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 The 2008 Major League Baseball season kicked off in fine style with the grand opening of Nationals Park, the new 41,000-seat ballpark of the Washington, D.C. franchise that features high-octane venue-wide sound reinforcement led by an all-EAW loudspeaker lineup. The system was designed by Wrightson, Johnson, Haddon & Williams (WJHW) of Dallas, with Principal Ron Baker serving as lead designer. Tech Inc. of Latham, Maryland handled the fast-track installation, while the Columbia, Maryland office of AVI-SPL supplied custom engineering services.
As they’ve done with frequently with ballpark sound reinforcement projects, WJHW elected to deploy a distributed system, and in this case, it includes more than 450 full-range EAW loudspeakers, with the majority being compact, two-way members of the MK Series.
 The MK Series has proven popular in numerous stadium and ballpark projects around the globe due to their quality sonic properties, durability, and compact footprint.
Most of the loudspeakers for Nationals Park are outfitted with either 12-inch or 15-inch woofers, although some MK Series enclosures with 8-inch woofers also proved fortuitous in regions dictating a particularly low profile.
Continue reading "Inside The All-EAW Loudspeaker Set At Nationals Park" »
 Carlson Audio Systems of Seattle recently utilized the new EAW NTL720 small line array system to great effect for huge events featuring the Dalai Lama at both Qwest Field and Key Arena.
Mark Carlson notes that the NTL720, which supported larger systems featuring EAW KF760 Series line arrays, EAW KF750 Series concert loudspeakers, SB1000z subwoofers and other EAW components, performed exceptionally well in fulfilling their coverage roles at both venues. The NTL720's small size and fast, convenient rigging were quite beneficial as well, Mark adds.
We'll have more coverage of these interesting applications posted here soon. Thanks to Carlson Audio for the excellent photo above.
 The new Shuttle Launch Experience at Kennedy Space Center in Florida was recently awarded a TEA (Themed Entertainment Association) Thea Award for Outstanding Achievement, with EAW selected to play a significant role in sound reinforcement for the attraction.
Conceived and designed by BRC Imagination Arts, the Shuttle Launch Experience is a $60-million project incorporating a wide range of production elements. Techno-media Solutions LLC provided technical AV systems integration, with the Shuttle Simulation Theater featuring an audio system incorporating EAW SB850z subwoofers, three EAW KF695z main loudspeakers, two more KF695z's joined by two EAW KF300z's for four surround sound channels, and an overhead channel with two EAW MK Series loudspeakers.
The project is the subject of an in-depth feature article written by Judith Rubin that appeared in the March 2008 issue of Sound & Communications magazine. Click here to check it out.
 The beautiful new Club Hotel in Thessaloniki, Greece, features a dynamic sound system headlined by EAW Avalon Series club loudspeakers courtesy of Eurosound S.A., EAW's distributor serving Greece.
The 500-square-meter nightclub features a wide range of entertainment as the newest premier nightspot in Thessaloniki (Θεσσαλονίκη), the second-largest city in Greece and the capital of Macedonia, the nation's largest region.
 Already one of the most prestigious (and largest) venues in the city, Club Hotel features an all-EAW loudspeaker line-up to meet all sound reinforcement needs. The system is headlined by six Avalon DC2 larger-format full-range loudspeakers spaced throughout the club, joined by six more Avalon DC4 smaller-format full-range loudspeakers, with both models featuring cutaway upper-rear cabinet corners that allow them to tuck up next to the ceiling while being angled downward to provide optimum coverage.
 Dual Avalon DCT1 supertweeter arrays (4 x 1.33-inch-exit tweeters) with an inverted pyramid configuration delivering optimized 360-degree horizontal high-frequency dispersion from centrally mounted locations. Low-frequency energy to fill out the sonic spectrum are supplied by six EAW SB1000zR dual-18-inch-loaded subwoofers. All loudspeakers are driven by Lab.gruppen amplifiers.
"The management of the club had first heard the EAW components in another club, and as a result of that dynamic demonstration of EAW quality, selected them for their own venue," notes Apostolos Kanakaris. (Our thanks to Eurosound for the excellent photos as well as the details in this report.)
 A recent evaluation process highlights the dramatic performance gains that can be realized by utilizing recent EAW technologies to enhance an existing sound reinforcement system.
The evaluation took place at Crossway Baptist Church in Victoria, Australia, which hosts worship services and other activities in an 1,110-seat, fan-shaped auditorium. The current house sound reinforcement system, installed in 1995 and still going strong, features a pair of EAW KF650E three-way full-range loudspeakers installed per side above the edge of the front platform, with a single EAW SB1000E subwoofer per side on the floor.
 Four EAW JFX200 compact loudspeakers along the front of the stage offer fill when needed, and they can also be utilized as spare stage monitor wedges (other monitoring is supplied by IEM systems). Additional front fill comes via four two-way loudspeakers mounted directly beneath the KF650E mains.
The system is under the direction of Media Pastor Peter MacLean, who is heading the evaluation process for possible upgrade of select components. Working closely with Production Audio Services Pty. Ltd., EAW’s distributor for the Australian pro audio marketplace, and also based in Victoria, a new EAW UX8800 digital processor was first implemented, in place of the system’s current digital processor. (Peter is shown at right in the above photo, with Graeme Stevenson and Ben Clarke of Production Audio Services.)
Continue reading "UMX.96, UX8800 Enhance Crossway Baptist Church System" »
 The new EAW SB1002 is a large-format dual-18-inch-loaded subwoofer that can be groundstacked or easily flown via an integral rigging system, making it ideal for a wide range of high-output live and installed sound applications.
Following in the footsteps of the legendary EAW SB1000z subwoofer, the new SB1002 offers a direct radiating design, with driver mounting that maximizes cone area and minimizes frontal area. The result is acoustical performance and physical configuration well suited for creating large subwoofer arrays.
The two 18-inch drivers – designed specifically for the SB1002 - offer very large (4.5-inch) voice coils as well as powerful neodymium magnet structures that also reduce weight. The operating range of the SB1002 is 27 Hz – 161 Hz (+/-3 dB), while maximum sound pressure levels are 129 dB (average) and 135 dB (peak).
Continue reading "New EAW SB1002 Large-Format Dual-18 Subwoofer" »
 The new Nationals Ballpark in Washington D.C., home of Major League Baseball's Nationals franchise, is set to celebrate its grand opening this weekend. Sound reinforcement throughout the state-of-the-art sports venue is supplied by a distributed system featuring hundreds of EAW loudspeakers.
WJHW of Dallas and SPL Integrated Systems of Columbia, Maryland teamed up on the system project. A selection of EAW models is utilized, with MK Series models being most predominant. We'll provide more details and commentary on this project soon.
 Free passes are available for the upcoming (June 18-20) Infocomm '08 Exhibition at the Las Vegas Convention Center. EAW will be exhibiting at Infocomm, which this year for the first time also incorporates the NSCA Expo under the same roof.
The passes also allow admission to several free Infocomm events, including the Opening Reception and NSCA ExpoJam. Click here to view the pdf form providing more information and free pass registration instruction.
 Adam Howarth is the most recent addition to the Application Support Group (ASG), our multifaceted team offering a wide range of specialized technical services to EAW customers worldwide. The appointment was announced by Joe Fustolo, manager of ASG.
As an Application Support Specialist based at our Whitinsville, MA facilities, Howarth provides in-depth support for all EAW professional audio products, including the Smaart tuning and analysis platform. He joins the ASG team with a background in live event system design and engineering, and has served as a live and recording engineer, an audio instructor, and as a design consultant for theaters, production companies, and educational institutions.
Continue reading "Adam Howarth Joins EAW As ASG Support Specialist" »
 A Valentine’s Day concert at the venerable Orpheum Theater in downtown Los Angeles by Don Was and the Was (Not Was) band, featuring legendary performers Brian Wilson and Kris Kristofferson, proved an excellent occasion for the public debut of EAW’s brand-new MicroWedge Series stage monitors. Oxnard, CA-based Rat Sound Systems Inc. supplied the sound reinforcement systems and support under the direction of crew chief Tom Caraisco.
The big news in system-land was the first-time live concert deployment of the EAW MicroWedge MW12 stage wedges for all performers, fueled by monitor engineer Andy Turner’s mixes. The wedges were driven by a combination of Chevin and Lab.gruppen power amplifiers.
 “We really, really like the performance of these new wedges,” notes Caraisco. “Once Andy got things going on stage, and we went through all of the mixes, he was genuinely pleased.”
“The old Microwedge was solid and performed well enough when compared to other wedges, but these new ones are night-and-day superior,” states Dave Rat. “This is a whole new deal. I knew the wedges were a big step forward, but what I did not expect was such an overwhelming embrace so quickly from our own engineers as well as the artists and band engineers."
Continue reading "MicroWedge Debuts With Brian Wilson, Was (Not Was) Live" »
EAW will be exhibiting in full force at the upcoming Prolight+Sound - Musikmesse show in Frankfurt, Germany, the international trade fair for event and communications technology, AV-production and entertainment.
Prolight+Sound runs from Wednesday, March 12 through Saturday, March 15, with EAW providing a full exhibit, located at Hall 8.0, booth M44/M48. Numerous EAW personnel from Europe and the U.S. will be on hand to discuss the wide range EAW and EAW Commercial products on display, including the brand-new SB1002 subwoofer, KF737 high-Q line array module, and MicroWedge MW12 stage monitor.
Also new will be several models in the EAW Commercial line, including SMS Series surface-mount loudspeakers, CAM Series mixer-amplifiers, CXA Series amplifiers, and CIS Series high-output ceiling loudspeakers. And, they all will be joined by the UMX.96 digital console, UX8800 digital processor and NTL720 self-powered "baby" line array.
 The North Bondi RSL club in Sydney was definitely the place to be recently, with FOH Engineer Dave Coxon mixing the renowned Martini Club band as it worked the 2,500 (full) capacity turnout into a frenzy through the new EAW NTL720 (BLAM) self-powered "baby" line arrays that also feature revolutionary Gunness Focusing technology.
Coxon, of DJW Projects, says the heat coming off the dance floor was incredible and literally had water dripping off the walls. DJW Projects is a solution-based boutique service company based in Sydney, specializing in premium end, customized audio-visual design, install, and production.
 Only four NTL720's per side were required to get the entire venue absolutely rocking. Amazingly pristine audio from self-powered loudspeakers that weigh under 22 kilograms (48 pounds) each!
Thanks very much to the team at Production Audio Services, and Brendan Phillips in particular, for this report and photos.
 The March 2008 issue of
CX Magazine provides outstanding in-depth coverage of the systems technology being deployed for the current Iron Maiden "Somewhere Back In Time" world concert tour, in an article written by Andy MacKenzie.
The Iron Maiden concert system is headlined by EAW KF760 Series line arrays as well as UX8800 digital processing, with all sound design, equipment and technical support provided by ML Group. For the Australian shows, ML Group is working with Norwest Productions of Sydney, with Ewan McDonald of Norwest providing the first-hand system overview to MacKenzie.
Click here to read the entire article in pdf form. For more than 17 years, CX (short for Connections) Magazine has served as the leading voice of the entertainment technology industry in Australia and New Zealand. It is published by Juliusmedia, headed by Julius Grafton. We sincerely thank Juliusmedia for allowing us to present this coverage to you.
 Production Audio Services, EAW's distribution firm serving the Australia customer base, recently put on quite a "show within a show" at ENTECH '08. Recognized as THE entertainment technology show for the entire region, ENTECH includes the latest professional audio, lighting, broadcast, audio visual and staging products, supplies and services.
Held this year in mid-February at the Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre Darling Harbour, ENTECH attracted a huge crowd of professional technology users, and Production Audio Services had a fully stocked booth ready to provide them with a close look at the latest EAW and EAW Commercial products.
Just a few of the highlights included the new EAW NTL720 (BLAM) baby line array modules, CIS Series ceiling loudspeakers, UX8800 dual-mode digital processing with Gunness Focusing technology - and much more.
 The Production Audio Services staff worked the booth throughout the run of the show, offering expert insight into the new EAW products and technologies. It was topped by a booth presentation of exceptional professionalism.
Click here to find out more about Production Audio Services.
Yes, it was still "just" a concert gig, but we've got to admit - it sure is one with a bit of that extra cache. "It" is Super Bowl Saturday Night, the official National Football League celebration the night before the big game, held prior to this year's Super Bowl XLII in Phoenix at Tempe Town Lake, with thousands in attendance.
Sure, Earth Wind & Fire and other notable acts were on the bill. Sure, Jerry O'Connell was the host. Sure, there was a big fireworks show finale. But... the highlight (from our completely objective point of view) was the headline performance by Foreigner, mixed by the incomparable Don Dodge on the UMX.96 digital console. As its done over dozens of gigs around the world the past several months, the UMX.96 proved to be a superb tool in serving Don's needs in mixing Foreigner live.
"Things could not have gone better with the console, as usual," Don notes. "It's performance was fantastic, matching the stature of this high-profile show." And as EAW Business Director Jon Bosaw aptly points out: "It's not every team that makes the Super Bowl in its first year." (Thanks to Don for the photos of the board at the gig above. Don's shown with the UMX.96 at lower right.)
 Clubs of all sizes and styles with EAW-based sound systems (Avalon and more!) are a big part of the recently announced 2008 Club World Awards list of nominees. The annual awards show, held in March in Miami, is run by Club Systems International, the leading U.S.-based nightclub systems/technology publication.
The 2008 nominees:
 Best Sound System
1015 Cirque Lounge, San Francisco
Design and installation by JK Sound
Best Superclub
Avalon Hollywood
Mansion, Miami
Best Club
Jet, Las Vegas
Best Lounge
Lush, Las Vegas
Best Renovation
1015, San Francisco
Nightstalker Award
Deko Lounge, Sayerville, NJ
Click here for more information about these venues and the Club World Awards.
At the end of January, more than 300,000 descended upon Zocalo de la Ciudad de Mexico, the main square in Mexico City, to attend a rally regarding agricultural policies in Mexico - with leading sound company Consorcio Audiovisa S.A de C.V providing EAW KF730 Series line arrays as part of a comprehensive sound reinforcement package.
In fact, Consorcio Audiovisa of Mexico City - a member of ELAN and owned by Alejandro and José Luis Morales - deployed 56 EAW KF730 Series line array modules (driven by Crown I-Tech amplification) to serve six different regions/stages of the massive Zocalo area, including the four main streets leading to the square. Frontfill for one of the regions was supplied by EAW LA215 loudspeakers.
"We were able to attain great sound pressure levels throughout the square and its surrounding area, which was the primary goal," notes Alejandro Morales. Click here to see more of the system and event in photos supplied by Alejandro.
Continue reading "KF730 From Consorcio Serves Massive Mexico City Rally" »
Marshank Sales has been appointed the new EAW independent sales representative for Southern California and Southern Nevada (Las Vegas). The announcement was made by Scott Pizzo, EAW Director of U.S. Sales.
 Marshank Sales is the longest established representative firm in the professional audio systems industry, founded in 1920, and under the guidance of Gary Marshank (pictured left), the company is now celebrating its third generation as a family business.
 Recently, pro audio industry veteran Paul Hugo (pictured right) also joined the Marshank team as a partner, where he will be working directly with the company’s deep staff in focusing on the live sound, systems integration and broadcast market segments.
“We’re beyond pleased to be working with a firm as respected and experienced as Marshank Sales,” says Pizzo. “They’ve earned a well-deserved reputation for excellence with a full-service approach that includes strong, consistent business relationships and a devotion to technical and product training. This is perfectly in line with our own goals as an organization.”
Marshank Sales is based in a 1,600-square-foot office and warehouse space that is centrally located in Tarzana, California. In addition to Gary Marshank and Paul Hugo, the company team, is comprised of several professionals in numerous audio disciplines, including Jens May, Grendal Hanks, Michael Mostert, Jim Agnello, Chris Gagon and Robin Pitigliano. Click here to learn more about Marshank Sales.
 Charlotte, NC-based production company Event Productions USA recently added EAW KF730 line arrays, EAW UX8800 digital signal processors, and eight EAW SB1000z subwoofers to its growing audio system inventory. (The photo at left shows Event Productions' new KF730 arrays.)
Founded and owned by Tom Durban, Event Productions USA has specialized in serving the production needs of the corporate AV marketplace, nationwide, for almost 15 years. Providing video and lighting systems with expert staff services has been the company’s primary focus until recently, when Durban responded to customer requests for professional audio systems and services.
The foundation of this effort is the new EAW KF730 small-format line arrays, UX8800 dual-mode digital processors and SB1000z dual-18-loaded subwoofers. “We selected the EAW components based upon numerous recommendations from experienced audio professionals,” Durban explains. “Our customers demand clean, highly intelligible sound quality, and from equipment meeting the stringent aesthetic requirements of all high-end corporate-industrial systems.
Continue reading "Event Productions Expands With KF730, UX8800 Processing" »
 EAW has appointed inventory and warehouse management veteran Leslie Faretty to the position of Inventory Manager. The appointment was announced by Jon Bosaw, EAW Business Director.
Leslie brings 10-plus years of experience to the position, where she is charged with managing global EAW product inventory, focusing in particular on the crucial issue of the stocking and tracking of replacement parts around the world, as well as related pricing matters. She also works directly with customers on inventory and parts issues.
Based at the company’s Woodinville, WA offices, Leslie joins EAW following exceptional work with LOUD Technologies, where she served in a variety of key roles, including warehouse management and customer service.
“During her tenure with LOUD, Leslie has consistently demonstrated a very strong command of the complex world of inventory and parts management,” notes Jon. “Her in-depth understanding of this vital facet of our business, as well as her proven responsiveness to our customers, are both huge assets as EAW continues to grow.”
 You’re invited to participate in upcoming EAW Smaart School sessions in Montreal, March 5-7, 2008.
The intensive three-day training package will be presented at EAW Canadian market distributor SF Marketing’s Dorval, Quebec facilities as well as at Salle Claude-Champagne (l’Université de Montréal). (SF Marketing is the organizer of this educational event.)
Smaart Fundamentals and Applications will be covered the first two days, with the third day devoted to an Advanced User Seminar. Click here to find out more and to get cost/registration details.
Continue reading "Smaart School Slated For March 5-7 In Montreal" »
 Leave it to the innovative Michael Lacina and his JK Sound team to come up with a clever way to utilize EAW KF761 large-format line array modules to deliver superb sound reinforcement in the intimate confines of a lounge setting.
The recent project, at the Cirque Lounge on Folsom Street in San Francisco, offered the particular challenge of fitting a powerful sound system into a low ceiling room with various beams diminishing the height even further.
 Further, Scot Peterson, lighting designer for the project, was hoping the sound system's loudspeakers would not infringe on the symmetry of the 1,000-plus LED grid he was planning for the ceiling, while Craige Walters, the interior designer, was pushing for the loudspeakers to disappear into the sweeping curves of his design.
That’s when Lacina (pictured at left), in talking about the project with system integrator Brad Katz, shared an "epiphany": utilize EAW’s top of the line the KF761 line array module, burying four of them into the façade of the soffit that rings the dance floor. Then, hide the speakers behind a perforated metal grill.
 The overall result: creation of an invisible monster of a system to serve Cirque Lounge patrons. Not surprisingly, JK Sound has been nominated for 2008 Club World Award for sound design at Slide Speakeasy in San Francisco, and this latest innovation is not at all likely to be overlooked when nomination time comes for next year's awards.
Click here to find our more details about this project in MS Word format
Click here to find our more details about this project in pdf format
 EAW reps and distributors were treated to the LOUD Technologies "Peek-a-Boo Review" at the recent Winter NAMM Show in Anaheim, featuring up-close looks at several new EAW products such as the NTL720 self-powered line array, MicroWedge 12 stage monitor, the UMX.96 digital console and UX8800 dual-mode digital processor. EAW's Bernie Broderick is seen above, presenting the new products, while below, we treated to additional photos at the UMX.96 and NTL720.
 Dubai-based Smart Vision LLC a leading Middle Eastern systems integrator, has recently commissioned an EAW-based system at the stunning new Elegante Club, already becoming the hottest nightclub in the region since its December opening.
With a capacity of more than 1,000, Elegante Club (housed within Dubai's prestigious Royal Ascot Hotel and managed by the Executive Group) presents diverse entertainment, including live music, special stage shows, top DJs of the region and renowned international DJs once a month. .
 "Elegante Club is unique, appealing to its clientele by featuring a one-of-a-kind light and laser grid, state-of-the-art liquid nitrogen Kryogenifex effects systems and of course, the absolute best sound system design and technology. It all combines to make for the latest evolution of nightlife artistry," explains Oussama Mansour Abou Faraj, who manages Smart Vision LLC as well as HI FI SERVICE of Beirut, Lebanon.
With excellent support from EAW Executive Audio, the Smart Vision LLC team members, including Khaled Abu Rislan (sound system installation) and Tony Mattar (lighting and video system installation) were crucial to the project.
Continue reading "Smart Vision Implements EAW For Dubai's Elegante Club" »
 New EAW Commercial CAM160 and CAM80 integrated audio mixers-power amplifiers are outfitted with comprehensive input/output facilities and feature sets to provide exceptional versatility from a highly cost-effective package. Designed for a wide range of fixed installation applications, the CAM Series offers “all in one” functionality without need for add-ons such as expansion modules.
Both models are equipped with six actively balanced combination mic/line inputs as well as individual adjustable potentiometers for line level input, mic level input and mic level input with 24-volt DC phantom power. Input 1 also offers the flexibility of an integrated transformer for connection to telephone paging systems.
Inputs 1 and 2 are divided into four discrete input sections: a combination XLR/TRS connector, Phoenix connector, or terminal strip. Meanwhile, Inputs 3, 4, 5 and 6 offer both Phoenix connectors and terminal strips. Two pairs of RCA connectors allow unbalanced auxiliary (Aux) signals to enter the amplifier via Aux 1 and Aux 2, both of which are attenuated by a potentiometer on the front of the amplifier.
Continue reading "Introducing New CAM Series Integrated Mixers-Amplifiers" »
 Zamar Media Solutions has just put the finishing touches on an exciting new sound system design and installation at the beautiful new worship center of WestGate Church in San Jose, California, that's headlined by EAW UX8800 dual-mode digital processing as well as EAW AX Series full-range loudspeakers.
Matt Dow served as the project manager for Zamar, which, since 1991, has successfully provided pro audio, video, lighting and acoustics systems and services in the Bay Area communities, with a committed dedication to the local church community. Dow and the Zamar team worked closely with church-contractor liaison John Coyle on the project.
 The WestGate Church worship center features one of the very first church sound systems enhanced with the UX8800's revolutionary Gunness Focusing technology. According to Zamar's Ken Hughes, alternative processing had originally been slated for the system but was replaced when new UX8800 units became available via EAW sales rep firm PCM Marketing.
We'll have a more detailed report on this system in the very near future. Thanks to Ken for the excellent photos shown here. Click here to find out more about Zamar Media Solutions.
 Leading club systems provider Ohm Productions recently provided expert audio, visual and lighting system design and installation for the Tattoo Bar, one of Washington D.C.’s newest nightspots located in the thriving K Street district.
Headed by Jeff Darby and based in nearby Potomac Falls, Virginia, Ohm Productions is recognized as the region’s “go to” nightclub and lounge systems resource for more than 15 years, consistently delivering superior designs that are expertly applied to fit and enhance the desired experiences of club owners and patrons alike. Recent projects include Lotus Lounge, FUR Nightclub and UltraBar – all among D.C.’s hottest of spots.
 Tattoo Bar presents a decidedly “blue collar” ambiance, with the long narrow room (about 2,500 total square feet) taking on an industrial motif with a biker’s twist. In fact, a full-size steel sculpture of a motorcyclist bursts from the wall above the bar, while motorcycle chains are utilized as “hanging door bead” dividers.
“This venue is different from any other in the area, which makes it an exciting, fresh alternative,” Darby explains. “It’s got a gritty feel, and the music programming goes along with that – heavy on rock n’ roll tracks.”
Continue reading "Ohm Productions Deploys FRz Series For D.C.'s Tattoo Bar" »
 Leading hire company ML Group will be supplying the largest EAW KF760 Series line array contingent ever to tour Europe as key components of a large-scale sound reinforcement system for the upcoming Iron Maiden “Somewhere Back in Time" 2008 world tour.
Kicking off in India early in February, the tour will visit more than 30 countries on several continents in the coming months. ML Executives Managing Director Gary Marks is coordinating system issues with partner companies around the globe, such as Norwest Productions of Sydney, Australia and Brantley Sound Associates of Nashville. Michael Hackman (pictured below) is serving as the KF760 Series line array system technician for the tour, also performing system analysis and optimization at each stop with an assist from EAW Smaart.
 "For the stadium tour in Europe, we'll be supplying four main hangs of 18 EAW KF760 modules and two EAW KF761 wide dispersion modules," explains Marks. "So, that's a total of 80 cabinets on the main four hangs, plus 24 EAW SB1000 subwoofers per side. Also, because the stages will be very wide, we'll use six more KF761 modules flown in the center to serve as a vocal fill."
We'll be providing updates on the progress of the system and tour as it goes along. Click here for the official tour itinerary.
You’re invited to participate in upcoming EAW Smaart School sessions in Vancouver, February 6-8, 2008.
The intensive three-day training package, presented by veteran Smaart School instructor Arthur Skudra, will be conducted at the beautiful Chan Centre for the Performing Arts (CCPA), located at the University of British-Columbia (UBC).
Smaart Fundamentals and Applications will be covered the first two days, with the third day devoted to an Advanced User Seminar. Click here to find out more and to get cost/registration details.
Continue reading "Smaart School: February 6-8 At Chan Centre, Vancouver" »
 Leading U.K. hire company Concert Sound just finished up providing a large-scale sound reinforcement system for the latest European concert tour by the legendary Joe Cocker, including extensive EAW line array and loudspeaker sets.
Concert Sound worked closely with FOH Engineer Chris Madden in formulating the system, which traveled throughout the European continent in support of the 2007 release of the acclaimed Hymn For My Soul album. The scalable system, under the care of System Engineer Dave Dixon, was comprised of left and right main hangs of up to 20 EAW KF760 Series large-format line array modules, with EAW KF730 Series small-format line array modules on the deck for front-fill.
 Side-fill came from up to eight EAW KF750 Series three-way concert loudspeakers flown per side, with a low-frequency contingent of up to 18 EAW SB1000z dual-18-inch-loaded subwoofers split left and right. “I loved the consistency of this system – it sounded great every day throughout the 13-week tour, performing in a widely differing variety of venues,” noted Madden. “The system also provided very fast load-ins and load-outs, and further, it didn't suffer a single component failure during the whole tour.”
A portion of the system as well as key sound team members are pictured above. Left to right - Ben Byford, Adrian Fitzpatrick, Chris Madden, Niall Slevin, and Dave Dixon. And, thanks to Moray McMillan of EAW Europe for the great photos!
 Stage Audio & Lighting Productions of Longwood, Florida, recently provided sound reinforcement and technical support at all venues for this year’s Florida International Festival in Daytona Beach, highlighted by a performance by the London Symphony Orchestra (LSO), featuring a concert system based upon a variety of EAW loudspeakers line arrays and EAW digital processing.
Headed by Phillip Kovacevich (pictured below), Stage Audio & Lighting Productions is a leading live event company celebrating its third decade of serving touring artists and corporate event planners in the Eastern U.S. and the Caribbean, and the company counts live orchestra sound reinforcement as one of its specialties.
 Veteran free-lance audio professional Jeremy Goldstein, based in Orlando, brought his talents to the event as well. In addition to helping with system management throughout the festival, he also provided the live mix of the first half of the LSO concert.
The LSO show featured a “Pops” style that paid tribute to motion picture soundtracks, with “Darth Vadar” making an appearance to guest-conduct the “Star Wars” theme.
 The large-scale system assembled to serve the audience filling the 46,000-square-foot, multi-level Ocean Center arena in Daytona included EAW KF760 Series large-format line arrays optimized with the new EAW UX8800 dual-mode digital processors with Gunness Focusing technology.
Continue reading "Stage Audio Serves London Symphony With EAW" »
 The campaign for the U.S. presidency kicked into high-octane mode last week as Oprah Winfrey joined Democratic candidate Barack Obama at Williams-Brice Football Stadium in Columbia, SC, where ACS Sound & Lighting delivered EAW-based sound reinforcement for the more than 30,000 people at the largest political rally in South Carolina history.
ACS Co-Owner Troy Gwin and his crew’s concert-level system effort was headed by EAW KF760 Series large-format line arrays joined by EAW KF730 Series small-format line arrays, with several EAW BH760 “SuperSubs” also on hand for pounding low-end for musical artists such as Arrested Development.
 ACS, also based in Columbia, provided “in the round” coverage of the audience surrounding the main stage at one end of the stadium, with organizers adamant that the PA stay out of crowd and TV camera sightlines.
The KF760 line arrays and BH760 subs were transported down to field level from the stadium scoreboard, supplied by ACS through the 2007 football season to deliver reinforcement at University of South Carolina Gamecocks home games. They were joined by KF730 Series line array inventory, with Gwin utilizing the EAW Wizard software program to help with initial system configuration and then doing his own detailed tailoring.
Continue reading "ACS Taps EAW For Largest Political Rally In SC History" »
 EAW has established a new operation – exclusively focused on the EAW brand – that dramatically upgrades our ability to serve the crucial European professional audio marketplace.
The new EAW Europe, which officially opens its doors on January 2, 2007, is based in Wickford, Essex, UK, and is headed by veteran European Sales Manager Sean Martin (shown at right). He is directing a team of six full-time, highly experienced professionals who will work in support of the EAW brand and its European customer base.
The new operation offers the complete inventory of EAW products on the European continent in order to dramatically shorten delivery times. An expansive inventory of repair and replacement parts are kept on hand as well, with an EAW Product Service Centre also instituted in Wickford, in very close proximity to the offices of EAW Europe.
Continue reading "Dramatic Enhancement In Serving European Market" »
 Noted harpist Vincenzo Zitello, recognized as one of the finest Italian musical artists, performs live in concert with sound reinforcement by EAW NT Series self-powered loudspeakers with Gunness Focusing.
Also widely respected for his skills as a composer, Zitello's compositions have often been played in Saint Peter’s Square in Rome to accompany special worship services.
 For live performances, Zitello utilizes his own custom sound reinforcement system that even includes special microphones installed in his harps, along with several premium Neumann overhead mics.
The system, under the direction of Vittorio Sorrentino, Zitello's sound engineer, is led by NT26 loudspeakers, sometimes joined by NTS22 subwoofers. Sorrentino (pictured below) selected the NT Series following an evaluation of numerous loudspeakers.
 "The EAW NT26's are very high quality loudspeakers, and are the only ones that can reproduce the unique sound of the harp with all the harmonics and the complete dynamic range, without any coloration or distortion," explains Sorrentino. "We use two or four NT26, depending on the venue size. They are coupled with NTS22 subwoofers when Vincenzo performs with other musicians.”
In January, 2008, Zitello will be performing at Théâtre Max Jacob in Bretagna-France, a high award for an Italian artist to play Breton music in its homeland. (To learn more about Vincenzo Zitello, click here. Our thanks to Edoardo Ravelli of Exhibo for this information and the photos.)
 Leading hire company Canegreen of London recently deployed its EAW KF760 Series line array inventory for a series of events at London's ExCel Arena, the largest indoor arena venue in the U.K.
The multi-day event series included a live festival for Islam television, followed by Tamil Remembrance Day and then the two-day Nigerian Festival of Life, with attendance sometimes approaching 30,000.
 Canegreen was able to achieve excellent sound reinforcement with a main system headed by left and right line array hangs comprised of 10 KF760 modules above two KF761 wide-dispersion modules, and a dozen SB1000z subwoofers on the deck.
Renowned FOH Engineer Roger Lindsay provided the house mix for all three events (as he did last year), with Canegreen's Paul "PK" Knight and Ace McGrogan on hand throughout to provide expert system engineering and technical support. (Roger, PK and Ace are pictured directly above, left to right.)
 The accolades keep on coming for the UMX.96 digital console as it continues its tour with FOH Engineer Don Dodge in support of Foreigner's international tour.
The latest notice comes from Audio Pro International magazine, based in the U.K., which is featuring an exclusive interview with Don on his experiences with the UMX. Sample comment from Don: "The console has a ‘warmer’ sound to it than others, with analog pre amps and VCA section and a very analog layout.”
Be sure to check out the entire interview here.
 The new NTL720 is one of the most exciting products developed by EAW in some time. It's a self-powered line array loudspeaker system so small that we call it the "baby line array module" (BLAM), but it packs a true three-way design and numerous other EAW patented and proprietary technologies into its very small footprint. The NTL720 made its live debut at the recent 2007 ET Live in Orlando - click here to check out photos of it in action.
Also here on EAW.com, there's a wide range of information about this new system:
NTL720 Info Page
NTL720 Product Page
NTL Preliminary Data Sheet (pdf)
NTL720 White Paper (pdf)
And, check out the November '07 issue of Live Sound magazine for an in-depth report on the NTL720.
 EAW's Moray McMillan (UK Sales Manager) recently caught up with Foreigner FOH Engineer Don Dodge as he travels Europe with the UMX.96 digital console - the board's maiden voyage across the pond. Don reports all is going exceptionally well, both with the tour in general as well as the performance of the console. Moray sends along the recent photo he took at right, showing Don prior to a recent concert at Shepperds Bush.
More dates remain on the Foreigner swing through Europe. Click here to see where and when the tour is appearing in the coming weeks.
 At the recent 2007 ET Live in Orlando, Dave Rat provided the live mix at the EAW stage on an EAW UMX.96 digital console. During a break, the folks at Mix magazine (Editorial Director Tom Kenny and Managing Editor Sarah Benzuly) stopped by to talk with Dave about his experiences this first time out with the board.
Dave notes right up front that overall, he's not too keen on the digital mixing format, still preferring analog. Yet he did find a lot to like about the UMX.96, topped by a demonstration of one of the board's more unique (and fun) features...
In part 2 of the interview, Dave discusses the new EAW MicroWedge line, providing some context as well as his reasons for working with EAW on this coming product series. Click here to go directly to the videos.
 Leading UK hire company Concert Sound continues to keep its EAW KF760 Series line arrays very busy, as evidenced by the recent two-day “Live ‘07” show by the Scout Association of the UK at the new 20,000-seat O2 Arena inside the London Millennium Dome. The dynamic event featured a wide range of live entertainment, including a 20-piece band, 90-piece orchestra and 30-plus member choir. (More than 140 inputs were required.)
Concert Sound elected to go with a main concert system headed by several arrays of KF760 Series modules, also including KF761 wide-coverage modules to attain extended dispersion in nearfield regions. The arrays easily delivered superb full-range output to every seat in the large-scale arena.
 Key system personnel working the event included Simon Wooler (FOH engineer), Matt Mannasse (orchestra engineer), Tim Peeling (system engineer) and Gary Sylvester (monitor engineer).
Concert Sound’s efforts at Live ’07 follows up their successful work with the Scout Association in support of the World Scout Jamboree this past summer, attended by more than 40,000 scouts from around the globe. (Credits for the excellent photos posted here to EAW’s Moray McMillan and the Scout Association.)
 ET Live 2007 in Orlando was a whole lot of fun, but it was also highly productive as well, as thousands turned out in the beautiful weather to get a first-hand look at the numerous EAW advancements in action.
The huge stage, with live performances by Led Zeppelin tribute band Physical Graffiti, featured the new NTL720 "baby" line array modules (BLAM) making a laudable debut. The output-to-size ratio of this exciting new self-powered loudspeaker product proved most impressive, as well as high vocal intelligibility in evidence both with musical programming as well as during introductory remarks by EAW Brand Group Vice President Jeffrey Cox.
 Dave Rat (pictured left) was on hand to provide the mix on an EAW UMX.96 digital console, and he also saw the preliminary introduction of the first of the new EAW MicroWedge products in prototype form. (The new wedges and the console attracted quite the traffic at the house mix position.)
Meanwhile, new KF737 modules, bringing high-Q capabilities while fitting seamlessly within KF730 Series arrays, drew a wide range of rave reviews. Many in attendance also got their first look (and listen) at the new UX8800 digital processor with Gunness Focusing, utilized with the KF730 arrays. (The NTL720's have onboard DSP that includes Gunness Focusing.)
 And, yet another debut came in the form of the new SB1002 subwoofer, featuring convenient flying capabilities and much more.
Filling out the system, which was under the highly capable direction of Howard Burke, were KF650z sidefills and SM12 stage monitors. Harry Brill Jr. ran Smaart throughout the event, with Smaart designated as the official measurement system for the entire event. Stage Audio & Lighting Productions of Longwood, Florida, headed by Phil Kovacevich, provided systems and on-site support throughout the event.
For a photographic look at ET Live '07, click on the link directly below.
Continue reading "Product Debuts & Fun Both In Adundance At ET Live '07" »
 EAW loudspeakers have been specified and installed for the new American Spirit Gymnasium and Theater at Escondido (California) Charter High School, a state-of-the-art school serving students in the San Diego region. The systems for both the gym and theater were installed by Integrated Media Systems of Anaheim, with support from EAW rep firm Audio Geer.
The gym offers sound reinforcement supplied by eight EAW MK2366 compact two-way loudspeakers flown in pairs, positioned equidistantly and providing complete full-range coverage of all seating and floor areas.
 The theater features dual EAW DSA250i digitally steerable array loudspeakers, one flown to each side of the stage, supplying primary full-range coverage throughout the space. They're joined by an SB150P compact, 15-inch-loaded subwoofer that's flown centrally above the stage. Four EAW Commercial VRM12 stage monitors are also available.
We'll present more details regarding this interesting project here on Front Row in the very near future. Our thanks to Audio Geer for the preliminary information and great photos.
 Performance Recording and Sound, founded by Marty Bilecki and based in the Chicago area, just finished up a very successful summer season in providing sound and support at a wide range of live concerts, festivals and events.
A member of EAW ELAN, Performance Sound has earned a reputation for quality equipment and personal service, serving local and national clients since 1991. The company’s A-Line live system is headed by up to 20 EAW KF730 Series small line array modules, and a bit earlier this year, the system was enhanced with the addition of new EAW UX8800 digital processing with Gunness Focusing. “All of the traveling engineers were impressed with the UX8800 processor and the 730 system,” notes Marty.
One highlight was providing sound for the Addision (Illinois) Community Days festival, which featured live performances by Eddie Money, .38 Special and Mickey Thomas of Starship. Images of the system for that gig, along with a picture of Marty, are shown above. Thanks to Marty and his team for providing these photos, and click here to find out more about Performance Sound.
 A new performance audio system featuring EAW KF730 Series line arrays and UX8800 digital processing has gone live at Centennial Hall, home to UApresents, the largest performing arts presenter in southern Arizona.
The new system, implemented just in time for a 42-show 2007-08 season (kicked off by Dionne Warwick in concert), was designed and installed by Arizona Pro Sound of Tucson, working with key venue staff, including Operations Manager Gary Lotze.
The system includes KF730 line arrays, each with 11 modules, flown left and right, while eight SB730 subwoofers (in groups of four) on the stage deck. Six EAW JF80 compact loudspeakers provide frontfill. All loudspeakers are driven by Lab.gruppen FP7000 power amplifiers, with a UX8800 processor handling all DSP in addition to providing Gunness Focusing technology for absolute pristine sonic performance.
 New England-based sound company SPL Systems recently added dual EAW UX8800 dual-mode digital processors with Gunness Focusing, as well as 12 EAW KF730small line array modules, to its live system inventory.
Located in West Springfield, Massachusetts and founded/owned by Bill Forbes, SPL Systems has been providing full production services for live concert performances, corporate events, fairs, festivals, and event promoters throughout New England for more than a decade. The company also performs top-notch system installation and integration services.
Continue reading "SPL Systems Bolsters Inventory With UX8800, KF730" »
 The EAW UMX.96 digital console is making its European touring debut as the Foreigner tour and FOH Engineer Don Dodge move "across the pond" for the next two months, beginning with a show in Glasgow, UK, this coming Friday (November 9). The tour will make about 20 stops in the UK, Denmark, Latvia, Estonia, Germany, Switzerland, Hungary and Austria, and there will also be a few dates in South Africa.
Click here to go directly to the Foreigner tour itinerary.
 Attention all UX8800 users: a new version of EAWPilot software (v1.0.46.52) has been posted and is now available via the Downloads page here at EAW.com.
With this new version, the "Reset Input Channel Settings" dialog only comes up if the greybox selection is changed - not for amplifier or listening distance adjustments. Also, spin controls are fixed on both delay and greybox high-pass and low-pass filters (for real, this time), while disabled low-pass filters now have the frequency "greyed" out.
Further, compressor threshold handles are once again available in system mode, front panel setting changes now display correctly, and auto-assign works in several more scenarios. Click here to go directly to the Downloads page.
NOTE: Several of these fixes will only work if you update to firmware
build 52!
 At ET Live, held in conjunction with LDI 2007 in Orlando next month (November), EAW will be unveiling a wide range of exciting new and pending product developments – all working together as a full-scale live concert reinforcement system!
The fun starts with the newest loudspeaker design from EAW (more about this soon), which will be joined by flown KF730 Series line arrays as well as prototypes of another new loudspeaker, with Gunness Focusing and all other DSP courtesy of UX8800 dual-mode digital processors.
 Low-end will be provided with new, soon-to-be-released EAW
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