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Grimstad Kulturhus, the cultural center at the heart of the beautiful Norwegian coastal town, has significantly expanded its audio capabilities with a groundbreaking Meyer Sound installation that integrates the Constellation® acoustic system and a Dolby Atmos cinema system in a single sound system.

This installation, which elevates the capabilities of Grimstad Kulturhus’ Pan Theatre cinema and live performance space, is the first in Europe to employ the new generation of Constellation alongside Meyer Sound’s NADIA™ integrated digital audio platform. This combination leverages the latest advancements in digital signal processing to enhance system power, flexibility, and scalability, enabling more discrete zones for greater resolution and more nuanced adaptability.

Central to the installation’s versatility is a sophisticated system of custom-designed mechanical speaker mounts developed by the project integrator, Lillehammer Tekniske Byrå (LTB), who have collaborated with Meyer Sound on several Constellation installs throughout Norway. These mounts enable the venue’s loudspeakers to instantly transform from Constellation active acoustic enhancement to theatrical Dolby Atmos presentation. The system is also capable of multichannel immersive surround and special effects, controlled by Meyer Sound’s Spacemap® Go spatial sound design and mixing tool.

Rolf Meyer Tallaksen, Grimstad Kulturhus’ manager, says he was interested in exploring the capabilities of Constellation to enhance concert performances of all genres. “As a musician, I’m thinking about having a good room for making different types of music. I checked out Constellation and some other acoustic systems, but when I heard Constellation, I said, ‘Yes, this is it.’”

When it came to the cinematic component, Tallaksen could have taken the traditional route and installed a separate Dolby Atmos-certified system but instead opted for a bolder approach. “I started thinking, why can’t we use the same loudspeakers for Constellation and build one system for both things? Many people said, ‘No, no, no. It will not work.’ But I said, ‘Yes, I want to try that.’ A colleague told me about the Constellation, which is the best system available for live performances, and Meyer Sound will guarantee that it will work.”

“To meet the speaker-aiming specification for both Atmos and Constellation, it was clear from the start that LTB had to develop a solution with motorized pan/tilt speaker mounts to be able to switch between the two positions at the touch of a button,” explains Børre Linberg. “The R&D team within LTB rose to the challenge and quickly developed a tailor-made solution.” The team built custom mounts for 30 speakers, each capable of rotating the speaker along two rotational axes.

The Meyer Sound Constellation installation, designed by the Meyer Sound Constellation team in collaboration with LTB, comprises 60 loudspeakers and 24 microphones. Speakers include four MM-4XP™ miniature self-powered loudspeakers, 16 UP-4slim™ ultracompact installation loudspeakers, 26 HMS-5™ cinema surround loudspeakers, four HMS-10™ cinema surround loudspeakers, and 10 MM-10™ miniature subwoofers. 

The cinema system, which can be configured for Dolby Atmos and 5.1 or 7.1-channel surround, includes three ULTRA-X40™ compact point source loudspeakers, three 750-LFC™ low-frequency control elements, two USW-210P™ compact narrow subwoofers, and six X-400C™ compact cinema subwoofers. 

Both system configurations are managed by a NADIA core processor along with a Galileo® GALAXY Network Platform. (The room, which seats 76 for cinema and 100 for live events, features an expansive LED wall used as a backdrop for performances and conferences; a traditional projector screen lowers from the ceiling for movie screenings.)

The multitasking system is complex in design but effortless to operate. “We have a Crestron panel, where everything is programmed,” Tallaksen explains. “It’s easy to use for everybody. We have one on the wall and one on the front of house, and one iPad that you can give to the musicians.”

The collaboration between Meyer Sound, LTB, and Grimstad Kulturhus not only vastly expands the center’s capabilities, it underscores a regional movement toward integrating cutting-edge technology in cultural venues. “Norway has ten venues that use the Constellation system, which, when considering the country’s population of just around five million, speaks clearly to the successful nature of the cooperation between LTB and Meyer Sound,” says Linberg.

Since its premiere just before the holiday season, the Dolby Atmos system has captivated moviegoers with its rich, dynamic sound. “People who have been to the cinema are amazed by the sound,” Tallaksen says. “It’s clear. There’s bottom in it, the bass.”

Tallaksen has demonstrated the venue’s capabilities for local musicians during concert rehearsals. “I have a choir that I’m conducting; it’s 45 singers. And they love the room,” he says. “When we sing classical a cappella stuff, it’s just ‘wow,’ everywhere.” The excitement culminated with a grand opening with a classical concert at the end of January, kicking off a three-week winter classical festival poised to showcase the venue’s sonic transformation.

With its unique ability to shift seamlessly between configurations for diverse audio experiences, Grimstad Kulturhus exemplifies the future of sound technology in cultural venues. “This Kulturhus is one of the best-equipped theaters that we’ve done,” says John Pellowe, Meyer Sound’s project director, Constellation Systems. “It can multitask when it comes to sound in a big way.”

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Modern Unified Communications and Systems Integration require high bandwidth and Power over Ethernet (PoE) capabilities. Netgear AV switches are purposefully designed to handle the heavy lifting these systems demand. It provides reliable and efficient solutions for various applications with the setup of a predefined networking profile.

Netgear is a leading company in the networking industry, renowned for its innovative products that enable seamless connectivity and communication among devices. They produce high-quality networking equipment, including Wi-Fi routers, switches, and other devices that facilitate robust and efficient network infrastructure. Netgear’s products are designed to meet the needs of both residential and commercial environments.

The Netgear AV range of network switches is specifically designed to meet the demands of AVoIP applications. This range offers the reliability and efficiency needed for modern communication systems, making it an ideal choice for various industries.

ApexPro’s extensive distribution network is utilised in this strategic alliance. It also leverages the years of networked AV intellectual capital within our sister company Prosound, and the network support and training expertise from AV Worx. The Netgear AV range perfectly complements our existing brands, enabling us to provide comprehensive solutions for massive projects and diverse applications.

“Netgear and ApexPro had a meeting of minds and saw this as a strategic alliance,” says Brendan Venter, Sales Director of the Prosound Group. “This collaboration will enhance our ability to deliver top-tier AV solutions to our clients.”

Dwaine Schreuder from AV Worx added, “Dante & Netgear AV switches align perfectly with our networked AV push into the Unified Communications, Broadcast, and entertainment technology space. Netgear AV is like the digital glue that binds all of our strategic brands together. We are now Dante, AES67, and SMPTE-2110 ready.” This synergy will strengthen our position in the market and provide our customers with advanced networking solutions at a fraction of the cost compared to other AVoIP networking solutions.

With this new partnership, ApexPro is poised to lead the way in delivering high-quality audio & video networking solutions in South Africa. We look forward to a successful collaboration with Netgear AV. We are excited about the opportunities this partnership will bring to our clients and the industry.

For all your Netgear AV needs, make sure to reach out to ApexPro.

Contact Koketso Lamola as primary sales contact; koketso@apexpro.co.za or +27 78 682 9649

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The choice of equipment is paramount in a world where every beam and hue must dance in perfect harmony. That is why ApexPro take pride in our role as the trusted supplier of top-tier lighting solutions. We’re empowering rental companies like Splitbeam with the tools they need to dazzle audiences night after night. Our partnership with ETC stands as a beacon of quality and innovation. It’s a partnership that benefits not just our clients, but the entire industry. 

Splitbeam, a premier rental company, known for their commitment to excellence. They rely on us to supply them with ETC equipment that sets the stage ablaze with brilliance. From multitalented ColourSource Cyc washes to the powerful @5 fixtures, ETC’s products have become synonymous with reliability and performance. We are proud to be the conduit through which these cutting-edge technologies reach the hands of industry professionals. 

What sets our collaboration apart is not just the exchange of equipment, but the promise of investment. Rental companies understand the value of quality equipment. Equipment that not only meets their immediate needs, but also pays dividends in the long run. By investing in our products, rental companies are assured that they’re not just purchasing tools – they’re investing in assets. It will continue to deliver exceptional performance and reliability, ultimately paying for themselves over time. 

Consider the CYC washes, versatile fixtures that can paint the stage with an endless spectrum of colours. A fixture that creates atmospheres that captivate audiences and bring productions to life. Whether it’s a subtle wash to set the mood or a vibrant burst of light to punctuate a climactic moment, the CYC washes from ETC deliver stunning results every time. With their energy-efficient design, they not only enhance the visual experience, but also contribute to cost savings. It’s an investment that pays off with every performance. 

Then there is the Gio@5. A powerhouse fixture that combines precision optics with unparalleled control, allowing lighting designers to sculpt light with incomparable precision. From sharp beams to soft washes, the @5 offers versatility that’s unmatched in its class. Once again giving rental companies the flexibility they need to tackle a wide range of productions with confidence. With features like advance colour mixing and seamless integration with lighting control systems, the @5 is a game-changer for any lighting designer seeking to push the boundaries of creativity. 

Beyond the technical specifications and features, what truly sets ETC’s products apart is their reliability. In an industry where every moment counts and every performance is a testament to teamwork and dedication, rental companies need equipment they can trust. With ETC, they get more than just lighting fixtures – they get peace of mind, knowing that their productions are in good hands. 

To all the rental companies out there looking to elevate their productions and delight audiences with unforgettable experiences, look no further than ApexPro. With our partnership with ETC, you not only get access to cutting-edge lighting solutions, but also a promise of quality, reliability, and performance that will illuminate every stage, every night. 

Invest in excellence. Invest in ETC. 

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In a harmonious partnership, Splitbeam, has chosen ApexPro for their audio needs. Splitbeam is the rental company behind the scenes of the current sensation, Mamma Mia! They have raised the bar yet again by integrating top-tier equipment into their arsenal.

Building on their dedication to delivering unparalleled sound experiences, Splitbeam has recently expanded their inventory. Concurrently, they now have a selection of Sennheiser and DPA equipment supplied by ApexPro.  Among the additions and 16 dual-channel EW-DX receivers, 32 packs, and 4 additional handheld microphones. Completely kitted, they are consequently able to enhance their capability to cater to large-scale productions like Mamma Mia! with ease.

Joining forces with DPA Microphone, Splitbeam has already solidified their commitment to excellence. They have acquired 35 4061 DPA lapel microphones and 4 2028DPA handheld capsules. Evidently, this is the winning combination of DPA’s precision engineering and Sennheiser’s reliability. With unmatched clarity and fidelity, it captures every note; From the infectious melodies of ‘Honey Honey’ to the anthemic choruses of ‘The Winner Takes It All’.

“These miniature marvels,” Clifford Weilich from Splitbeam says, referring about the DPA4061’s, “have seamlessly woven themselves into the fabric for most of our audio productions. Moreover, the DPA handheld capsules have now increased the variety of options available in our rental market.”

Splitbeam decided to trust us with their sound needs for Mamma Mia!. This is a testament to the unwavering quality and performance of our products. Together with Sennheiser and DPA, we are effectively setting new standards for sound excellence in musical theatre. 

Dante enables network audio capability and integrates with Sennheiser equipment. This further underscores Splitbeam’s commitment to innovation and elevating the audience’s audio experience to new heights. Behind every electrifying note and heartfelt lyric of Mamma Mia! lies the meticulous attention to sound. This is all made possible by the seamless collaboration between ApexPro, Sennheiser, and DPA Microphones.

“DPA has become a household name of ours,” Clifford also remarks, “due to their transparent and natural sound reproduction. Currently, Mamma Mia is using it as a Forehand Worn Microphone Solution. As well as using the DPA 2028 Capsules for the infamous Donna and the Dynamos.”

As audiences immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Mamma Mia!, they can rest assured that ApexPro provides unparalleled quality and reliability, enhancing every moment. Together, we continue to bring the magic of musical theatre to life, one unforgettable performance at a time.

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In the world of sound production, finding the perfect combination of equipment can be the difference between a good show and an unforgettable experience. At ApexPro, we understand that it’s not just about the products. We know it’s about finding the right solutions to meet your needs. That’s why we’re proud to partner with Eastern Acoustics, a leading sound rental company. Delivering top-tier audio solutions tailored to your production needs. 

ApexPro is not just a product-based company; we’re a solutions company. Our goal is to provide you with the tools and expertise you need to create exceptional sound experiences. Therefor we stand behind the winning combination of Sennheiser and DPA equipment. 

Why this combination? 

DPA microphones have earned renown for their dependability and uncompromising quality. Designed with precision engineering, DPA microphones capture every nuance of the performer’s voice, ensuring crystal-clear sound reproduction. Moreover, DPA microphones also excel in discreet placement and offer the ability to colour-match to skin tones. This ensures the seamless integration into any production. With DPA, you can conceal microphones without sacrificing sound quality, allowing performers to move freely without distraction. 

As a result, people know Sennheiser wireless systems for their reliability and long battery life, for providing peace of mind during performances. With Sennheiser, you can trust that your equipment with perform flawlessly, form the first act to the final curtain call. The Sennheiser monitoring and maintenance systems are second to none. Consequently it allows for real-time monitoring and adjustments during performances. Sennheiser allows you to maintain optimal sound quality throughout your show, ensuring a uniform audio experience for your audience.

“They’re taking our audio experience to a whole new level with their top-notch performance and integration,” Clifford Weirich from Splitbeam noted. 

This is why we delight in supplying Eastern Acoustics with 12 EWD’s, further enhancing their capability to deliver exceptional sound experiences. As a solutions provider, we commit to helping you achieve your vision. Whether it’s a musical production, a corporate event, or a live concert.

“We are thrilled to express our profound enjoyment of the Sennheiser EW-DXX Dante receivers.” says Cliffor Weirich. “As industry professionals, we appreciate their seamless integration, exceptional sound quality, and effortless operation. With the Built-in Dante Option, we can soundly monitor all 32 channels with the click of a button all while fitting in a compact tour friendly 10U flight Case.”

Elevate your sound experience with top-tier audio solutions from ApexPro.

Let’s create something unforgettable together. 

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In the world of theatrical production, the choice of sound equipment can make or break the experience. Where every note and whisper must reach the audience with crystal clarity. At ApexPro, we’ve long been champions of quality. Our enduring partnership with Meyer Sound stands as a testament to our commitment to excellence. 

For years, Eastern Acoustics and Splitbeam, two esteemed rental companies, have relied on us to supply them with Meyer Sound equipment for their stellar productions. According to David from Eastern Acoustics, “Meyer is our go-to PA system for multiple different things, especially theatre.” This echoes the sentiments of countless professionals in the industry who trust Meyer Sound to deliver unparalleled performances night after night. For timeless classics like The Sound of Music to electrifying hits of Mamma Mia, Meyer Sound has been the invisible force behind the scenes. It ensures that every performance resonates with perfection.

What sets our collaboration apart is not just the sheer longevity of our relationship, but the remarkable durability and reliability of Meyer Sound’s equipment. Take, for instance, the Meyer Heritage M1D’s – the backbone of productions like LAMTA’s Spring Awakening. These workhorses, supplemented by Eastern Acoustics’ own M1D’s, have been faithfully delivering flawless sound since 2006. It’s a verification of Meyer Sound’s craftmanship that these older models continue to reign supreme in an industry constantly seeking the latest innovations. 

But our partnership extends beyond just the classics. For productions requiring deep, resonant bass, we’ve supplied the powerful 700-HP sub bass units. For more nuanced soundscapes, the UPQ-1P and UPQ-2P speakers have provided pristine audio reproduction. While the versatility of the UPM, UPJ, UP-Junior, and UPA series ensure that every corner of the stage and auditorium is bathed in perfect sound. And let’s not forget the MM-4, a compact marvel that packs a punch far beyond its size. 

The story doesn’t end there. The MICA system, a veteran on the stage, has faithfully served multiple runs of We Will Rock You – not just the 2022 run, but also in 2005 before that. From South Africa to the latest rendition, the consistency and quality of Meyer Sound remains unwavering. And let’s not forget the M’elodie, which currently finds it’s voice in Mamma Mia, proving once again that age is no barrier to excellence. 

While the classics hold a special place in our hearts, we also embrace the future with open arms. Modern technology meets timeless performance in Meyer Sound’s new line up. The LINA, a marvel of engineering, has found its home at Artscape Theatre, enchanting audiences with productions like Calling Us Home and The Buddy Holly Story. Investing in Meyer Sound isn’t just about preserving tradition; it’s about embracing innovation and ensuring that the magic of live performance continues to captivate audiences for generations to come. 

Whether it’s the comfort of the M1D’s or the crisp clarity of the LINA, one thing remains clear; Meyer Sound is more than just equipment – it’s the promise of perfection, a guarantee of greatness, and a melody that never fades. Join us in our journey as we continue to elevate the art of sound, one performance at a time.

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The renowned Théâtre de la Renaissance is the latest venue in France to choose ETC gear to upgrade its lighting. ETC dealer So What & Co supplied High End Systems Halcyon Titanium fixtures for the Parisian theatre.

Well-known spaces across France including the Bordeaux Opera, the Théâtre National Populaire, the Comédie Française and the Grand Théâtre de Provence have all recently selected Halcyon automated fixtures as the best solution to light their spaces. In the heart of the 10^th arrondissement of Paris, the Théâtre de la Renaissance also made the same choice with the support of So What & Co. 

Halcyon’s best-in-class quality, powerful output and low levels of noise were just some of the features that appealed to the Technical Director of the Théâtre de la Renaissance Éric Milleville when deciding on the right solution for the theatre. “The first thing I was looking for when deciding on the right fixtures were sources that were powerful enough to replace a 2 kW [fixture],” says Milleville. From an output of 19,000 lumens to 54,000 lumens (as well as 70,000 lumens in boost mode), ETC’s Halcyon fixtures offer a powerful range of options for users to work with alongside a matching feature set in three different varieties – Gold, Platinum and Titanium. 

A member of the ASTP (Association for the Support of Private Theatres which includes approximately 50 Parisian theatres), the Théâtre de la Renaissance also considered ETC’s SolaFrame Studio fixture. “I had heard good things about this moving light,” continues Éric, “since they don’t have a fan and the zoom is very quiet. We did tests with the So What & Co team. We liked its silence but the result wasn’t right for our needs in terms of output. So What & Co then loaned us the new Halcyon Titanium, equipped with a High Fidelity engine. And it was perfect!” 

Benjamin Boiffier, Director of So What & Co, comments on choosing Halcyon: “We also gave a demonstration of the fixture to lighting designer François Leneveu during the Avignon festival. He really liked it and it just so happened that he would soon be lighting the play ‘Passeport’ at the Théâtre de la Renaissance. The team at the theatre were immediately sold that Halcyon was the right choice for their venue.” 

By choosing the High Fidelity version of the fixture, Éric Milleville has chosen a beautiful light, with a TM-30 Rf of 91 and Rg of 98. Add the two rotating gobo wheels, an animation wheel, the three frosts with the Trifusion system for a perfect transition between the different diffusions, four full-curtain shutters on a 180° rotating module… Finally, the next-gen gradient color mixing dichroics create smooth and even colors, both in and out of focus, with a mixing curve that gives incredible control of light tints through to intense saturates.

Find out more about Halcyon from your local dealer or sales representatives, or visit etcconnect.com/Halcyon/. 

About ETC

A global leader in the manufacturing of lighting and rigging technology, ETC employs over 1200 people in 14 corporate offices around the world. ETC is proud of its industry reputation for unmatched technical and customer service, 24/7/365. And with a family of over 300 authorized service centers throughout the world, staffed by hundreds of certified technicians, customers are never far from an ETC resource with a face and a name. 

We develop professional tools and make them accessible to everyone. Our products are found in small and large venues worldwide, such as theatres, churches, restaurants, hotels, schools, television studios, casinos, theme parks, and opera houses. etcconnect.com

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When it comes to the magic of television production, even the smallest details can make a world of difference. Our team at ApexPro was proud to provide The Masked Singer SA production with our Riedel Bolero Intercoms. These intercoms ensure seamless communication among key crew members. 

In the fast-paced world of entrainment, clear communication is crucial. Communication from the director to the camera operators, right down to the masked singers themselves. Without reliable intercom systems like the Riedel Bolero, chaos could easily ensue on set. 

The introduction of Bolero to The Masked Singer South Africa S2 was an easy decision for Ashley Wilson (Engineer In Charge) and Vuyo Ncube (Guarantee Engineer) for this project.

“Bolero would address a large and demanding wireless comms mandate that we needed to fill for the second season of the show.  Thanks to the Bolero’s seamless integration capabilities, the Bolero system effortlessly integrated with our existing setup, allowing for quick and easy install without any compatibility challenges. The Bolero comms are known for their crystal-clear audio quality and that is exactly what they brought to this high intensity environment. The clear and reliable communication lead to the success of this season’s production as every message, and cue was delivered with precision and clarity, even in a noisy studio environment.” Ashley Wilson

“Bolero is always a first choice for any of the productions I get to work on. The belt packs  are intuitive and easy to use and understand quickly. The dedicated reply button on this specific production made it a breeze for crew members to respond quickly and effectively, even in high-stress situations. Once we had installed the system the positive feedback from the crew was a joy to have. The excitement that they could have their own partylines, each pack was customisable, and that we had integrated the belt packs into the existing PA system really took them all by surprise and made their jobs really simple. A big thank you to ApexPro for making this happen and their constant support in all the projects I’m involved in” Vuyo Ncube

At ApexPro, we understand that innovation doesn’t always come in large packages. Sometimes it’s the small tools behind-the-scenes that play a monumental role in bringing a production to life. We’re honoured to be a part of The Masked Singer SA journey. We also look forward to continuing to support the magic of television with cutting-edge technology.

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