AV News to Know December 17, 2021: New Products, Cool Projects and People in New Places

Here’s a closer look at some of the AV news this week that includes a customized digital signage software project, Shure-Starin partnership, and more.

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AV News to Know December 17, 2021: New Products, Cool Projects and People in New Places

New AV Products

Fulcrum Acoustic Launches new DF4 Dual High-Frequency Horn Loudspeakers

Fulcrum Acoustic, the Mass.-based creator of loudspeaker technologies, released the DF4 Dual High-Frequency Horn Loudspeaker. According to the company, it is a spot fill loudspeaker aimed at supplemental high frequency coverage for areas shaded by obstructions.

The dual four inch diaphragm high-frequency compression drivers deliver very high output for long-throw applications. Fulcrum Acoustic’s proprietary TQ processing improves the sonic character. This guarantees clarity and precise transient response even at very high SPL.

The loudspeaker is currently available in two models, the DF443 (45° x 30°) and the DF463 (60° x 30°).

The DF443 and DF463

The DFX LoudspeakerThe DF443 provides a precise 45° x 30° pattern while the DF463 provides a precise 60° x 30° pattern for applications where spot-fill of high frequencies is required.

In both models, dual four inch diaphragm high frequency compression drivers provide substantial output suitable for mid- to long-throw applications.

Both are effective in applications where supplemental HF coverage is required due to occlusion from the primary loudspeakers by hockey dasher boards or building structural elements.

The compact size allows mounting very close to ceilings or under balconies with minimal effect on sight lines. Thus, the loudspeakers are ideal for sporting arenas and stadiums, houses of worship, theaters, restaurants, transportation facilities and more.

Audio Visual Projects

Visix Provides Customized Digital Signage Software for Door County’s Visitors

Camera Corner Connecting Point, an IT/AV systems integration firm, deployed Visix Inc. AxisTV Signage Suite content management platform in Door County, Wisconsin. The platform provides engaging visitor information and wayfinding experiences spanning three different government buildings.

Visix, the Ga.-based provider of digital signage software, powered the digital signage that greets visitors near lobby entrances to Door County’s administrative building.

Diving into the software, the Visix HDs media players feed Sharp AQUOS BOARD interactive displays. Additionally, the 40-inch screens, configured in portrait mode on Chief mounts, provide interactive wayfinding functionality. They also display welcome messaging and location-specific information such as hours of operation, public notices and event listings.

Door County’s digital signage also leverages the Visix software’s data widgets to pull in third-party content. These include directory listings, meeting agendas, and event calendars.

Gary Huebner, CTS, AV and security senior account manager at Camera Corner Connecting Point, explains that Door County’s new digital signage systems supplement in-person assistance for visitors. “The Visix signage solution helps them quickly figure out where they need to be if, for example, they’re coming in to get a permit, submit paperwork, or meet with county staff,” he says. “It provides wayfinding not only within the facility, but also essential information about the county overall. And if they’re meeting with someone, it gives them something interesting to engage with while they wait.”

The Visix creative services team designed custom content templates for the installation with Door County’s logos and graphics. This was done to ensure a consistent visual experience across all three sites and to reinforce the county’s branding. “Visix’s rock-solid digital signage platform and the artistry of their creative designers bring a unified experience to those visiting these different facilities, with branding that is more cohesive,” adds Huebner.

He concludes, “I encourage other counties and municipalities to do the same. It provides a much more streamlined experience for the people these agencies are serving.”

People and Places

Starin Signs Distribution Agreement With Shure Inc.

Starin, the Ind.-based distributor of pro AV products recently signed a distribution relationship with Shure. Based in Niles, Illinois, Shure Inc. is a manufacturer of microphones and audio electronics.

Starin expresses its excitement on the partnership with Shure. “At Starin, our focus and expertise are on UC, Education, and Pro Audio, bringing the best total solutions to our partners,” says Bobby Swartz, CEO of Starin. “Bringing our UC clients complete solutions makes partnering with Shure a natural fit for all.”

Adding to this, Shure states that its acquisition of Stem Audio and Stem Ecosystem will also benefit the partnership. Furthermore, it will enable the company to further expand and diversify its solutions for organizations.

Kevin Smith, senior director of integrated systems at Shure, remarks, “We are thrilled to partner with Starin to offer the best of Shure and Stem Ecosystem portfolio, giving customers the right audio and collaboration solutions for their needs.”

According to Shure, the Stem Ecosystem devices provide the freedom to customize rooms. Alongside this, the straightforward approach saves time and money. The Stem Ecosystem solutions are also compatible with leading video conferencing platforms and collaboration technologies.

Spinitar Appoints Joe Orlando as Regional VP of Pacific Northwest

Headshot of Joe OrlandoSpinitar, the Calif.-based systems design and integration firm, announced the addition of Joe Orlando to the Spinitar team as regional VP of Pacific Northwest (RVP of PNW).

According to a statement, Orlando will oversee all projects for Spinitar. He will also provide support in all areas of project management, including design, installation, budgeting and financial administration, and personnel leadership.

Before joining Spinitar, Orlando was the president and founder of Commercial Media Systems Inc., a design-build integration firm. The firm specialized in large format audio and video systems. During that time he also acted as product manager for Xilica Corporation and director of DSP for AtlasIED.

“The entire team at Spinitar is glad to have Joe leading our project management efforts,” said Jay Rogina, principal at Spinitar. “Joe has good focus and knows how to get projects done right. His expertise as a business owner and years of experience in the commercial audiovisual arena will make him a great addition to our team.”

According to a statement, Orlando plans to bring another level of ingenuity to the design and engineering of large audio systems along with new inspirations to Spinitar projects.

“As one of the most respected audio, visual, and communication solutions and services firms in the industry, Spinitar is where I’ve always envisioned my career to evolve,” Orlando concludes.

PEG Expert Dana Healy Joins Tightrope Media Systems as VP of Cablecast Community Media

Tightrope Media Systems, the Minn.-based developers of Cablecast Community Media, welcomed PEG media executive Dana Healy as VP of the Cablecast business unit.

According to a statement, Healy will oversee Cablecast sales and operations. Healy will also develop processes and strategies to ensure exceptional, productive customer experiences. She will also work closely with the marketing team to connect with all Cablecast customers on an ongoing basis.

Healy has been in the community media for over 23 years. She has held a series of increasingly senior roles, from a meeting operator to her most recent position as executive director of a multi-municipality consortium.

Healy developed her leadership and revenue generation skills during her 10-year tenure at Danvers Community Access Television in Massachusetts. She then took the helm of CTV North Suburbs in Minnesota in 2018. Here, she re-invented the brand and revenue generation model for what is now known as NineNorth.

Healy is also a respected speaker at government and community media conferences. She has previously shared insights as a guest contributor to Cablecast’s PEG Experts blog.

Speaking on the new role, Healy adds, “I’m excited to be joining a company that truly believes in going above and beyond for their users, and proud to serve the PEG community alongside colleagues so dedicated to preserving community media. I look forward to chatting with customers about PEG strategies at upcoming trade shows and industry events.”

“Dana’s skills and experience make her a perfect fit for this key leadership role,” remarks Steve Israelsky, president, Cablecast Community Media. “Having worked within community media organizations for over two decades, she has unique insights into their needs and the challenges they face in the evolving media landscape. We are constantly striving to improve our engagement with our customers…and we’re thrilled to have Dana join our team to help us achieve these goals.”

Dave Dahm, AV Sales and Team Leader, Appointed as PPDS Regional Manager

Photos taken February 2018 (Red Photography by Michelle)

PPDS, the Calif.-based provider of Philips professional TVs and digital signage solutions, appointed experienced AV sales and team leader, Dave Dahm, as its new regional manager for hospitality.

According to a statement, Dahm brings more than 15-years of specialist AV sales knowledge and experience. He has previously held successful sales management and leadership roles at several leading AV organizations including Peerless, Optoma Technology and Pivium.

Dahm will report to Joe King, the VP of hospitality. His key responsibilities include continuing to accelerate national awareness of the PPDS brand. This includes the front end entertainment and back-end control and management provided by Philips MediaSuite. (MediaSuite is the first smart TV built exclusively for the hotel room experience, featuring Chromecast built-in and embedded Netflix).

Dahm will also be working closely with the AV channel, forming new and extending strategic relationships with hotel chains and groups in the U.S. and Canada. He will meet with existing AV resellers and add new ones.

Commenting on his appointment, Dave says, “I am thrilled to have joined PPDS at such an exciting time for the business. PPDS is a company that prides itself on taking a leadership approach with all its products and solutions…This has arguably never been more evident than with its new Philips MediaSuite hotel TV range.”

He continues, “Guests want more out of their entertainment experience and with Philips MediaSuite, we have a truly unique solution that gives the guest what they want and the hotelier what they need.”

“We’re delighted to welcome Dave to our ever-growing and strengthening hospitality team. [Dave will join] in our strategy to bring greater value to hotels and guests across North America,” King concludes.

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