New Products (Apr 2005)

Apr 1, 2005 12:00 PM, By Kari Taylor, associate editor

The NAB convention is so big, we divided our new product preview into two issues. We have also provided the exhibitors’ booth numbers to help you find them at the convention. For more NAB information, turn to the March issue, which includes the exclusive Radio magazine FASTtrack and a map of the Radio/Audio Hall.

Cardioid condenser mic
Booth N3322
Audio-Technica
AT2020: This side-address condenser microphone features a custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm, providing extended frequency response plus the ability to handle high SPLs. The mic has a fixed, cardioid polar pattern to allow isolation of the desired sound source and features a flat, extended frequency response (20Hz to 20kHz), high SPL handling capability (144dB) and a dynamic range of 124dB. The microphone requires 48V phantom power and output from the mic is via a low-impedance, three-pin XLR connector.
330-686-2600
fax 330-686-0719
www.audio-technica.com
pro@atus.com

CD player/Minidisc recorder
Booth SL1516
Tascam
MD-CD1: Combining CD playback and Minidisc recording in 1RU saves rack space and installation budgets. The unit features 12 percent pitch control, MP3 CD playback, RS-232 control and an optional balanced I/O board. The unit also offers RS-232 control, digital I/O and an optional I/O board for balanced interfacing. CDs can be played back at 12 percent higher or lower, and speed can be adjusted without affecting the pitch of the source. Discs can be duplicated from CD to Minidisc at up to 4x speed, and a wireless IR remote is included.
323-726-0303
fax 323-727-7635
www.tascam.com
tascamlit@tascam.com

Audio processors
Booth N2802
Wheatstone
Audio processor series: The two-channel, stereo audio processor provides an array of analog and digital inputs and outputs, a four-band parametric EQ, three-band compressor, and tunable filters along with overall AGC, limiting and expansion. All settings can be stored and replayed as password-protected presets. The front-panel display includes input, output and gain-reduction meters. Remote monitoring and operational control is possible using Ethernet-enabled GUI software.
252-638-7000
fax 252-637-1285
www.wheatstone.com
sales@wheatstone.com

Recordable discs
Booth N2822A
HHB
1x-12x CR-R: Unlike conventional media, these discs are optimized for low speed 1x to 12x writers. The discs deliver low block-error rates and low jitter in audio recording applications, while improving economy by reducing the operating stress on the lower-powered lasers used by audio CD recorders. The CD-R discs replace the existing 1x to 24x discs in an HHB Professional Recording Media range that also includes CD-RW, DVD-R, DVD-RAM, Mini Disc, MO, DAT, ADAT and DTRS formats.
310-319-1111
fax 310-319-1311
www.hhbusa.com
sales@hhbusa.com

Expansion series
Booth N3602
Burk Technology
G-Link G-Bus: By adding G-Link products to a new or existing GSC3000 system, broadcasters can monitor facility conditions with plug-and-play convenience. The AC-4 and AC-8 power strip controllers are for remote management of 120V inputs such as HVAC appliances, lighting and computers. G-Link emphasizes economies of scale by integrating all remote facility monitoring on a platform and using the same software and Web-based interfaces as the GSC3000.
800-255-8090
fax 978-486-0081
www.burk.com
sales@burk.com

DSP audio processor
Booth N4006
Symetrix
Air Tools Orion 8088: Dubbed Orion 8×8 Analog I/O DSP, this processor offers eight line-level analog inputs and outputs. The processor uses a pair of analog 66MHz SHARC processors to create virtual audio pathways and processing modules that replicate dedicated hardware devices in the physical world. The Studio Matrix Designer application creates these signal routes and processing chains on a Windows PC. Parameter settings can be assigned to any of the 1,000 onboard preset locations and recalled on demand via RS-232 commands from the stations automation package. Audio routing between units is handled via the Symlink bus. This proprietary interconnect supports the free exchange of 64 channels of audio and control through CAT-5 cable.
425-787-3222
fax 425-787-3211
www.symetrixaudio.com
symetrix@symetrixaudio.com

Digital on-air console
Booth C1907, C3607A
Harris
VSDM-II: This console features a digital mixing architecture and supports analog and digital inputs and outputs to allow stations to transition to digital on their time frame. Smaller than the RMX Digital on-air console, the new console focuses on small market radio stations and smaller studio applications for larger markets.
800-622-0022
fax 513-459-3890
www.broadcast.harris.com
broadcast@harris.com

Active monitors
Booth N1726, SL1143
Genelec
8000 MDE series: This series of bi-amplified active monitors is comprised of three models: the 8030A, 8040A and 8050A. These speakers feature rounded edges and curved front and sides and use an aluminum MDE design. The 8030A, the smallest of the series, features a 5″ bass driver along with a 3/4″ tweeter. Its frequency response is 58Hz to 20kHz (+/-2dB). Peak SPL per pair is 108dB, driven by a pair of 40W amplifiers. The 8040A incorporates a 6″ woofer and a 3/4″ tweeter. Its frequency response is 48Hz to 20kHz (+/-2dB). Peak SPL per pair is 115dB, achieved using 90W amplifiers for each driver. The 8050A is the largest model. It uses an 8″ bass driver and a 1″ tweeter. This speaker produces peak SPLs of 120dB with a free-field frequency response of 38Hz to 20kHz (+/-2dB). Bass and treble amplification is 150W and 120W.
508-652-0900
fax 508-652-0909
www.genelec.com
genelec.usa@genelec.com

Audio codec
Booth N2118
Comrex
Access: BRIC technology enables broadcasters to use a variety of commonly available Internet access points to broadcast high quality, real-time audio. Access is capable of using wired circuits like DSL, cable, POTS and frame relay as well as wireless circuits such as Wi-fi, 1XRTT, Edge and 3G data networks. The codec will be available as rack mount and portable units. Capable of providing voice quality connections over IP connections, the codec also offers a stereo mode that offers optimized performance when used on managed data networks.
800-237-1776
fax 978-784-1717
www.comrex.com
info@comrex.com

Transient voltage surge suppression
Booth C10521
MGE UPS Systems
Eclipse-T: This commercial transient-voltage surge suppression (TVSS) equipment is a complement to the company’s line of uninterruptible power supplies (UPS). The surge suppressor series includes six products with single- and three-phase models offering peak capacities ranging from 100kA to 500kA in modular and non-modular panels. All models feature an audible alarm, LED indicators and dry contacts to notify users of system status, as well as individually fused metal-oxide varistors for optimized protection. Most models also include a surge counter (excluding the E-T100W) and a lightning temp fuse to prevent thermal runaway if MOVs are damaged.
800-523-0142
fax 714-557-9788
www.mgeups.com
info@mgeups.com

Phone plugs
Booth C5137
Neutrik
NP*X: Previously introduced as the C+ series, these 1/4″ phone plugs offer a chuck-type strain relief that provides higher cable retention force. The phone plugs are all-metal and available in mono and stereo versions with nickel- or gold-plated contacts and nickel, black or velour chrome housings.
732-901-9488
fax 732-901-9608
www.neutrik.com
info@neutrikusa.com

A/D-D/A converters
Booth SU8972
Lynx Studio Technology
Aurora 8 and Aurora 16: These digital audio converters offer eight and 16 channel models in 1RU. Both converters feature 192kHz A/D-D/A conversion with front panel control of all routing and sample rate options. Extended functions are accessible via computer with the Lynx AES16 or by infrared using compatible laptops and hand-held Pocket PCs. The rear panel has MIDI in and out connectors and an L-slot bay, for the use of optional ADAT, Firewire and other audio interface cards. The most popular rates are selectable: 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4 and 192kHz.
949-515-8265 x205
fax 949-645-8470
www.lynxstudio.com
sales@lynxstudio.com

Signal generator
Booth C2633
Rohde and Schwarz
SML: The fields of application of the SML are unlimited in development, servicing or production when it is used as a flexible signal source in automatic test systems and is available with stereo coder option. The unit offers 9kHz to 1.1GHz/2.2GHz/3.3GHz with SSB phase noise of less than -122dBc (1Hz).
410-910-7800
fax 410-910-7801
www.rohde-schwarz.com
info@rsa.rohde-schwarz.com

Audio network interface
Booth N806
Sierra Automated Systems
ANI750: The ANI-750 audio network interface for the 32KD digital audio router/mixer links multiple 32KD frames via fiber. Using a dual, counter-rotating ring for reliability, the interface provides static and dynamic sharing of 750 channels.
818-840-6749
fax 818-840-6751
www.sasaudio.com
sales@sasaudio.com

Data software
Booth N1802
Broadcast Electronics
Data 110, Data 120: New are the Data 110 software application for basic RBDS and Web text of “now playing” information and the comprehensive Data 120 application with several features for advanced data over FM, HD Radio and the Internet.
217-224-9600
fax 217-224-9607
www.bdcast.com
bdcast@bdcast.com

PCI time code interface
Booth C2639
ESE
PC-273PCI: A time code interface card for PC computers, this product receives a variety of IRIG and ASCII time codes. Using the supplied software the interface will automatically synchronize the PC’s internal time-of-day clock. The time code input is provided via a rear-mounted BNC connector. Included is a Windows software application that allows time code selection, time zone offset and time frequency update.
310-322-2136
fax 310-322-8127
www.ese-web.com
ESE@ese-web.com

Digital audio leveler
Booth N322
Translantech Sound
Ariane Sequel: Like its analog predecessor, this leveler features the company’s sum-and-difference processing. The audio processing path is fully digital, not a hybrid analog/digital design. It provides independent two-channel and stereo-linked modes, protection limiting, input and output level metering, TCP/IP and RS-232 remote control, and software upgrade capability.
212-222-0330
www.translantech.com
david@translantech.com

Dynamic studio mic
Booth N2822
Neumann
BCM 705: This mic uses a redesigned version of the Profi Power Sennheiser MD 431 hand-held stage microphone and capsule. Housed in the same body as the previously introduced BCM 104, this mic is identifiable as a Neumann dynamic microphone by its new green Neumann badge. To enhance low frequencies, the entire chamber surrounding the capsule has been enlarged and acoustically coupled to a rear entrance port. The same wire mesh pop screen principles used in the BCM 104 microphones are used in this mic, thus removing the need for foam in front of the capsule. Individual, color-coded head grilles are available for each user. The microphone in its mount is elastically suspended and compatible via standard broadcast-segment microphone arms.
860-434-5220
fax 860-434-3148
www.neumannusa.com
neumlit@neumannusa.com

Digital FM antenna
Booth C7807
Dielectric
HD Plus: Easily integrated alongside existing analog FM antennas, this antenna allows the station to continue its analog broadcast while also adding a digital broadcast of the same signal at the same frequency. Special design considerations between the analog and digital antenna bays provide for isolation that exceeds 40dB; 10 percent more than the 36dB required by the FCC. Because of this isolation from the antenna, the need for a supplemental isolator in the system is removed.
800-341-9678
fax 207-655-7120
www.dielectric.com
dcsales@dielectric.com

Broadcast power monitor
Booth N1116
Bird Electronic
BPM-E: This system offers users more options in how they measure, monitor and protect their RF transmission systems while providing dependable performance and accuracy. Its RF test port enables users to verify spectral compliance for many applications, including IBOC. Features of this system include alarm detection and notification, instant e-mail alerts, remote power/VSWR monitoring and administration, RF test port, access to historical data through data logging, and a small footprint for minimal rack space.
440-519-2062
fax 440-248-3790
www.bird-electronic.com
sales@bird-electronic.com

Analog on-air console
Booth N2802
Audioarts Engineering
R-55E: Tailored for mid- to small-markets this console provides illuminated LED switches and a flip-up meterbridge that provides direct access to I/O connectors. Logic programming dip-switches complement the modular, low profile countertop design. The unit offers two stereo program busses, two mono busses, optional telephone caller input and opto-isolated logic control with a built-in machine interface. Additional options include a six-input stereo line preselector module, a dual failsafe power supply system and remote tape modules. The compact console is available in a nine-, 13- or 21-fader mainframe.
252-638-7000
fax 252-637-1285
www.wheatstone.com
sales@wheatstone.com

Side-mounted FM antenna
Booth C3031
RFS Broadcast
CPF: Featuring a stainless construction, the single-channel antenna is available with a power rating of 500W (CPF500) or 2.5kW (CPF2500) and is a lightweight solution for low- to medium-power applications in the 87.5MHz to 108MHz band. The antenna is an incarnation of RFS’s ECFM antenna, with extended power range. The radiation pattern and axial ratio of the side-mounted CPF-series has been enhanced to minimize tower effects and downward radiation.
877-737 9675
fax 203-821-3852
www.rfsworld.com
literature.americas@rfsworld.com

Cell phone codec
Booth N4524
ATA Audio
Scoop-EZ Tri-band GSM: The new module now includes the 900MHz to 1.9GHz bands. This allows the unit to be used in the Americas, Europe and Asia without the worry of which GSM module is needed. Users insert a GSM Sim card into the module and dial back to the studio. The module will automatically detect the band and service that is available.
973-288-8009
fax 973-659-9555
www.aetausa.com
info@aetausa.com

Audio restoration software
Booth SL3345
Bias
Soundsoap 2: Soundsoap scrubs audio clean reducing tape hiss, clicks and crackles, buzzing and hum, rumble and most other types of unwanted noise. This software is useful when archiving a record collection to CD. The software will buff out any scratches. Soundsoap uses advanced technology to clean audio. Click the “learn noise” button, and the software cleans the audio. Users can fine-tune the software for enhanced results.
800-775-2427
www.bias-inc.com

Voice processor
Booth N1815
Aphex Systems
230: Features of this voice processor include a reflected plate amplifier tube mic preamp, an easy rider compressor, a logic-assisted gate, split band de-esser and an aural exciter. The processor offers +4dBu and -10dBV outputs, as well as 24-bit/96kHz A/D AES, S/PDIF and optical outputs. Low-jitter word clock output, word clock input and a cough switch (soft mute) are also features of this unit.
818-767-2929
fax 818-767-2641
www.aphex.com
sales@aphex.com

Portable recorder
Booth N313
Marantz
PMD660: Featuring a built-in condenser microphone with automatic level control, one-touch digital recording to Compact Flash cards, on-board editing with segment marking, a virtual track mode for playback and instant audio access to the preset marked points, the recorder can record for four hours running on four standard AA batteries. The recorder is a solid-state media recorder with one-touch digital recording. Uncompressed WAV files can be recorded at 44.1kHz or 48kHz, and MP3 files can be recorded in mono at 64kb/s or in stereo at 128kb/s.
630-741-0330
fax 630-741-0652
www.d-mpro.com
info@d-mpro.com

Digital antenna system
Booth C9229
Propagation Systems
IBOC antenna: These FM antennas and FM antenna/combiner combinations are designed for FM broadcasters looking to initiate IBOC FM broadcasting. PSI can supply the entire RF package of transmission line, combiners and antennas. In the separate amplification approach, PSI can supply FM antennas using the Double V, Power-Tiller or multiple varieties of panel antennas for single or multiple station applications. The company also provides the combiner and reject load necessary for this approach. In the separate antenna approach, PSI has several antenna types available to suit the broadcaster’s needs.
814-472-5540
fax 814-472-5676
www.psibroadcast.com
psiba@surfshop.net

Time shifter
Booth N2432
25-Seven
Audio Time Manager: ATM allows users to delay the start of live programs and shorten their duration, in real-time, to accommodate unexpected events or create additional availabilities on an on-going basis. Its time compression technology is clean enough to conservatively add about three minutes per hour to a schedule. Depending on the program source, users can more than double that and still maintain acceptable broadcast spoken language quality. The scheduler does not remove important content, change pitch, damage inflection or create artifacts. It integrates into digital and analog radio facilities providing smooth content insertions, network rejoins and broadcast delays.
888-257-2578
www.25-seven.com
info@25-seven.com

Multichannel sound card
Booth N1426
Digigram
PCX1222HR: Featuring one stereo input and six stereo outputs in balanced analog and AES/EBU formats in a short-length PCI card, the sound card is targeted at mission-critical live-assist systems in radio. The card features 24-bit/192kHz converters, a comprehensive set of drivers, hardware sample-rate converters, a 66MHz/64-bit PCI interface, a more powerful on-board DSP and greater flexibility for custom developments. I/O connections are available on a breakout cable or a rack mountable external breakout box.
703-875-9100
fax 703-875-9161
www.digigram.com
input@digigram.com

Stereo audio meter
Booth N2302
DK Technologies
MSD100C: By providing only three presets from which to choose, the daily operation of this meter is simplified for the user. It provides two PPMs analog input mode, two PPMs digital input mode and four PPMs both analog and digital mode. The meter features a color VGA screen and comes with two audio input pairs: one stereo analog and one AES-3 digital input channel. It accepts 96kHz on the digital input and has 24-bit A/D. The meter also incorporates a Goniometer (Audio Vector Oscilloscope) and a phasemeter. The meter supports multiple PPM standards. Other features include a level meter with user-definable scales and reference levels and a wall plug power supply.
+45 4485 0255
fax +45 4485 0250
www.dk-technologies.com
info@dk-technologies.com

Rackmount digital hybrid
Booth N3926
JK Audio
PBXport Digital Hybrid: This digital hybrid is capable of providing talk show-quality caller audio from a PBX phone system. The system allows the user to send mic- or line-level signals into a PBX telephone system while maintaining separation between the host’s voice and the caller. The balanced XLR output jack contains only the caller’s voice allowing full-duplex voice conferencing through the existing PBX phone system without echo and feedback. The unit provides connections for a microphone, headphones, mixer, telephone handset and a telephone set. The digital hybrid sends an audio signal into the PBX telephone system through the telephone handset cord. The digital signal processor continuously monitors the transmit and receive audio signals to deliver consistent separation.
800-552-8346
fax 815-786-8502
www.jkaudio.com
info@jkaudio.com

Logger
Booth N1111
Pristine Systems
Blackbox: Blackbox digital audio logger, monitor and alert system is an audio logging product to meet compliance, proof, audit, programming, management and engineering needs. As many as 16 stereo or 32 virtual mono channels of logging are available. Choose from a variety of WAV audio devices, and AM and FM tuner boards. Most audio storage formats are supported. Time-based and microphone skimmer modes are included. A virtual radio player allows switching between multiple stations during playback as though listening to a radio in real-time.
310-831-2234
fax 310-831-6287
www.pristinesys.com
sales@pristinesys.com

Single-phase UPS
Booth C1207
Staco Energy Products
Unistar SX: A solid-state UPS, the unit provides continuously regulated output voltage. For maximum flexibility, the system will operate over a wide input voltage range at 50Hz or 60Hz. Standard output voltages are user selectable. The system provides output voltage and frequency regulation, harmonic filtration, electrical noise attenuation and protection against voltage fluctuations, frequency fluctuations, brownouts and blackouts. Optional extended runtime battery cabinets can provide protection against extended power outages. The UPS uses a full-time rectifier and an inverter that generates clean power. Available in tower or rack-mount models, the batteries are hot-swappable.
937-253-1191
fax 937-253-1723
www.stacoenergy.com
sales@stacoenergy.com

SPL meter
Booth N2523
ATI
SLM-100: Now shipping, this audio meter features a large analog meter for quick measurements in frequency ranges from 32Hz to 10kHz. It can be set to measure A- and C-weighted measurements with peak or averaging response. It includes a seven-range selector switch, calibration control and a test signal output via an RCA jack. A 9V battery supplies power. SPL ranges from 50dB to 126dB. A threaded insert allows the meter to be mounted on a camera tripod. The unit measures 6.25″ x2.5″ x1.75″.
800-922-8001
fax 215-443-0331
www.atiaudio.com
sales@atiaudio.com

Plug-in for Pro Tools
Booth N811, N811A
Audio Processing Technology
Apt-x Pro: This compatibility tool allows Pro Tools to work freely with Enhanced Apt-x-encoded 16- to 24-bit audio files. It features an intuitive user interface and can convert audio files to and from Apt-x faster than real-time. The plug-in allows Pro Tools to import Enhanced Apt-x and export PCM audio from a Pro Tools track to an Enhanced Apt-x-encoded audio track. The plug-in supports 44.1kHz and 48kHz sampling rates, mono or stereo files, and supports 24-bit resolution.
323-463-2963
fax 323-463-8878
www.aptx.com
aptmarketing@aptx.com

Switches
Booth SL2654
NKK Switches
KP01: Three cap sizes are available in the KP01 series: 12mm, 15mm and 17.4mm. The compact design is 23mm from the PC board to the top of the cap and features a long travel of 4.5mm. Engineers can request legend packets, which help facilitate the ordering of customer specific legends. The switches are constructed with a red and green, built-in LED. An amber color can be produced by simultaneous illumination of the red and green LEDs. The built-in LED frees engineers from having to source LEDs on their own and install them, or from having to assemble an LED into the base switch at all. A snap-in stand off provides secure PC board mounting and alignment. PCB layout is standard 0.100 x 0.100. Terminals are epoxy sealed to lock out flux, dust and other contaminants.
480-991-0942
fax 480-998-1435
www.nkkswitches.com
sales@nkkswitches.com

Digital transmitter
Booth N2811
Nautel
XR50: As the fourth generation of the Nautel 50kW AM transmitter, this modular HD Radio/DRM digital transmitter offers power modules that are hot-pluggable and can be removed and replaced without an interruption in transmission. For greater redundancy, the transmitter comes with a standby DDS exciter section including a modulation encoder with automatic changeover. It requires no manual tuning or adjustment, even with antenna mismatch corresponding to 1.5:1 VSWR at 50kW with 100 percent modulation.
207-947-8200
fax 207-947-3693
www.nautel.com
info@nautel.com

Newsroom production
Booth N1402
Prophet Systems
Newsgen: This stand-alone newsroom software enables reporters to write newscasts, receive and manipulate wire copy and digitally record, edit and playback audio. Users can define hot-keys, change the look and feel of the screens, set up custom wire searches, set up alert conditions on the wires, define custom colors, and create categories for stories and media. This production system enables news reporters to create newscasts for music stations to air from without having to leave the news room.
800-658-4403
fax 308-284-4181
www.prophetsys.com
sales@prophetsys.com

Audio processors
Booth N813
Orban
Optimod-FM 8500: Orban’s new flagship processor is suitable for use with IBOC, Eureka-147 or a netcast. The processor has doubled its DSP power to provide headroom for future DSP improvements. Featuring five-band and two-band processing for analog and digital FM, the processor provides stereo enhancement, equalization, AGC, multiband compression, low-IM peak limiting, stereo encoding and composite limiting. More than 20 format-specific factory presets are loaded. Processing for a digital chain is standard. The base sample rate is 64kHz.
510-351-3500
fax 510-351-0500
www.orban.com
custserv@orban.com

RBDS, HD Radio PAD interface
Booth N3911
OMT Technologies
Imediadatacast: The Imediadatacast Module for Imediatouch automation allows a station to send full artist and title information to RBDS and HD Radio encoders. Imediadatacast allows Imediatouch users to provide listeners with expanded “now playing” information and customized radio promotion data on FM radios supporting RBDS encoding.
888-665-0501
fax 204-783-5805
www.omt.net
omt@omt.net