using the word ‘green’ everywhere, the end user can’t identify what is really sustainable and what is just a greenwashing marketing campaign,” he said. “We need a little bit more structure and guidance in the market.”

Regardless, Trebus believes that pursuing sustainability is the biggest opportunity of this decade. He argues that when manufacturers work on decreasing their carbon footprint, they automatically increase the quality of their products, pointing to similarities between sustainability best practices and ISO 9001 quality management standards. “When you develop a product that is more sustainable, you increase the quality of what you do,” he added. “The result is a much higher value product in the end.” 

AVIXA Sustainability Task Force

Created by the AVIXA board of directors, the Sustainability Task Force is a yearlong initiative tasked with creating “a common understanding of sustainability for our industry.” The co-chairs of the task force are David Silberstein, channel sales manager for DTEN, and Thomas Serbruyns, vice president of strategic initiatives for Barco. The group is expected to disband by August 2023, once it had submitted a proposal that investigates how the organization can support the Pro AV industry’s efforts in becoming more sustainable.

Participating Organizations

ACT Associates

Arup

Augusta University

Barco

Branch Pattern

CalPoly

Clear-Com

Crestron

Cyviz

Distributed Sound & Video

Dobil Laboratories

DTEN

Electronics & Engineering

Emory University

HP

HS Solutions

Legrand |AV

Luxul

Midwich Group

MOOD MediaNETGEAR

Niza Alta Tecologia en Comunicacion

Optoma

Pro-Motion Technology Group

Prysm Systems

QSC

Shure

RGB Spectrum

Symetrix

Technology Architecture Design

University of Guelph

University of Virginia

Vaddio

Visualization

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

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

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

SCN Hybrid World

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

11 Speakerphones for Today's Workspace

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

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

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

See all 11 speakerphones here. 

Look Up, Listen Up with These 9 Ceiling Mics

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

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

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

Find out more about these nine ceiling mics.

Seeing Is Believing with These 17 Conference Cameras

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

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

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

Find out more here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More to come...

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

 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.

Audinate, Bolin and Yamaha have joined together to offer a single system that couples Yamaha’s ADECIA Conferencing systems with Bolin’s high-performing 4K and Full HD Dante AV-native PTZ cameras. This solution provides systems integrators and end users with a system to create collaboration spaces with perfectly timed audio and video on one network switch.

“This collaboration with Yamaha and Bolin highlights the power of Dante AV and its ability to unite incredible technology partners in a way that ultimately makes it easier for people to create and operate systems that better meet their needs,” said Joshua Rush, chief marketing officer, Audinate.

[SCN Hybrid World: Workplace Products and Expert Tips]

Yamaha ADECIA is a family of audio products designed to be easily installed and integrated to provide communications solutions for meeting spaces or classroom audio. The ADECIA solutions help overcome challenges with implementation, configuration and room acoustics by providing all components required for a successful installation (microphones, speakers, audio processor, and switch) and automatic technologies that reduce set up time, costs and complexities. The system offers three microphone options—ceiling, wired tabletop and wireless.

[Dante Studio Focuses on Software Solutions]

“The combined impact of proven experts on audio, video, transport, and control coming together to offer one comprehensive UC system is something integrators and end users have asked for and which we can now deliver upon with this partnership," said Michelle Baeza, director of strategic partnerships at Yamaha Unified Communications. "Yamaha and Audinate’s long standing relationship is even further bonded with new  offerings focused around this latest technology and Bolin’s unique Dante AV cameras.”

Bolin’s D Series Dante AV PTZ cameras, the D412 4K60 and D220 Full HD, provide uncompromised video quality with extremely low latency and AV synchronization. The D Series Dante AV cameras offer high-quality, rich color images with quiet and smooth Pan, Tilt, and Zoom capability. These high-performing cameras are fully compatible with all existing Dante audio and video systems.

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

“Our native Dante AV cameras combine the power and simplicity of Dante networks with best-in-class PTZ performance and image quality," said Jennifer Lee, director of sales, Bolin. "The D412 and D220, paired with the Yamaha ADECIA system, provide perfectly-timed video and audio for a scalable, dependable, collaborative, and enhanced UC solution.” 

Yamaha UC is amping up the classroom audio experience for in-person and virtual students at the University of Arizona. The higher education institution’s Systems and Industrial Engineering and Mining and Geological Engineering departments selected and installed the ADECIA ceiling microphone and line array speaker system for lecture recording and video conferencing

“With ADECIA, everyone on the far end can easily hear the in-room participants clearly, even if they walk around the room,” said Zachary Chapman, senior systems administrator at UA. “The microphone picks them up clearly, without picking up background noise from the room’s air-conditioning unit. Plus, there are far fewer troubleshooting calls to the IT department. That’s a success, in my opinion.”

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

ADECIA is an innovative family of communication products that provides a complete and customizable audio solution, delivering the most comfortable and effortless remote conferencing experience for any meeting or learning space. The easy-to-install solution is comprised of four Yamaha products: a choice of microphones (RM-CG ceiling array, RM-TT tabletop, or RM-W wireless), the RM-CR processor, Yamaha’s long-trusted PoE switches, and VXL series line array speakers. The complete solution immediately detects all components of the system and optimizes their configuration for the room environment, accounting for the location of speakers and microphones, reverberation, and echo behavior. Setting up a room is done through the system's configurator in four effortless steps. With USB, Bluetooth, Dante, and analog connections, this flexible system can fit a variety of meeting spaces.

The two classrooms at UA only required one RM-CG ceiling microphone each, demonstrating its powerful room coverage. The systems engineering classroom seats 30-40 people, while the mining department’s classroom seats up to 50 people. The team installed the ceiling microphone toward the front of each classroom, in the vicinity of where the professor normally stands and speaks. Thanks to ADECIA, despite the room’s large size, students asking questions from anywhere in the room are now successfully picked up by the ceiling microphone.

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

“Outstanding audio is an invaluable component of learning,” said Holger Stoltze, Ph.D., senior director of technical sales and marketing, Yamaha Unified Communications. “ADECIA simplifies edtech decisions, purchasing, and installation while delivering incredible audio coverage in one customizable, practically plug-and-play kit. The deployment of ADECIA at UA demonstrates how no element was overlooked in the pursuit of delivering great learning experiences.”

Producer/engineers and longtime friends Max Arnold and Francisco Oroz have been stalwarts of Ciudad Obregon’s music scene for the past several decades. Seeing an opportunity to better serve the city’s musical talent who they felt lacked a world-class recording studio, the pair joined forces to found Sonic Den, a new recording studio that would not only keep the area’s talent closer to home, but also meet their exacting standards for sonic excellence. Arnold and Oroz brought on global acoustic consulting and AV integration firm WSDG (Walters-Storyk Design Group) to bring their dream studio to life. 

Small-town feel, world-class design
Arnold and Oroz often traveled to facilities in Mexico City, Guadalajara, and the United States for professional recording and audio production services during their formative years as musicians due to a lack of suitable recording studios in town. That experience gave the pair a strong desire to build a similar infrastructure for Ciudad Obregon’s thriving musical scene. Having worked out of a variety of home studios and improvised spaces since the mid-90s, the pair knew they needed a game-changing space to keep the area’s talent closer to home.   

[SCN Hall of Fame 2022: John Storyk]

“Ciudad Obregon has a lot of musicians for its size, but they always had to go elsewhere to ‘make it’,” Arnold explained. “Francisco and I believe that the city’s talent deserved a world-class space so when we got together on Sonic Den our ambitions for the studio were high even if we weren’t entirely sure what was possible.”

Choosing to build the studio on a 1500-square-meter lot that Arnold owned, the pair knew that they needed designers who would understand their desire for a world-class space that wouldn’t compromise the small-town warmth that they felt was integral to the local musical community. They immediately found kindred spirits in WSDG. “We knew they were the ones for Sonic Den instantly because they took the time to get to know us and understand our dreams for the studio,” Arnold said. “Sergio and Silvia Molho encouraged us to design something beyond anything we had initially imagined.”

[Blueprint for Success: Always Look Forward, but Occasionally Gaze Back]

“Almost 99% of studios are built into existing places, which can create difficulties and compromises when you are trying to implement the design,” explained WSDG partner, Sergio Molho. “With Sonic Den we had a blank canvas to design a recording studio from the ground up that would encompass all of their recording and audio production needs, and more.”

Aesthetic warmth and sonic excellence

The WSDG design team, directed by WSDG partner, art director Silvia Molho, consisting of director of production Leandro Kirjner, senior project manager Mariana Varon, and project manager Esther Roger, presented Arnold and Oroz with a comprehensive master plan that encompassed all technical, acoustic, and design aspects of the studio. Its futuristic-yet-warm aesthetic feel consisting of a royal blue color scheme offset by wood paneling throughout the facility was designed to ensure that the studio would feel like a home-away-from-home for anyone working there. “The studio quickly expanded to include a lounge with a kitchen, dining area, terrace, and coordination offices in addition to the control and live rooms,” said Molho. “All of these spaces were designed to be both comfortable and practical with variable lighting provided by the Phillips Hue System to give Max and Francisco complete control of the mood of each space.”

[The Nine 2022: Meet 9 Pro AV Superstars] 

The audio production spaces were designed to meet the highest technical and acoustic standards and consist of a large live room, a pair of ISO booths, and a control room. The live room was designed specifically to track full ensembles all at once with generous space for drum recording. It also features a painted mural by Mexican American artist Teddy Kelly. The control room features a Slate Digital Raven MTZ Console with ATC and Yamaha Monitors in addition to a Dolby Atmos for Music-certified immersive production setup that utilizes 13 Genelec speakers, making it ideal for live tracking, mixing, and mastering in both stereo and 9.1.4. AV systems integration design was performed by WSDG’s senior systems designer Federico Paez, and final tuning by sound engineer David Molho. “We couldn’t believe our ears the first time we mixed and mastered a song in the studio,” said Arnold. “We’re both very picky about sound quality and just found ourselves loving the sounds immediately. Francisco turned to me and said, ‘I’ve never been as happy with a mix as I am right now.’”

With a slate of recording and audio post-production projects already lining up, Arnold says Sonic Den has raised the bar for professional recording facilities in Ciudad Obregon and will make musicians think twice about traveling for their recording needs. “Our city deserves bigger things, and this studio feels like a big step in the right direction,” Arnold said. “We’re very grateful to WSDG for expanding our horizons on what was possible with Sonic Den. We’re able to do everything we ever wanted and more here—it’s truly a dream come true.”

Yamaha continues to remove barriers for easily installed, clear, and high-quality Microsoft Teams meetings with the latest certification of its ADECIA Tabletop Solution. Part of the company’s ADECIA family of complete, customizable conferencing tools, the tabletop solution meets the medium-sized room standards for natural, clear audio that defines the Teams experience.

“The future of education and business communications demands conferencing solutions that are easy to install and deliver pristine audio quality,” said Michelle Baeza, director of strategic partnerships at Yamaha Unified Communications. “The RM-TT microphone of ADECIA Tabletop Solution meets all of those standards. As a device that is certified for Microsoft Teams, organizations can confidently select it as a part of the Microsoft Teams experience.”

 [SCN Hybrid World: Workplace Products and Expert Tips] 

The Yamaha RM-TT wired tabletop array microphone is one of the several standalone microphone options also available in ADECIA, a complete family of easy-to-install products designed to work seamlessly together to provide customizable communications solutions for meetings or learning spaces. The ADECIA Tabletop Solution, like the ADECIA Ceiling System, integrates the RM-CR remote conference processor, VXL1-16P Dante/PoE-compatible line array speaker, and SWR2311P-10G Yamaha's long-trusted PoE network switch, providing a comfortable and effortless remote conferencing experience.

Packed into RM-TT's low-profile form factor are all of Yamaha's powerful sound technologies, including automatic voice tracking, auto gain control, adaptive echo cancellation, noise reduction, and reverberation suppression for optimal collaboration experiences. When the RM-CR processor and RM-TT tabletop microphones are combined, the unique voice tracking function automatically selects the microphone closest to the person speaking for optimal voice capture. For example, a meeting participant who is moving from the conference table to a white board or interactive display in the room can ensure that their voice will be captured and delivered to the far end in crisp, clear quality. In a classroom, the microphones can be set up around the room to capture every student as well as the teacher who may be presenting lessons from different areas or checking on individual progress or questions. The innovative technology also allows installers to dictate each microphone pod's directional mode for customized room capture. Available mic options include unidirectional, super-cardioid, hyper-cardioid, omnidirectional, bidirectional, or toroidal.

[Yamaha UC on Workplace 2022]

The ADECIA complete solution automatically detects all components of the system and configures them to be optimized for the room environment, accounting for the location of speakers and microphones, reverberation, and echo behavior. Setting up a room is done through the system's configurator in four effortless steps. With USB, Bluetooth, Dante, and analog connections, this flexible system can fit a variety of enterprise or meeting spaces and classrooms.

"In a world of hybrid meetings, a room’s audio quality is key to creating equity between people inside the meeting room and remotely.” said Albert Kooiman, senior director, Microsoft Teams Devices Partner Engineering and Certification at Microsoft Corp. “Yamaha has a long tradition of delivering audio excellence, and with achieving certification for Microsoft Teams, the RM-TT brings quality in-room and remote audio to the Teams experience.”

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

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56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

>> 22Miles 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: Steve Trunkett, Director, Global Sales at SurgeX

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

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

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

InfoComm Booth: W1373

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56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

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

Thought Leader: Tomer Mann, CRO at 22Miles

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

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

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

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

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

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56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

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

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

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

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

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

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

InfoComm Booth: N635

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

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56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

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

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

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

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

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

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

InfoComm Booth: N2612

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

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56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

>> 22Miles Roadmap 2022

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

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

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

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

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

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

InfoComm Booth: N529

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

Check out the more than 50 Roadmaps here!

56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

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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

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

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

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

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

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

InfoComm Booth: W2423

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

Check out the more than 50 Roadmaps here!

56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

>> 22Miles Roadmap 2022

>> Absen Roadmap 2022

>> AMX Roadmap 2022 

>> ATEN Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> AtlasIED Roadmap 2022

>> Atlona Roadmap 2022

>> Auton Motorized Systems Roadmap 2022

>> Avnu Alliance Roadmap 2022

>> Barix Roadmap 2022 

>> Barco Roadmap 2022 

>> BenQ America Roadmap 2022

>> Biamp Roadmap 2022 

>> Black Box Roadmap 2022 

>> BlueJeans by Verizon Roadmap 2022

>> BrightSign Roadmap 2022

>> C2G Roadmap 2022

>> Chief Roadmap 2022

>> ClearOne Roadmap 2022

>> Crestron Roadmap 2022 

>> Daktronics Roadmap 2022

>> Datapath Roadmap 2022

>> EPOS Audio Roadmap 2022 

>> Hall Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> IHSE USA Roadmap 2022 

>> Intel Roadmap 2022 

>> Just Add Power Roadmap 2022

>> Kramer Roadmap 2022

>> Legrand|AV Roadmap 2022 

>> Listen Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> Logitech Roadmap 2022

>> LynTec Roadmap 2022

>> Macnica Roadmap 2022

>> Matrox Roadmap 2022 

>> Meyer Sound Roadmap 2022

>> NETGEAR Roadmap 2022

>> Nureva Roadmap 2022

>> Optoma Roadmap 2022 

>> Planar Roadmap 2022

>> Poly Roadmap 2022

>> Prysm Systems Roadmap 2022 

>> PTZOptics Roadmap 2022

>> QSC Roadmap 2022

>> Red Dot Digital Media Roadmap 2022

>> RTI Roadmap 2022

>> Samsung Roadmap 2022 

>> SAVI Controls Roadmap 2022 

>> Sennheiser Roadmap 2022

>> Shure Roadmap 2022

>> Sonic Foundry Roadmap 2022

>> Sony Roadmap 2022

>> Utelogy Roadmap 2022

>> Vanco International Roadmap 2022

>> ViewSonic Roadmap 2022

>> VuWall Roadmap 2022

>> Xilica Roadmap 2022

>> Yamaha Unified Communications Roadmap 2022

>> Zoom Roadmap 2022

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

InfoComm Booth: W1067

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

Check out the more than 50 Roadmaps here!

56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

>> 22Miles Roadmap 2022

>> Absen Roadmap 2022

>> AMX Roadmap 2022 

>> ATEN Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> AtlasIED Roadmap 2022

>> Atlona Roadmap 2022

>> Auton Motorized Systems Roadmap 2022

>> Avnu Alliance Roadmap 2022

>> Barix Roadmap 2022 

>> Barco Roadmap 2022 

>> BenQ America Roadmap 2022

>> Biamp Roadmap 2022 

>> Black Box Roadmap 2022 

>> BlueJeans by Verizon Roadmap 2022

>> BrightSign Roadmap 2022

>> C2G Roadmap 2022

>> Chief Roadmap 2022

>> ClearOne Roadmap 2022

>> Crestron Roadmap 2022 

>> Daktronics Roadmap 2022

>> Datapath Roadmap 2022

>> EPOS Audio Roadmap 2022 

>> Hall Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> IHSE USA Roadmap 2022 

>> Intel Roadmap 2022 

>> Just Add Power Roadmap 2022

>> Kramer Roadmap 2022

>> Legrand|AV Roadmap 2022 

>> Listen Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> Logitech Roadmap 2022

>> LynTec Roadmap 2022

>> Macnica Roadmap 2022

>> Matrox Roadmap 2022 

>> Meyer Sound Roadmap 2022

>> NETGEAR Roadmap 2022

>> Nureva Roadmap 2022

>> Optoma Roadmap 2022 

>> Planar Roadmap 2022

>> Poly Roadmap 2022

>> Prysm Systems Roadmap 2022 

>> PTZOptics Roadmap 2022

>> QSC Roadmap 2022

>> Red Dot Digital Media Roadmap 2022

>> RTI Roadmap 2022

>> Samsung Roadmap 2022 

>> SAVI Controls Roadmap 2022 

>> Sennheiser Roadmap 2022

>> Shure Roadmap 2022

>> Sonic Foundry Roadmap 2022

>> Sony Roadmap 2022

>> Utelogy Roadmap 2022

>> Vanco International Roadmap 2022

>> ViewSonic Roadmap 2022

>> VuWall Roadmap 2022

>> Xilica Roadmap 2022

>> Yamaha Unified Communications Roadmap 2022

>> Zoom Roadmap 2022

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

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

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

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

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

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

InfoComm Booth: N2473

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

Check out the more than 50 Roadmaps here!

56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

>> 22Miles Roadmap 2022

>> Absen Roadmap 2022

>> AMX Roadmap 2022 

>> ATEN Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> AtlasIED Roadmap 2022

>> Atlona Roadmap 2022

>> Auton Motorized Systems Roadmap 2022

>> Avnu Alliance Roadmap 2022

>> Barix Roadmap 2022 

>> Barco Roadmap 2022 

>> BenQ America Roadmap 2022

>> Biamp Roadmap 2022 

>> Black Box Roadmap 2022 

>> BlueJeans by Verizon Roadmap 2022

>> BrightSign Roadmap 2022

>> C2G Roadmap 2022

>> Chief Roadmap 2022

>> ClearOne Roadmap 2022

>> Crestron Roadmap 2022 

>> Daktronics Roadmap 2022

>> Datapath Roadmap 2022

>> EPOS Audio Roadmap 2022 

>> Hall Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> IHSE USA Roadmap 2022 

>> Intel Roadmap 2022 

>> Just Add Power Roadmap 2022

>> Kramer Roadmap 2022

>> Legrand|AV Roadmap 2022 

>> Listen Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> Logitech Roadmap 2022

>> LynTec Roadmap 2022

>> Macnica Roadmap 2022

>> Matrox Roadmap 2022 

>> Meyer Sound Roadmap 2022

>> NETGEAR Roadmap 2022

>> Nureva Roadmap 2022

>> Optoma Roadmap 2022 

>> Planar Roadmap 2022

>> Poly Roadmap 2022

>> Prysm Systems Roadmap 2022 

>> PTZOptics Roadmap 2022

>> QSC Roadmap 2022

>> Red Dot Digital Media Roadmap 2022

>> RTI Roadmap 2022

>> Samsung Roadmap 2022 

>> SAVI Controls Roadmap 2022 

>> Sennheiser Roadmap 2022

>> Shure Roadmap 2022

>> Sonic Foundry Roadmap 2022

>> Sony Roadmap 2022

>> Utelogy Roadmap 2022

>> Vanco International Roadmap 2022

>> ViewSonic Roadmap 2022

>> VuWall Roadmap 2022

>> Xilica Roadmap 2022

>> Yamaha Unified Communications Roadmap 2022

>> Zoom Roadmap 2022

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

Thought Leader: Tzahi Madgar, President of HDBaseT Alliance

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

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

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

InfoComm Booth: W1337

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

Check out the more than 50 Roadmaps here!

56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

>> 22Miles Roadmap 2022

>> Absen Roadmap 2022

>> AMX Roadmap 2022 

>> ATEN Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> AtlasIED Roadmap 2022

>> Atlona Roadmap 2022

>> Auton Motorized Systems Roadmap 2022

>> Avnu Alliance Roadmap 2022

>> Barix Roadmap 2022 

>> Barco Roadmap 2022 

>> BenQ America Roadmap 2022

>> Biamp Roadmap 2022 

>> Black Box Roadmap 2022 

>> BlueJeans by Verizon Roadmap 2022

>> BrightSign Roadmap 2022

>> C2G Roadmap 2022

>> Chief Roadmap 2022

>> ClearOne Roadmap 2022

>> Crestron Roadmap 2022 

>> Daktronics Roadmap 2022

>> Datapath Roadmap 2022

>> EPOS Audio Roadmap 2022 

>> Hall Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> IHSE USA Roadmap 2022 

>> Intel Roadmap 2022 

>> Just Add Power Roadmap 2022

>> Kramer Roadmap 2022

>> Legrand|AV Roadmap 2022 

>> Listen Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> Logitech Roadmap 2022

>> LynTec Roadmap 2022

>> Macnica Roadmap 2022

>> Matrox Roadmap 2022 

>> Meyer Sound Roadmap 2022

>> NETGEAR Roadmap 2022

>> Nureva Roadmap 2022

>> Optoma Roadmap 2022 

>> Planar Roadmap 2022

>> Poly Roadmap 2022

>> Prysm Systems Roadmap 2022 

>> PTZOptics Roadmap 2022

>> QSC Roadmap 2022

>> Red Dot Digital Media Roadmap 2022

>> RTI Roadmap 2022

>> Samsung Roadmap 2022 

>> SAVI Controls Roadmap 2022 

>> Sennheiser Roadmap 2022

>> Shure Roadmap 2022

>> Sonic Foundry Roadmap 2022

>> Sony Roadmap 2022

>> Utelogy Roadmap 2022

>> Vanco International Roadmap 2022

>> ViewSonic Roadmap 2022

>> VuWall Roadmap 2022

>> Xilica Roadmap 2022

>> Yamaha Unified Communications Roadmap 2022

>> Zoom Roadmap 2022

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

Thought Leader: Anna Kozel, Director of Marketing at VuWall

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

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

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

InfoComm Booth: N1569

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

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

Absen's Roadmap to IC22 

Aurora Multimedia's Roadmap to IC22 

Covid, Inc.'s Roadmap to IC22 

Epiphan Video's Roadmap to IC22 

Hall Technologies Roadmap to IC22 

Legrand | AV's Roadmap to IC22 

Neutrik Americas' Roadmap to IC22 

Peerless-AV's Roadmap to IC22 

Poly's Roadmap to IC22 

PTZOptics' Roadmap to IC22 

Samsung's Roadmap to IC22 

Sennheiser's Roadmap to IC22 

Shure's Roadmap to IC22 

Sony Electronics' Roadmap to IC22 

tvONE's Roadmap to IC22 

Utelogy's Roadmap to IC22 

Yamaha UC's Roadmap to IC22

Logitech's Roadmap to IC22

56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

>> 22Miles Roadmap 2022

>> Absen Roadmap 2022

>> AMX Roadmap 2022 

>> ATEN Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> AtlasIED Roadmap 2022

>> Atlona Roadmap 2022

>> Auton Motorized Systems Roadmap 2022

>> Avnu Alliance Roadmap 2022

>> Barix Roadmap 2022 

>> Barco Roadmap 2022 

>> BenQ America Roadmap 2022

>> Biamp Roadmap 2022 

>> Black Box Roadmap 2022 

>> BlueJeans by Verizon Roadmap 2022

>> BrightSign Roadmap 2022

>> C2G Roadmap 2022

>> Chief Roadmap 2022

>> ClearOne Roadmap 2022

>> Crestron Roadmap 2022 

>> Daktronics Roadmap 2022

>> Datapath Roadmap 2022

>> EPOS Audio Roadmap 2022 

>> Hall Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> IHSE USA Roadmap 2022 

>> Intel Roadmap 2022 

>> Just Add Power Roadmap 2022

>> Kramer Roadmap 2022

>> Legrand|AV Roadmap 2022 

>> Listen Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> Logitech Roadmap 2022

>> LynTec Roadmap 2022

>> Macnica Roadmap 2022

>> Matrox Roadmap 2022 

>> Meyer Sound Roadmap 2022

>> NETGEAR Roadmap 2022

>> Nureva Roadmap 2022

>> Optoma Roadmap 2022 

>> Planar Roadmap 2022

>> Poly Roadmap 2022

>> Prysm Systems Roadmap 2022 

>> PTZOptics Roadmap 2022

>> QSC Roadmap 2022

>> Red Dot Digital Media Roadmap 2022

>> RTI Roadmap 2022

>> Samsung Roadmap 2022 

>> SAVI Controls Roadmap 2022 

>> Sennheiser Roadmap 2022

>> Shure Roadmap 2022

>> Sonic Foundry Roadmap 2022

>> Sony Roadmap 2022

>> Utelogy Roadmap 2022

>> Vanco International Roadmap 2022

>> ViewSonic Roadmap 2022

>> VuWall Roadmap 2022

>> Xilica Roadmap 2022

>> Yamaha Unified Communications Roadmap 2022

>> Zoom Roadmap 2022

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

Thought Leader: Mark Roslon, Director of Product Management, Commercial Displays at Epson America

At Epson, we are committed to building large, spectacular, and immersive displays that can efficiently and cost effectively deliver transformative experiences across a wide range of markets, including live events, experiential, art, signage, corporate, house of worship, and education.

After two years of being away, Epson is eager to be back at InfoComm to demonstrate our latest projection technology in person. Epson’s booth will showcase its premium projection solutions that integrate seamlessly into virtually any environment and transform spaces into unique experiences unbound by a frame. 

Epson engineers listen to customers and continue to innovate with smaller, lighter, and brighter solutions. Epson will showcase the world’s smallest and lightest 20,000-lumen and 10,000-lumen projectors; along with its ultra-wide, extra-big display solutions; flexible signage technology; and its impressive projector management and installation tools. 

Shown for the first time in the U.S., Epson will highlight its new 13,000-, 16,000-, and 20,000-lumen projectors, including the EB-PU2220B and EB-PU2120W, which are 60 percent smaller and 50 percent lighter than predecessors. Epson will also show the new PixAlign ELPEC01 camera that attaches to select Epson projectors and lenses. PixAlign is a powerful tool that makes advanced projection installations, such as edge blending and stacking, easier than ever before. 

Addressing today’s education and corporate display needs, Epson will also demonstrate hybrid collaboration and learning solutions that enable all participants to see, be seen, and participate equally, whether they are in person or remote. Epson’s booth will also include digital signage solutions that enable creative minds to deliver immersive, experiential moments to be remembered.

From compact and portable to powerful, permanent-install projectors, Epson, the market leader, offers an extensive selection of advanced three-chip display technology options, engineered for reliability, extraordinary image quality, and incredible brightness in virtually any environment.

InfoComm Booth: N2331

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

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

Absen's Roadmap to IC22 

Aurora Multimedia's Roadmap to IC22 

Covid, Inc.'s Roadmap to IC22 

Epiphan Video's Roadmap to IC22 

Hall Technologies Roadmap to IC22 

Legrand | AV's Roadmap to IC22 

Neutrik Americas' Roadmap to IC22 

Peerless-AV's Roadmap to IC22 

Poly's Roadmap to IC22 

PTZOptics' Roadmap to IC22 

Samsung's Roadmap to IC22 

Sennheiser's Roadmap to IC22 

Shure's Roadmap to IC22 

Sony Electronics' Roadmap to IC22 

tvONE's Roadmap to IC22 

Utelogy's Roadmap to IC22 

Yamaha UC's Roadmap to IC22

Logitech's Roadmap to IC22

56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

>> 22Miles Roadmap 2022

>> Absen Roadmap 2022

>> AMX Roadmap 2022 

>> ATEN Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> AtlasIED Roadmap 2022

>> Atlona Roadmap 2022

>> Auton Motorized Systems Roadmap 2022

>> Avnu Alliance Roadmap 2022

>> Barix Roadmap 2022 

>> Barco Roadmap 2022 

>> BenQ America Roadmap 2022

>> Biamp Roadmap 2022 

>> Black Box Roadmap 2022 

>> BlueJeans by Verizon Roadmap 2022

>> BrightSign Roadmap 2022

>> C2G Roadmap 2022

>> Chief Roadmap 2022

>> ClearOne Roadmap 2022

>> Crestron Roadmap 2022 

>> Daktronics Roadmap 2022

>> Datapath Roadmap 2022

>> EPOS Audio Roadmap 2022 

>> Hall Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> IHSE USA Roadmap 2022 

>> Intel Roadmap 2022 

>> Just Add Power Roadmap 2022

>> Kramer Roadmap 2022

>> Legrand|AV Roadmap 2022 

>> Listen Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> Logitech Roadmap 2022

>> LynTec Roadmap 2022

>> Macnica Roadmap 2022

>> Matrox Roadmap 2022 

>> Meyer Sound Roadmap 2022

>> NETGEAR Roadmap 2022

>> Nureva Roadmap 2022

>> Optoma Roadmap 2022 

>> Planar Roadmap 2022

>> Poly Roadmap 2022

>> Prysm Systems Roadmap 2022 

>> PTZOptics Roadmap 2022

>> QSC Roadmap 2022

>> Red Dot Digital Media Roadmap 2022

>> RTI Roadmap 2022

>> Samsung Roadmap 2022 

>> SAVI Controls Roadmap 2022 

>> Sennheiser Roadmap 2022

>> Shure Roadmap 2022