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Bringing Harman-ies Outdoors

by | Apr 25, 2023 | Outdoor AV, Pro Audio, Uncategorized

As I began putting thoughts down and mapping out my latest piece, it seemed quite obvious and fitting what I should be writing about.  It is the week after Easter, my kids are home from school on spring break, and it just so happens to be the nicest weather we have seen in NJ since September, with temps in the upper 80’s!  Oh, how I missed working with my office windows open!  With all of that in mind, I think back to a topic I recently wrote which discussed “Anywhere Audio”, as I had coined it.  In that piece, I discussed the varying types of portable and powered loudspeakers that seemed to blossom coming out of the pandemic as more people and activities were now outdoors.  So, as I sit here mapping out my latest plan, I thought it was important to expand on that.  The topic of outdoor audio is a lot more “wide encompassing” that even I thought and given that, I made the decision to “phone a friend” to discuss the topic even more.  Allow me to introduce you all to Dave Tewksbury, Product and Applications Sales Support at Harman Pro Solutions.  “Tewks”, as he is widely known around the industry, is not only a phenomenal resource and incredible friend to everyone who knows him, but he is also an accomplished singer and longtime audio enthusiast.  Simply put, I learn something new every time we speak!  So, with that, allow me to highlight our recent discussion around Harman and how they approach the Outdoor Audio Category.

To help set the stage for the conversation (pun intended!), Tewks recalled how he first got started in the world of Audio.  I will be the first to admit that I always assumed he was a singer who specifically chose to work at Harman, but his background is far greater than that.  As Tewks fondly recalled, he caught the “JBL Bug” as a young kid in Cincinnati.  His sister, who was a performer at the time, had taken him to their local music shop called Buddy Rogers.  The salesperson there had mentioned that JBL was one of the best they could get so that is where the discussion started.  Given that this was long before the times of powered loudspeakers, they would also need an amplifier to which the salesperson said “if you are using JBL, you MUST use Crown.  Those go hand in hand!”.  That is how it all started.  Since that day/interaction, Tewks has used nothing but JBL/Crown for all his audio needs which predates his employment at Harman.  That would come later down the road after first working at an integrator who also happened to be a major Crown/JBL partner as well as a local rep that turned out to be a rep for Harman.  The draw to these brands, outside of the name recognition, is that Tewks can emphasize these products have never steered him wrong.  As an avid musician, he has never blown a speaker, replace a driver or other components, and as a musician funds can be limited at times, this history of quality is something he will firmly standby.

As we steered the discussion into the outdoor category, Tewks was generous enough to peel back the curtain just enough to highlight Harman’s philosophies on quality and the thought process that goes into creating speakers that not only sound great but can withstand the harshest of elements outdoors.  When I think of what JBL does in the way of outdoor audio, it is quite impressive and expansive.  We could also spend a lot of time discussing the IP ratings of speakers and why they matter.  A speaker’s IP rating is generally 2 numbers that follow IP and each of those 2 numbers means something.  The first number is what they call intrusion protection such as dust, debris etc.  The second number is the moisture protection.  Simply put, on a scale of 1-6, the higher the number the better the protection would be.  So, if a loudspeaker was IP66, theoretically it would be totally protected against dust/debris and protected against strong jets of water such as on a cruise ship deck.

Because of these factors, I broke this category up into segments to help guide us:

JBL control 28-1Category 1: The Hybrid Indoor/Outdoor Speaker. A good example of this would be the Control 28-1.  This is a surface mount speaker with 8” driver and as the name implies, can be used both indoors and outdoors.  When using outdoors, I highly recommend using under a roof/awning and making sure it is not exposed to harsher elements such as salt water or freezing temps.  This speaker comes with an IP44 rating which means it offers average protection against water being splashed or objects like nails, etc that are unable to penetrate the grille.

JBL awc-129 bkCategory 2: All Weather. A good example of this would be the AWC129.  As the name implies AW=All Weather.  Highly weather resistant and perfect for outdoor applications such as sports stadiums or outdoor bars/cabins.  The AWC line comes with an IP56 rating, which means it is protected against small dust particles and strong jets of water and can be used in direct exposure.

eon one compact Category 3: Powered and Portable. This category houses some of JBL’s best selling speakers such as the Eon One Compact, PRX One, Eon 700 series and the brand new PRX900 Series.  While I do not recommend leaving these out in harsh environments or even getting splashed with water, they are regularly used for outdoor events, outdoor dining, fitness classes and more.  They also have optional transport cases and rugged cabinets to help prolong their lifespan.

Category 4: Performance Audio. This group may or may not be as obvious to everyone, but next time you are at an outdoor concert this summer, look on the stage and up in the rafters and you will see what I mean.  Whether it is the ever-popular VTX A Series or the newer SRX900 Series which happens to also be powered, JBL excels in this space.  VTX for example, carries an IP rating of IP55 and come with rugged enclosures with a Duraflex finish to make sure they last and perform well throughout a tour.  The SRX900, as mentioned previously is a newer, powered solution for performance use-cases.  This series comes with a similar IP54 rating, which places it right up in the ranks with the VTX and has a 16-guage perforated steel grille for added durability.  Needless to say, both models were meant for the outdoors!

Category 5: Landscape. One of JBL’s best-selling series is their Control 80 Series of landscape speakers.  These “mushroom” style speakers are green in color, so they help blend in with gardens or other landscapes as needed.  Highly weather resistant that also offer a 360-degree coverage for audio! This series comes with an ip-56 rating, so you know you will be getting long-term use of these.  JBL has recently expanded this category to include in-ground subwoofers and the new ground-stake speakers.  Combined with the Control 80 Series, they have an entire solution for landscape needs which are perfect for residential, hospitality, bar/restaurant and so many more!  Tewks highlighted how he uses 4 of the Control 85’s in his own backyard and says, “you don’t need to have ears on your kneecaps for these to sound good”.  Meaning, they perfected the ability to get highs, mids, and lows up to your listening levels through a down firing speaker.  It’s really incredible!

As we discussed through these, Tewks emphasized how Harman listens to their customers.  A void in this category for many years were speakers that could be used in dessert climates such as Arizona, so with that, Harman rolled out a green and a brown colorway in their ground stakes so more customers could utilize.  Another point of emphasis was how they always strive to be ahead of the trends/needs of their customers.  I referenced the recent surge we saw in outdoor audio needs from 2020 to now, and Tewks reminded me that it takes 4, 5, or even 6 years to fully develop a new product so with that in mind it was clear that Harman placed an emphasis on this category well before the need even was present.

While I could talk about speakers with Tewks for hours on end, I think our discussion painted a good picture of where this idea of “outdoor audio” is headed.  While I chose to mainly emphasize speakers here, let us not forget what else could be needed.  If not using a powered loudspeaker we certainly need amplifiers, mixers, and the obvious microphone to go along with it.  However, I come from the belief that none of those will matter if you don’t have the proper speakers.  You have 4 main components to any audio system as I just highlighted and if one is sub-par or incorrect for the desired use and atmosphere, the whole system will fail.

Next time you are involved in any project requiring outdoor audio, I caution to do your homework and ask the right questions to determine what is needed.  Hopefully you understand IP ratings a little bit more now and can decipher which type of outdoor speaker could be used for a given project.  JBL and Harman is certainly a great place to start!

Enjoy this blog?
Let Rob know over on LinkedIn …and/or connect with #ExertisAlmo on our LinkedIn company page.

Robert Voorhees
About the Author

Rob Voorhees | CTS, CTP, DSCE, CTNS, Dante

Business Development Manager

Supported Manufacturers: Business Communications Services, and Harman: AKG, AMX, BSS, Crown, DBX, JBL, Soundcraft, Martin Lighting

Project Questions and Needs Analysis

by | Mar 23, 2023 | Pro Audio, Uncategorized

“I’ve never seen two of the same room” is a phrase I’ve often used when it comes to audio-visual designs and requirements. That was true until just the other day, when I had five small Huddle rooms in one project, each seating three people and averaging 70 sq. feet. A display and a videoconferencing bar and you’re done.

But, until that project with the Huddle rooms, that phrase has been true for the almost four decades that I’ve been in this industry. While there are some commonalities to almost all spaces, such as sharing computer images, software-based conferencing, microphones, and loudspeakers, each room is a little different in size, furniture layout, and participant positions.

An audio-visual design begins with information. Architectural drawings, dimensions, pictures, and expected room layouts are always needed to assess the room you’re working with. Photos and finish schedules in the architectural drawings will list the materials used in the room (ceiling, walls, floors, furnishings) and that will help reveal if there may be acoustical or installation challenges. However, you can only “guess” some possible aspects of the room. Realistically, nothing beats a proper site visit for assessing the environment. The firm responsible for integration will need to visit the site to document and/or confirm certain assumptions that may have been made about the suitability of the space. Site visits require measurement (not just the physical measurements of L x W x H, but also background noise level and ambient light measurements) and getting your head above the drop tile ceiling to determine clearances and obstacles. If the site visit exposes some issues that hinder the effectiveness of an audiovisual system, recommending changes such as motorized shades or blinds, acoustical treatments, changes to the lighting, raising the drop tile ceiling at the front of the room, etc., may be required.

More critical information is gathered when you meet with the end users and other stakeholders to discover their processes and activities. This is part of Needs Analysis and the goal is to discover what the end users are trying to do. Questions are open-ended and focus on process. They do not focus on equipment. A non-technical Functional Description is written to describe how the system works and how it addresses the end users’ needs. While a Functional Description and a Scope of Work are often confused, they are two completely different documents. A Functional Scope describes the system’s capabilities and what the system will do. A Scope of Work describes what the integrator is responsible to do and a Scope is part of a contract and includes specific deliverables.

Equipment is determined only after you have arrived at a good understanding of their processes and needs.

Some of the questions would normally include:

  • What is the purpose of the space?
  • What are the typical furniture layouts and participant locations?
  • How many participants are there?
  • Where will the presenter(s) be located?
  • Will there be multiple presenters?
  • What are the materials being shown?
    • (PowerPoint, videos, graphics, art, medical images, hardcopy materials, satellite or TV, etc.)
  • What types of sources do those materials use?
    • (Laptops, resident room PC, CD/DVD, USB drives, SD cards, network sources, etc.)
  • Besides the presenter(s), will any of the participants need to share materials?
  • What types of sources will the participants be using?
  • How many sources need to be seen simultaneously?
  • Besides the above, are there any other audio sources?  (Bluetooth, etc.)
  • Depending on room size, will in-room voice reinforcement (“voice-lift”) of the presenter(s) be needed?
  • If wireless microphones are requested, a location may be required in order to select an appropriate frequency range.
  • Who is actually using the system?
    • (The participants or is there technical assistance?)
  • Will there be web-based conferencing with remote participants?
  • Will the remote participants need to interact with the in-person participants?
  • Is streaming required?

Additional questions:

  • Is there a system currently in the space?
  • If so, what do you like about the current system?
  • What do you dislike about the current system?
  • Is there something you wish you could do, but the current system won’t allow it?
  • Who are the people involved in the project?
    • (Owner, committee, facility manager, IT, end users, etc.)

 Infrastructure issues can include:

  • Electrical (circuits and wiring pathways), IT, acoustical, structural, lighting, mechanical (equipment cooling and maximum background noise).

 Very important:

  • Has the budget been established for this project?
    • If the budget appears woefully inadequate, it’s possible that the project is not feasible.

There are as many ways to design a system as there are equipment manufacturers. Even two skilled designers sitting next to each other may come up with two different ways to approach the same room. In the end, it’s a collaborative effort between audiovisual designers, end users, Information Technology, management, architects, and other building design professionals, all working together for a successful outcome.

Want to know more?
 Attend the 2023 E4Experience in a city near you, and take one or both of Tom’s courses on “Conducting a Needs Analysis” and “Conducting a Proper Site Survey” to earn up to 2 AVIXA CTS RUs.

Did you find this post helpful?
Engage with us over on LinkedIn.

Tom Kehr

About the Author

Tom Kehr

CTS-D, CTS-I, Network+, LEED Green Associate, ISF-C, ATD Master Trainer

In-House System Designer and Trainer

Supported Applications: System Design

DECT Wireless Technology…Where does it fit?

by | Mar 10, 2023 | Pro Audio, Uncategorized

Wireless Frequencies

With the ever-decreasing bandwidth associated with wireless microphone technology in the UHF band, other wireless bands had to be explored. There is the VHF (Very High Frequency) band with a range of between 25 and 300 MHz, with most of this now unlicensed for wireless microphone operation. Then there is the 900 Mhz band. This falls into the 900-928Mhz range and is used frequently, although restricted by internet service providers who have established networks in this range. The UHF band, which operates in the 400 Mhz to 900 Mhz range. UHF has been widely used for various types of wireless microphones as well as other commercial communications. UHF was severely impacted by a FCC ruling that effectively banned any wireless microphones in 698 to 806 MHz portion of the UHF spectrum in 2010. Then in 2020, largely restricted this further to 600 MHz or above.

This portion of the wireless spectrum is now controlled for UHF TV broadcast and commercial use only. Then there is 2.4Ghz, which is allowed to operate within the 2.400 Ghz and 2.483 Ghz only. As you might imagine, this portion is also heavily used by Wi-Fi devices, which can cause unwanted dropouts as well as low component use, typically 4 units or less.

Finally, we come to DECT, which stands for “Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications” and was originally launched in 1993. This operates in the 1880-1900 MHz band with channels available from 1881.792 to 1897.344 MHz with a gap at 1728 MHz. In the United States, the DECT frequency allocation is 1920 to 1930 MHz. This is now commonly referred to as DECT 6.0. This band will not interfere with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi technologies and allows for significant channel counts to be used.

Why DECT?

This technology virtually eliminates interference from other wireless devices and connectivity up to 350 feet. In some cases, this system can also use high channel density with up to 96 microphones capacity. The downside is that the system requires it’s own wireless network with access point and repeaters in some cases. There is additional cost for this equipment, but for larger systems, it is offset by the functionality of the system. Also, no other devices use this portion of the wireless spectrum.

The only other disadvantage that must be understood with DECT is the TDMA (Time-Division Multiple Access) technology it uses. There is an inherent delay or latency with the system, as each device must connect to a predefined time slot. This delay or latency is typically 18-20ms between the input of a microphone to the output of the access point. This can impact live applications and must be understood as part of any DECT system. For UC usage, it is unlikely that is would ever be noticed as there is already inherent delay for any UC communication.

According to Holger Stolze of Yamaha UC, “The problem of latency can be controlled by where the loudspeakers are placed with respect to the microphones in a voice lift scenario, and therefore DECT devices are not typically recommended for performance use such as singing or other live performance applications.”

church audio solutions

So, with this understanding, DECT has quickly become the most widely used wireless technology for conference applications. Also, in many instances, the manufacturer will assist with applications, access point, and/or repeater location and how the system should be set up for the intended use. Panasonic Professional has a team of engineers who will provide a complete set of instructions, programming notes, and even room diagrams to assure the system functions properly. Petro Shimonishi of Panasonic US tells it this way:

church audio solutions

“Panasonic leverages our 30+ year history of innovation and leadership in DECT wireless technology. These products have been designed with the end-user in mind. The system can even be integrated with our PTZ cameras to allow for voice triggered camera presets for a more seamless conference experience.”

Finally, the other real advantage of DECT over other more prominent wireless microphones like UHF is that it does not require frequency coordination, as it is automatically managed by the number of microphones in a given system. This is unlike UHF, which requires careful and sometimes difficult frequency coordination where multiple channels are used or where adjacent units can bleed into the spectrum, causing unwanted dropouts or interference.

The bottom line here is the DECT wireless has quickly become the gold standard for teleconference and videoconference applications. Excellent sound quality and ease of use keep these products in high demand. When you think of conference applications and need a wireless solution, contact your Exertis Almo representative or visit ExertisAlmo.com. Our Audio Team has all the right tools for your application with products by Shure, Sennheiser, Audio Technica, and Panasonic, just to name a few. We are always ready to assist you with the very best solutions for your project.

References:

John Fuqua
About the Author

John Fuqua | CTS, Dante

Business Development Manager

Supported Manufacturers: Audio Applications, Amplivox, Audix, Bose, Denon, Marantz, Rane, Shure, Sennheiser, Yamaha UC

Sound System Engineering: an interview with Pat & Brenda Brown

by | Jan 26, 2023 | Pro Audio, Uncategorized

Tom Kehr, Systems Designer and Trainer at Exertis Almo and host of the “Tech Tips” video series, leads and in-depth discussion with Pat and Brenda Brown of Synergetic Audio Concepts, regarding the Pro AV industry’s “identity crisis” and the importance of Synergetic Audio Concepts in audio-visual training.

Covering the various types of SAC educational courses, the history of audio engineering and training, recruiting new talent in the audio industry, and more, the video interview provides important insight into one of the most valuable training resources.

Tom Kehr
About the Author

Tom Kehr  

CTS-D, CTS-I, Network+, LEED Green Associate, ISF-C, ATD Master Trainer
In-House System Designer and Trainer
Supported Applications: System Design

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Assistive Listening…Have You Heard the Latest?

by | Jan 19, 2023 | Pro Audio, Uncategorized

Most of us take hearing for granted these days. However, a large portion of the population in the U.S. (about 38% of those aged 12 or older) have some form of hearing loss. This equates to 1 in 8 people with some form of hearing loss. As a sound engineer who has relied on my ears for 30+ years working in the AV industry, I feel we need to take every step possible to assure those around us can hear as clearly as possible. There are more effective assistive listening technologies than ever before available today.

graph assistive listening

In the AV industry, we are in a unique position to promote products that can provide the hearing assistance needed by so many people. The choices range from loop systems to FM, IR, Bluetooth, digital, and Wi-Fi based systems, with the Wi-Fi systems gaining popularity as they allow the user to incorporate their own personal phone without need of an additional device. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) also requires public spaces to provide ALS (Assistive Listening System) to accommodate those who require it.

Not only do we provide audio systems that can amplify all content to an audience, but we also have tools to help those with more acute hearing loss. Intelligibility is one of the leading issues that ALS can help to overcome. Sound systems provide overall sound level increases but to those with hearing loss, the intelligibility of the human voice can still be a problem.

ALS systems can also have other uses. Tour guide systems and Interpretation Systems also use this technology very effectively. Let’s explore the latest technology available and how it can be both a vital addition to any audio system, as well as profit center for the integrator. The most recent addition to ALS is the BYOD solution, such as ListenEVERYWHERE® by Listen Technologies. This system utilizes Wi-Fi technology for use with any user’s personal smart device or a proprietary smart device provided, should a user require it. By using their own device, the ALS can be seamless, flexible, and invisible. This is much more desirable than a solution that forces them to use a receiver for a proprietary system.

According to Sam Nord, VP of Global Channel Sales for Listen Technologies, “Listen Everywhere has broadened the ability of venues to offer assistive listening because it allows users to choose the method in which they want to be accommodated. For example, we’ve seen a huge interest in Wi-Fi based assistive listening technology in the education sector, where so many of the students are already smartphone users, so accessing assistive listening via their Smart device is often a preferred method compared to having to ask for a hardware device and the logistics that sometimes go along with that. Similarly, in the House of Worship market, Wi-Fi based assistive listening allows venues to offer assistive listening to a much larger portion of their congregations than a hardware based system since anyone with a smart device now has access to the system. That said, the availability of Wi-Fi receivers allows those patrons who prefer to use a separate device for assistive listening to be accommodated as well.”

This has addressed some of the hurdles that remain, regarding where ALS systems are required. There is still some confusion about this. The ADA requirements vary from state to state and for different venues as well. Education, performing arts, government, and most public spaces base their system requirements on the number of attendees or a ratio of the total seating capacities. Churches, in many cases, also provide ALS systems as a part of their ministry, even if they are not required. With the more conventional systems, the facility was required to purchase a system with a percentage of receivers that are made available to those who need them. This tends to draw attention to users, and in many cases, causes some to avoid getting the hearing assistance they really need.

“The more the AV industry understands about this technology and provides for their customers rather than just checking a box of being ADA compliant, the more widely ALS will be used,” Nord continues. “With assistive listening, to make sure we are accommodating those who need this important technology, the one thing I always evangelize is being proactive in pushing assistive listening rather than being reactive. If you are specifying speakers, microphones, or other audio technology into a project, there is a high probability that there are folks who will be utilizing that system who would benefit from an assistive listening system, so ensuring there is a system available is the best thing you can do to encourage inclusion.”

The main point here is that ALS should be considered a part of any audio system in a venue when the system is in the design phase, just like loudspeakers, amplifiers, or any other components. As the AV industry fully understands the benefit of the assistive listening systems, this will encourage inclusion for all who attend an event, go to church, and learn in a classroom.

church audio solutions

The next step is easy…Contact Exertis Almo and we can assist with any Assistive Listening Technology you may need for your project or facility. We can provide complete design support and connect you with companies like Listen Technologies to assure you have the best solution for any application. There are many new products on the horizon and 2023 will include some compelling upgrades to offer even further capability for this vital technology.

References:
American Journal of Public Health
Sam Nord, VP of Global Channel Sales for Listen Technologies
John Fuqua

About the Author

John Fuqua | CTS, Dante

Business Development Manager

Supported Manufacturers: Audio Applications, Amplivox, Audix, Bose, Denon, Marantz, Rane, Shure, Sennheiser, Yamaha UC

How to Leverage Live Product Demos to Grow Your Business

by | Dec 27, 2022 | Pro Audio, Uncategorized

When it comes to audio technology, hearing is believing. And in the age of hybrid learning and collaboration, audio quality is essential in creating a fair experience for both remote and in-person participants.

Although audio-conferencing technology is often considered complicated and costly, Nureva has developed groundbreaking solutions that deliver simplicity and value with top-notch quality. To better connect resellers with the capabilities of their audio systems prior to purchasing, Nureva experts host free product demos for resellers interested in their products – broadcast live, every day.

By hosting live product demos on a frequent and accessible schedule, Nureva ensures that viewers experience a first-hand look at their innovative audio solutions. Along with in-person demos, these remote sessions are a great first step in allowing attendees to understand Nureva’s technology in action, as they serve as a simple and effective introduction to a product.

sound targeting

During a 15-minute live product demo, Nureva experts provide resellers with an interactive, first-hand listen of the revolutionary patented Microphone Mist™ technology in a real space with glass walls and HVAC. Additionally, the demos allow listeners to hear the microphone pickup everywhere in the space and give examples of how specific organizations can benefit from their solutions. And with no pressure to purchase, resellers are encouraged to ask questions during the demonstration to determine if they would like to request additional details and information.

In fact, scheduling and attending a virtual demo from Nureva couldn’t be simpler. By visiting Nureva’s website, prospective attendees can choose from a variety of time slots on a preferred date. In fact, Nureva provides dealers with the option to mirror the official demo calendar on their own websites to encourage more widespread education about Nureva technology – a great value-added service!

So, how valuable are these live product demos? While audio quality is subjective and greatly depends on a specific listener’s goals, Nureva experts focus their demonstrations on more concrete product details, like auto-calibration and quick installation. And since Nureva’s patented Microphone Mist™ technology works in conjunction with other products, these demos serve as an excellent opportunity to show how Nureva pairs with additional communication devices, like projectors and cameras.

Although it’s too soon to track the success rate of in-person demos, Nureva’s virtual demos have a 1 out of 2 close rate, which shows the undeniable importance of live educational opportunities for prospective dealers and resellers.

For those looking to book a demo with Nureva, simply click here to pick a date.

Have any questions?

Feel free to reach out to me – HERE.

Angie Greene
About the Author

Angie Greene | DSCE

Business Development Manager

Supported Manufacturers: ScreenBeam and Panasonic

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