New Organizational Structure for Musikmesse and Prolight+Sound Shows
Following criticism from exhibitors, the press and visitors regarding mixed results in the 2016 editions of the Prolight+Sound and Musikmesse shows, Messe Frankfurt announced a new organizational structure for optimum interlinkage of the two shows. Michael Biwer, previously responsible for Prolight+Sound, is now responsible for key account management and the strategic planning of both events, which will return to a more coordinate model in 2017.
Japanese Label UNAMAS Chooses MQA Format to Showcase Hi-Res Recordings
UNAMAS, the Japanese hi-res music label run by award-winning recording engineer, Mick Sawaguchi, has selected ten albums from their catalogue for encoding in MQA. The recordings, ranging from Schubert’s “Death and the Maiden” performed by the Unamas String Quintet, to Hiroshi Fukamizu’s “Everything for Drums”, will be available from July 15 on music download service, e-onkyo music, priced at ¥3.000 ($29 / £19) each.
Schertler “Build Your Own Mixer” Concept Now Available
Introduced at the 2016 Musikmesse show in Frankfurt, Schertler’s ARTHUR mixer created real excitement for the concept of a new self-configurable, modular audio mixer. Given the Swiss manufacturer’s reputation in instrument amplification and its recent expansion into the pro audio market with 500 series modules, the release of the ARTHUR (Format48) modular mixer promises to be an interesting initiative.
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audioXpress Acoustics in Focus August 2016 Edition Now Available!
As stated in this month’s editorial, “Acoustics are part of this magazine’s mission.” This month, apart from our regular Sound Control column, audioXpress features a complete Acoustical Solutions product round-up; an introduction to Artnovion, a new company in the acoustic treatment segment; addresses how to eliminate room reflections in woofer measurements; and discusses bass trap myths. audioXpress August 2016 also includes the High End 2016 show report and much more. Download your copy now!
Improved Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Wireless Now Available in White
Nearly a year on since British audio brand Bowers & Wilkins launched the new and improved Zeppelin Wireless speaker, it introduces the Zeppelin Wireless in white, offering a lighter complementary color to the original black speaker. Created to appeal to those who prefer a more neutral color tone, the instantly recognizable design renews the brand’s lifestyle catalogue with a portable speaker of exceptional sound quality for its size.
CyberData Corporation Releases Next Generation of SIP-enabled IP Speakers
While many audio companies are still dreaming about building IP speakers and other are still trying to understand audio-over-IP, some companies are already building a successful business model out of IP technology and power-over-Ethernet (PoE) installation speakers. OEM design and manufacturing firm CyberData Corporation announced the release of the latest generation of their line of SIP and Singlewire InformaCast enabled Speakers.
B&C Speakers Introduces New MBX Woofer Series
B&C Speakers has just introduced its new MBX series of mid-bass woofers, available in 6-inch, 8-inch, and 10-inch frame sizes. Designed as a solution for two way systems and multi-driver applications, according to the Italian manufacturer, the new MBX woofers offer a balance between low and mid frequency reproduction, with high sensitivity for reduced amplifier current requirements. All woofers feature a neodymium ring magnet, copper-clad aluminum voice coil wire, ventilated voice coil gap, and an aluminum demodulation ring.
Audient Introduces New iD4 24-bit/96kHz Compact Audio Interface with DAW Control
It’s very questionable that anyone would still be on the market for another USB 2.0 compact audio recording interface, given the market saturation and the transition to faster and lower-latency USB 3, Thunderbolt or even Ethernet alternatives already in the market. British company Audient believes there is still a chance and released the iD4, a single-channel unit featuring the company’s Class-A mic pre technology and good quality AD/DA converters for just $199.
Libratone Launches Libratone ONE Click Adaptable Portable Bluetooth Speaker
Libratone announced the launch of the Libratone ONE Click, a new portable speaker that fits easily into any bag and links seamlessly to mobile devices and other Libratone Bluetooth speakers. This new Bluetooth 4.1 speaker features the company’s signature 360° sound and Scandinavian design, and 12 hours of battery life. The ONE Click combines a 3” woofer, 1” tweeter and two passive drivers in a lightweight splash-proof chassis with protective rubber frame and interchangeable handles.
Worldwide Home Audio Market is Growing Thanks to Bluetooth Speakers
Futuresource Consulting has just completed their latest a round of research into the worldwide home audio market. The key findings indicate worldwide demand for home audio products continues to grow. New entrants Amazon and Google are creating innovation challenges to which the audio industry is responding, creating increasing consumer awareness for wireless speakers and connected applications. The report also confirms that, in 2015, Harman/JBL held the position of top home audio brand with an 11% unit share, whilst Bose was the leader in terms of revenue with an 18% share.