Prolight + Sound has for many years preserved its status as the largest meeting place for the global events, installation and production sectors. This year’s edition, held from 21 to 24 March, was another milestone for the Frankfurt trade show.

During four days of the Prolight + Sound trade fair a total of 876 exhibitors from 41 countries exhibited to a record 40 894 visitors – up by 21% from 33 781 in 2011. It was held concurrently with Musikmesse, which was also a success from an attendance point of view, registering a total of 109 841 visitors over four days.
So what was it that made Prolight + Sound 2012 a worthwhile outing?
From a visitor’s point of view, it has to be the show’s emphasis on a comprehensive range of new products and technical solutions, topical education programmes, as well as the networking side.

Feedback from Media Systems Congress, the biggest information event at the show, was remarkably positive this year. Florian von Hofen of the Professional Lighting and Sound Association of Germany says: “Information about the sector, innovations and business are factors for success at Prolight + Sound – and this was even more apparent in 2012 than the year before.’ Another noteworthy platform was the Prolight + Sound Forum organised by the VPLT with lectures and panel discussions revolving around legal questions, occupational safety and training.
One of the interesting things about Prolight + Sound is that the organisers are always keen to try out new initiatives. This year they introduced a new conference called The Eventplaza Conference Forum for Event Management, which was aimed at event managers and event agencies and also featured a small exhibition of products.

Other popular spots among visitors included the two outdoor areas, the Concert Sound Arena and the Portable Sound Arena, where visitors had the chance to see and hear extensive demonstrations of different sound systems. A number of suppliers also presented mobile stages and tent systems outside the halls where crowds gathered to witness various technologies.
Audio

In the audio sector, there were two new products awaited with particular interest; the CL series of digital audio consoles from Yamaha and the new VTX series from JBL.

The Yamaha CL Series is a Dante network–based console featuring remote I/O. All three CL models in the Centralogic series, only differentiated by frame size and input capability, feature 24 mix buses, eight matrix buses, plus stereo and mono outputs and 16 DCAs. “The footprint of all three CL consoles is small, yet powerful and has been developed specifically for sound reinforcement applications such as performing arts venues, theatres, houses of worship, touring and remote broadcast,’ says a Yamaha spokesperson.

JBL Professional introduced the VTX Line Array Series with the launch of the S28 and G28 subwoofers. “The VTX Series features JBL’s legendary sound quality coupled with the most advanced sound reinforcement technology and support available,’ says a spokesperson from the company. The first product from the VTX Line Array Series is the VTX V25 – a full-size, 3-way, high-directivity line array element. The VTX V25 features two 2000W, 15-inch Differential Drive woofers mounted in die-cast aluminium baffles, with four 8-inch differential drive mid-range transducers and three of the “revolutionary’ new D2 Dual- Diaphragm Dual-Voice-Coil Compression Drivers mounted on a 3rd generation waveguide and patented RBI Radiation Boundary Integrator assembly. Distributed by www.wildandmarr.co.za

British audio solutions manufacturer DiGiCo unveiled a new mixing console called SD5.The SD5 has 124 input channels; 56 configurable busses, plus up to 5.1 master; a 24 x 24 fixed matrix; DiGiTubes on every channel, buss and output; 24 assignable Dynamic EQ; 24 multiband compressors; 24 stereo effects; 32 Graphic EQ; 10 x 4 (40); and RGB backlit macro buttons.
Distributed by www.tadco.co.za

Martin Audio presented the MLA Compact Multi-Cellular Loudspeaker Array – a fully integrated system with speakers, amplification, DSP and optimisation software. Director of sales, Simon Bull says: “MLA Compact is our response to the market demand for a mid-size touring system that can double as an installation system, while retaining all the breakthrough benefits of the original MLA system. MLA Compact enables a much wider segment to buy into our game-changing multi-cellular technology.’
Distributed by www.audiosure.co.za

Mackie demonstrated its new portable S500 Series passive loudspeakers, which form part of a new system that also includes the FRS power amplifiers and SP260 2×6 speaker processor. There are three full-range boxes in the series: the two-way 12′ S512, two-way 15′ S515 and two-way dual 15′ S525. There is also an 18′ companion subwoofer called S518. All S500 models include NL4 and 1/4′ inputs and through connections.

d&b audiotechnik presented its V-series, which consists of the V8 and V12 loudspeakers and the V subwoofer. All are matched and constructed to be mechanically compatible – in flown or ground-stacked arrays.

Allen & Heath showcased their new ZED mixer, as well as the new GLD digital mixing system and other recent additions to the ZED and Xone ranges. The ZED60-10FX is a compact, portable mixer ideal for solo artists and small bands. Two of the four mono channels have high impedance jack inputs that can take a normal line level or a low level input from a guitar pickup, so guitars can be plugged straight into the mixer without the need for DI boxes. Two stereo inputs are provided for MP3/CD players or keyboards, and the mixer is equipped with configurable USB audio in/out to capture a stereo recording, XLR main stereo outputs, a flexible monitoring section with headphone and speaker feed outputs, and 16 digital effects developed from the iLive digital mixing system.
Distributed by www.audiosure.co.za

Lighting

“The dominant subject in the lighting sector is the efficiency of modern lights. Interesting in this connection is that the tried and tested discharge lamps are also enjoying a small come-back.’
– Florian von Hofen
(Professional Lighting and Sound Association of Germany)

Martin Professional received positive feedback for its new MAC Viper Profile, which is anticipated to knock down many lights in the 1200-watt range. Martin Professional claims that the profile is about 50% more efficient than other lights in this range. Key features of the light include 25 000 lumens, glass gobos with optimal focal separation for superior morphing effects and an 8-slot colour wheel.
Distributed by www.electrosonic.co.za

Czech Republic moving light manufacturer Robe introduced five new ROBIN LED lights: the ROBIN DLX Spot, the ROBIN DLF, the ROBIN 800 LEDWash, the ROBIN Actor 6 and the ROBIN 100 LEDBeam, which is selling fast in South Africa. The ROBIN 100 LEDBeam uses 12 high powered RGBW LEDs arranged in three zones (which can be controlled independently). The light has a virtual colour wheel with pre-programmed 237 colours including whites (2.700K, 3.200K, 4.200K, 5.600K and 8.000K) and its beam angle in 7°.
Distributed by www.dwrdistribution.co.za

Clay Paky presented the new A.Leda LED moving head range which consists of three models with wide fast pan and tilt movements (100 W, 300 W and 600 W). “This line is a valid alternative to discharge-lamp washlights of equal power, with all the benefits of LED lights: intense, highly vivid saturated-tone colours, lightweight, energy saving, longer light source life and lower operating and maintenance costs,’ says a spokesperson from Clay Paky.
Distributed by www.dwrdistribution.co.za

Robert Juliat’s stand was almost entirely illuminated by LED fixtures, demonstrating how LED sources can simultaneously offer cost and environmental benefits. The stand presented Robert Juliat’s two new products, TIBO and ZEP LED profiles, which are due for release later this year. TIBO will be available in two colour temperatures: Warm White 3200K and Cool White 6000K and offers three zoom ranges compatible with the current zoom ranges of the popular 600SX Series tungsten profiles: 28°to 54°, 16° to 35° and 11° to 26°.
Distributed by www.electrosonic.co.za

PR Lighting got people talking with its XLED 336 moving head. It stood out among a large suite of innovative LED based products on the stand of the Chinese manufacturer, where visitors praised its brightness, speed and sleek design. The light has an 18.15° dispersion angle and generates its power and RGB colour mix from 36 x 3W Osram Oslon LED’s (12 red, 12 green and 12 blue).

Philips Vari-Lite introduced the new VL3015, VL3015LT, and VL3515 Spot luminaires. All three luminaires include CYM colour mixing, variable CTO colour temperature correction, gobo/effects wheels, and ultra-fast strobe mechanisms. While the VL3015 and VL3515 have a six-position colour wheel, the VL3015LT utilises two five-position colour wheels, and the VL3515 luminaire has an added feature of a four-blade shutter mechanism that allows the blades to be operated independently or in unison for a clear and crisp image. The VL3015LT luminaire houses a precision glass reflector system with dichroic cold mirror coating. This system allows the fixture to achieve over 40,000 lumens of output. Plus, the VL3015LT also contains an independent, drop-in armature which rotates, is indexible, and is capable of holding 5-facet prism or included frost glass. The VL3015, VL3015LT and VL3515 Spot luminaires are all complete with a palette of VARI*LITE gobos, effects and colours, while custom gobos, effects and colours are also available.
Distributed by www.dwrdistribution.co.za

Martin Professional demonstrated a range of exciting products, including the new M2GO and M2PC lighting consoles. Equipped with a fast, dual-core processor, the M2GO is a full console with no external computer required. It offers a professional level of features in a portable package and has been developed with cost, ergonomics, feature set, size, and weight in mind. The latest generation processor ensures a fast and responsive user interface, even if hundreds of playbacks and effects are activated simultaneously. The M2PC is the complementary control surface to Martin’s M-PC controller software. With the same layout and size as the M2GO, the M2PC delivers a professional level of features in a portable package directly from any PC.
Distributed by www.electrosonic.co.za

Networks

AVB and Dante dominated the network technology section; a majority of audio products were either AVB or Dante-ready.

Riedel Communications presented a suite of AVB products, which provides a real-time communication solution based on official IEEE next generation Ethernet standards like 802.1Qav, P802.1Qat and P802.1AS. The Riedel suite of AVB products includes the AVB-108 G2 Client Card and Connect AVBx8 panel interfaces. The AVB-108 G2 card is a regular Artist client card to be used inside the Artist mainframe. It converts eight Artist matrix ports into AVB and vice versa. The AVB-108 G2 client card communicates either with other AVB-108 G2 client cards in another Artist systems, for example for trunking or for use with Riedel’s Connect AVBx8 panel interface.

NEXO introduced the new NXDT104 Dante audio plug-in card for the NXAMP, which enables NEXO loudspeaker systems to explore the many benefits of a high-performance AVB-ready digital networking solution.
Distributed by www.tadco.co.za

Rigging & Screens

Eurotruss showcased their new pre-rig trusses the MT Truss, the RTS Truss and the CWT Truss. The MT Truss, with its rigid dimension (1 180mm height and 780mm width), enables free spans of 28m and can take up to 7 000 kg of uniform distributed load. The CTW Truss can be used as a catwalk truss with aluminium inlays and as two heavy duty pre-rig trussing as the truss can be used in flat and or upright position. By using a combo connection you can build it with a conical connector and or gable connector. The RTS Truss is a heavy duty pre-rig truss for automated lighting. It saves not only trucking space but also guarantees less set-up time and labour.
Distributed by www.avldistribution.co.za

Gerriets showcased their new Optiblack screen. “’Optiblack is a nearly black projection screen with identical luminance when used in front or rear projection applications. When used in rear projection situations, the even luminance distribution, combined with excellent diffusion qualities, make it a perfect choice for soft-edge blending applications,’ says a spokesperson from Gerriets. Due to its dark colour, ambient reflected light is greatly minimised on the front surface thus making it almost magically disappear when not in use. Optiblack can also be used to diffuse LED screens and backdrops to create unique and interesting effects. Gerriets also launched G-Quick- an alternative to traditional methods of hanging drapery. The patented device replaces tie lines as a means of attaching grommeted soft goods to pipe battens, making it possible to install and strike stage curtains, backdrops, and other drapery 3 to 4 times faster than by conventional methods.
Distributed by www.avldistribution.co.za

J&C Joel launched their new Reefer String Curtain. Manufactured from flame retardant treated polyester, Reefer String Curtains can be made to any size and looks fantastic when lit. The curtain is available in a wide range of colours, each with the option of interwoven lurex thread in gold, silver, or bronze. “The release of the Reefer String Curtain shows J&C Joel’s commitment to sourcing new products and providing our customers around the world with the very best in high quality flame retardant fabrics and draping’ said J&C Joel managing director, Andrew Walsh.

The next Prolight + Sound will be held from 10 to 13 April 2013 at the same Frankfurt venue.

Industry professionals’ perspectives on Prolight + Sound 2012

Kevin Glover – Sound Stylists

I primarily go to Pro-Light + Sound to see the suppliers and network with other industry players. In terms of new products, Coda had some new products that were mind-boggling. JBL also launched an impressive touring system. We were also impressed with Digico’s new products and we may look at upgrading our Digico D5’s to SD5’s. On the lighting side it was pretty much LED, LED and more LED. The most interesting product for me was the Robe ROBIN 100. There were also some interesting things happening with High End Systems lighting desks. They are definitely on the way up. It’s Interesting to see how the AV and lighting are starting to tie up.

Bruce Schwartz – Electrosonic SA

Not much has changed really in terms of lighting; it is all about LED. Lighting products are getting smaller and brighter but there is still a big divide between cheap led and professional led products. Products that caught our eye include the Martin M2GO and M2PC control desks which we believe will become a major factor in the control desk market in South Africa. We will be showcasing the amazing Martin Viper Range in South Africa around June July. This product by all means will be the new touring standard in moving lights. Its 25% brighter than the old industry standard MAC 2000 and yet the Viper is the size of a comparable 700w fixture.

John Silver – Audiosure

I went to Pro Light + Sound to chat to my suppliers and re-establish connections. The social side plays a very important part in growing relationships and the business. The most exciting products I saw were Allen & Heath’s new GLD mixing systems. We’ve already brought in our first one and have another four coming in this month. This is an offshoot from their iLive series. It’s simpler and has a much better price point. I have really high hopes for it and the market’s reaction has been great. Another exciting product was Martin Audio’s MLA Compact System. One of the things that set it apart from other systems is the fact that it is scalable and versatile and you can focus it so carefully.

Nick Matzukis – AVL Distribution

Pro Light + Sound was dramatically different from last year which was truly a case of same-old same-old with only a couple of new lines here and there. The most innovative products I saw this year were Nivtek’s Clear Glass Stage, which is the first truly clear glass stage I’ve seen and the Gerriets G-quick clamp, which replaces conventional cable ties/ribbons for cloths and curtains. Eurotruss, launched the Catwalk Truss, a high-load, massive strength truss which becomes a certified catwalk for touring purposes and has wheels underneath for enormous spans. They also launched a new touring range of folding truss.