Alcons makes Indian PALM Expo debut [03-06-2011]   Stand F38-42 at PALM Expo 2011, held from 2-4 June at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai, India, sees Dutch loudspeaker manufacturer Alcons Audio unveiling a selection of its innovative pro-ribbon systems to the Indian market for the first time. Alcons offers sound system solutions in three different acoustic categories, each with their own problem solving specifications, but all with Alcons' pro-ribbon audiophile sound quality in common. Amongst the products on display will be the LR7 micro pro-ribbon line-array from Alcons’ L-Series of loudspeakers. Despite its compact size, the LR7 is a precision sound system that provides a superior size/weight:throw ratio and is the ideal solution for AV projects where excellent clarity from a compact system is a key requirement. The QR36 line-source column will be present; the definitive solution for excellent sound coverage and ultimate intelligibility over longer distances in acoustically challenging environments. When used in multiples, they form a continuous line-source, extending the nearfield coverage of the system over longer distance and lower frequencies. Also on show will be cabinets from Alcons’ Digital Cinema ready sound systems, which have already garnered a substantial amount of interest in the European market, where the very best in audio quality has become vital as three-dimensional cinema becomes increasingly established as a mainstream attraction. At 13:00h on Saturday 4th June, Alcons’ co-founder Tom Back will host a seminar on pro-ribbon transducer technology. Entitled ‘Pro-ribbon transducer technology enabling hifi at concert Sound Pressure Levels’, the session will reveal the history and technical background of this ‘new’ method of sound reproduction, as well as its real world implementations. Additionally, to enable visitors to get an idea of the quality performance of Alcons sound systems, live, low-SPL demonstrations will take place on the stand, with the VR8 compact monitor and the BF151 bass system along with presentations on the background of Alcons’ pro-ribbon technology will be given at the stand. “With the Indian market growing in the entertainment sector, of which Bollywood is just one part, we thought the time was right to explore this new territory,” says Back. “Since we first announced of our presence at the show, we’ve received overwhelming interest from sound engineers, consultants and rental company owners alike. We have a lot of meetings with the crème de la crème of the Indian professional audio business organized, to which we’re very much looking forward!”       Alcons raises the bar at Kino2011 [03-06-2011]   Mid-April saw one of the primary trade events for the European cinema industry, Kino2011, take place at the Kongresshaus in Baden-Baden, Germany. It was a highly successful event for Alcons Audio, with show visitors extremely impressed with the company’s Digital Cinema ready systems. In addition to showing the new Cinemarray modular, pro-ribbon screen system, the 12-14 April event featured an Auditorium in which an Alcons system was demonstrated, as well as the presentation of a seminar by Carsten Albrecht of Alcons Audio Germany. “The German cinema market really appreciates quality products and it was an extremely successful show for us,” says Tom. “Cinemarray is the industry’s first dedicated cinema system which incorporates line-source technology throughout, the design alone intriguing many visitors to our stand. “After Carsten’s presentation to a packed Technical Forum on the Wednesday morning, in which he explained the background technology and the advantages of the system, our stand was crowded with cinema owners that wanted to know how Cinemarray could improve their venue’s sound experience.” The Auditorium system - comprising an L-C-R CR4 pro-ribbon system, new BC543 triple 18” subwoofers and 24 CRMS pro-ribbon surround speakers, all driven by ALC amplified loudspeaker controllers with DDP Digital Drive Processors - also generated a great deal of interest, despite the technical challenges that the venue presented. “The Auditorium was not designed as an acoustically-optimised venue, having highly reflective walls and ceiling. In addition, the cinema installation was a mobile set-up, with no baffle wall around the screen system, minimal damping of the back wall and surrounds not being able to be fixed to the wall,” says Tom. “So it was really good to get such positive feedback on the sound quality from visitors, who understood the difficult task the Alcons system was facing. “The unique asymmetric and controlled dispersion of the CR4 system contributed significantly to the performance. Indeed the sound quality was so good that some executives of film distributors asked us to turn up the volume to impressive ‘experience levels’ during the try-outs. Although these levels were not used during the public presentations, it demonstrated the undistorted, Hi-Fi sound quality with exceptional clarity and dynamics.” The organisers of Kino2011 also pronounced themselves very happy with the sound quality in the Auditorium. They reported that it showed a definite improvement over previous years, bringing attendees a definitive taste of how good cinema can be and showcasing a significantly improved presentation platform to film distributors, which truly brings out the best in their product / movies. “We are really happy with how the event went and the level of interest shown in Alcons products,” says Tom. “We believe that it has genuinely raised the bar for film experience and look forward to meeting even higher expectations at next year’s show.”       Alcons gives a glimpse of the future at Prolight+Sound [01-04-2011]   Taking place from 6th - 9th April at Messe Frankfurt, Alcons is exhibiting on stand G60, Hall 8.0 and will be exhibiting the long-awaited production-version of the LR24 pro-ribbon line array system. Previewed at the show last year, the system marks an important advance for the company within the concert touring and large-scale installation market. Designed to be able to deliver the same SPL as equivalent products in the mid-size line array category, but with 15dB less distortion, the Alcons LR24 system utilises the company’s pro-ribbon technology to set a new benchmark in terms of SPL, projection control and sound quality. Also on show will be a brand new subwoofer, the BC543. The unit’s front features an industry first, two state-of-the-art 18-inch, long-excursion cardioid woofers, complemented by a 5.3 inch voice-coil with vented triple-spider frame, Neodymium motor structure, carbon fibre cone and dust cap. The rear features a single driver of the same specification. The extreme excursion capabilities of the design extends the output by 3.5dB, compared to traditional 18” woofer designs. The cabinet features front, centrally-located X Venting™ and a rear Flank Venting™ port. Together these maximise the system’s breathing capacity, increasing overall output, while minimising port-compression and with the smallest possible baffle dimensions. Every year at Prolight+Sound, Alcons exhibit a new 'design study', providing a glimpse of its R&D activities by displaying assembled prototype developments. This year is no exception, with the 2011 show seeing a preview of an entirely new product group, the P-Series. The P-series design study is designed to be a cross-over system of a studio reference monitor, a compact PA system and a pair of headphones. It serves a completely new market segment for Alcons and marks the important next-step in Alcons’ synergy philosophy of amplifier/speaker/processing developments. All three components of the P-Series study will be used in low-SPL demonstrations on the stand and are sure to impress stand visitors. Meanwhile, that vision will be plain to both see and hear at ProLight+Sound 2011’s 3D Live In Concert experience. Located on stand L28, Hall 8.0, it will allow visitors to experience the very best that 3D sound and vision technologies have to offer. The demonstration will feature a 5.1 Alcons surround system throughout the show and, as well as the system relaying a unique 3D live recording German hip-hop band Die Fantastischen Vier (The Fantastic Four), Alcons co-founder Tom Back will be hosting a daily presentation on how pro-ribbon transducer technology enhances the 3D experience. Tom’s sessions take place at 11am on the 6th April, noon on the 7th, 1pm on the 8th and 10am on the 9th. Click here for the presentation program: http://pls.messefrankfurt.com/frankfurt/en/besucher/events/dimension.html       Alcons Enjoys Fantastic Fourplay At ISE2011 [22-02-2011]   In addition to the company’s own stand, Alcons provided an audio system for ISE’s unique 3D theatre, a co-operative venture by a number of 3D technology manufacturers, including screens, projectors, media-servers, audio systems and acoustic panels. Featuring hourly presentations from the different equipment suppliers about 3D related topics, visitors were informed about the latest technology and it gave company co-founder Tom Back and his team the perfect opportunity to demonstrate how their systems enhance the 3D experience. “The 3D Theatre was a tremendous success,” he says. “The highlight was a 3D-recorded mini-concert of German hip-hop band Die Fantastischen Vier (The Fantastic Four). Here, the performance of the C-series, and of the Cinema Ribbon Monitor System in particular, showed its unique strength of combining Hi-Fi sound quality with concert sound pressure levels. WHe continues, “We had a very good show on our stand as well, with high levels of traffic, meeting a lot of new clients that we don’t meet at other shows in Europe. “Most of the visitors were attracted by the C-series cinema range of systems and the LR7 micro pro-ribbon line-array. The C-series CR1 and CRMS systems received a lot of attention from dealers worldwide, installing larger home theatre systems for the ‘prosumer’ market.       Alcons Aids Australia’s Scouting Mission [12-11-2010]   Live bands, stunt motorcyclists, abseiling, sports, singing competitions, gold panning, bushcraft, comedy and the wryly titled Cirque du Scouté were just some of the many activities on offer at this year’s 22nd Australian Scout Jamboree. Attracting more than 9000 scouts from across the world, the event took place in the middle of the Australian bush, about 100km from Sydney. The main arena’s audio requirements were supplied by Sydney-based Loud and Clear, who specified a comprehensive main Alcons system comprising 24 LR14, eight LR14B and eight BF181, with two further LR14s as front fills and six VR12 as stage monitors; All powered by ALC2 and ALC4 amplifiers with DDP digital drive processors. “It was a demanding job with many challenges,” says Loud And Clear’s David Betterridge. “throughout the event we had a wide variety of shows, from the official opening and closing ceremony with 30-piece orchestra, 60-strong choir, DJs and roving video feeds with audio, to high profile rock bands to even cinema. “The organisers and visiting FOH engineers from the bands all commented on how clean and clear the system was over such a large distance, especially considering that it has such a small profile”.       Alcons Enjoys Good Vibrations At PLASA2010 [22-09-2010]   PLASA2010 saw a great deal of interest lavished on Alcons Audio’s new range of subwoofers, the high output BQ211 quarter-wave loaded, all-carbon 21” subwoofer and the BC543 triple, all-carbon-coned triple 18” in bass-reflex configuration: a self-contained cardioid subwoofer or: with cardioid controllable dispersion pattern. Particular interest in the new products was shown by live sound engineers, both being the first introductions of the upcoming LR24 mid-sized pro-ribbon line-array touring system. However, both can also be used with all of the company’s current pro-ribbon line-arrays. “PLASA was a good opportunity to meet up with existing clients and make new contacts,” says Alcons’ Tom Back. “The annual Alcons dinner on Tuesday was also an enjoyable gathering of Alcons Network members and partners. It is always a great opportunity to ‘talk audio’ and enjoy the global personal relationships between Alcons users.”       Alcons premieres in Baden-Baden’s KinoKongress [24-04-2010]   Alcons can look back on a very successful “premier” participation in the annual German cinema convention (“Kino Kongress”) in Baden-Baden, with her C-series cinema sound systems. Just as it was Alcons’ first time in Baden-Baden, to get to know the cinema exhibitors better, it was also the first time for many visitors to see, meet and hear Alcons. The interested trade audience was shown a.o. the CR4 cinema system with pro-ribbon line-array technology, as well as the ultra-slim CR1 front system with a depth of only 18cm. And, last but not least the CRMS cinema reference system was demonstrated live, to enable visitors to get an idea of Alcons’ Digital Cinema ready sound systems. Tom Back and Carsten Albrecht were more than happy with the result: Carsten: “we received a very positive response throughout the show, as well as on the well-attended Alcons presentation of pro-ribbon technology in Digital Cinema.” The presentation took place during the “technology panel”, informing about the latest trends and innovations in cinema exhibition. Carsten continues: “Alcons will be back in Baden-Baden in 2011 !”.       Production Partner LR7 test on-line available. [24-04-2010] download LR7 test   The LR7 micro line-array was recently tested in German magazine Production Partner. Although published only in German language, the tests of PP are highly regarded worldwide as objective and very thorough. As a result, manufacturers see a positive conclusion of their product as a reward and recognition for all design and development work done. And so are we: With conclusions like “…The LR7 handles it very well though: in spite of the large range of 0° to 15° between the speakers the beam of the main maximum always stays very coherent…” and “…..the usual effect of opening at higher frequencies, that can often be noticed even from 10 kHz upwards, does not occur here thanks to the pro-ribbon technology, which makes the isobarics terrifically straight up to the test limit of 20 kHz…”. To round off the positive test conclusion: “To keep it simple: the LR7 offers excellent sound in every situation and performs easily with smooth, but still brilliant highs. This positive behaviour persists even when approaching the power limits.” We could not have put it any better.. Please find here the LR7 test.       Daughters of Africa accompanied by Alcons [16-04-2010] www.daughtersofafrica.nl   In March, a new theatre tour saw its premiere in Amsterdam’s Royal Theatre Carré, called “Daughters of Africa”. The sound is provided by Kater audiotechniek and Van Dijk SoundSupport. Daughters of Africa is the successor of the African Mamas tour from 2009, that attracted more than 175.000 visitors. For this new show, twelve young women were selected from eight different African countries: Their diversity and cultural backgrounds are the theme of this vibrant show, accompanied by a live band. For the première in the 1,800-seat theatre, attended by Princess Máxima, The Ribbon Network member Jan van Dijk deployed a large Alcons system, consisting of 30 units LR14 ultra-compact line-array systems. Two main clusters were built upon twelve units LR14 line-array and four units LR14B line-array bass each. Two ground stacked arrays of three LR14 units and two SR9 acted as in-fill speakers. The complete system was driven by DDP-completed ALC2 and ALC4 amplified loudspeaker controllers. “The very well-controlled projection, combined with the outstanding sonic performance made the LR14 the right system for this show”, according to Jan: “Looking at the positive comments we received, Alcons was again the right choice.”       Alcons enters Concert Touring at ProLight+Sound 2010 [09-04-2010] www.wymiwyg.info   ProLight+Sound 2010 saw Alcons Audio creating a buzz on the trade show floor with an array of products that sees it confirm its place as a major player in the pro audio market. The most noteworthy product on display was the new LR24 pro-ribbon line-array system, marking an important advance for the company within the concert touring and large-scale installation market. Designed to be able to deliver the same SPL as equivalent products in the mid-size line-array category, but with 15dB less distortion, the Alcons LR24 system utilizes Alcons’ pro-ribbon technology to set a new benchmark in terms of SPL, projection control and sound quality. The LR24 system has been developed from the ground-up, resulting in no less than three pending patents and is a complete package, comprising the LR24 mid-size three-way line-array, featuring an all-new pro-ribbon mid-high transducer platform; the LM24 low-frequency array-extension; BQ211 high-impact sub; BC543 self-contained cardioid sub and the ALC Sentinel - a powerful four channel DSP-based controller with full Class D amplifier stages. No further information will be made available until after beta-testing of the system, in cooperation with The Ribbon Network members.       ISE 2010 again a successful show for Alcons [15-02-2010]   Alcons can look back on another very successful participation in the ISE show, where Alcons displayed both her general product line and the AV / Digital Cinema product line. Tom Back: “Again, the ISE show was able to attract potentials that we would not have met at other shows. It speaks for itself that the new CRMS reference system attracted a lot of attention, with many home-theatre and sound-for-picture integrators visiting the stand to have a look and listen to this novelty. Also the micro LR7 line-array could receive the warm interest of the ISE public, following superb critics from German and French test magazines. Also, stand visitors were very impressed with our pro-ribbon sound quality from the VR8 monitors. We’ll be back at ISE in 2011 for sure!”.       Top 2000 in Concert with Alcons [11-01-2010]   The Newyear’s event Top 2000 In Concert took place in Amsterdam’s Heineken Music Hall and was broadcasted on January 1st 2010, right after the clock striked 0:00 marking the end of 2009. This eleventh edition saw national and international artists performing their own song + one personal favourite from the Top2000, among which Acda en de Munnik, Ruth Jacot, Spandau Ballet, Jamie Cullum, Björn Again, Lee Towers, Rowwen Hèze and Jeroen van der Boom. The live-sound was engineered by The Ribbon Network member Hof Audio from Haren, with the system designed by Bart Hof. Main system consisted of two flown arrays of 24 units Alcons LR16 compact line–array systems, complemented by groundstacked subwoofers. The frontfill system was configured using in total 12 units Alcons LR14 ultra-compact line-array systems. “Especially the LR14’s small front- and footprint make this speaker ideal for this application, although being an array speaker”, according to Bart. The Dutch engineers as well as Spandau Ballet’s engineer, Colin Norfield who used Alcons systems with Toto concerts were all enthusiast about the result.       First Alcons pro-ribbon seminar in Berlin [23-12-2009]   End of October, a group of Alcons owners and engineers gathered at The Ribbon Network partner Lichtwerk in Berlin, for the first Alcons pro-ribbon seminar. The participants were explained the basics of pro-ribbon technology, with historical background info up to application examples, along with Alcons’ company and product development philosophy. Main point on the program was the software- and hardware handling of the Alcons products in general and the pro-ribbon line-array systems in specific. In cooperation with Lichtwerk, Carsten Albrecht (Alcons Audio Germany) and Niels Janssen (Alcons Audio headquarters) were given the opportunity to give a “hands-on” training at Lichtwerk’s new premises, on system set-up, striking and transportation. Due to the excellent weather conditions, even an impressive far-field demo of the new LR7 micro line-array and a QR36 array of 3 metres was possible outside Lichtwerk’s warehouse. All in all a successful first Alcons training with good feedback from the participants. More to follow!       Ascon gets Alcons into Denmark [16-11-2009]   Alcons announces the establishment of the Danish representation of her products. Company Ascon Trading A/S from Aalborg has been appointed the sole Pro-Ribbon Partner for Denmark. Established in 1988 by Knud Eskildsen, the company is active in the music, installation and pro-audio market, with established brands such as Midas, Tascam, Klark-Teknik, a.o. Torben Laursen, in charge of pro-sales: “The first thing that struck us when listening to the Alcons speakers was the total lack of listening fatigue, the “in the face” vocals and the smooth response above 10kHz. It offers a 3-dimensional experience, that we haven't found anywhere else and this has been proven on every shoot out we’ve done so far. We love selling something that's different from the rest and the interest from the pro audio people has been way above our expectations.” Tom Back, Alcons Audio MD: “we think it’s essential for Alcons Pro-Ribbon Partners that there’s an “emotional click” with the product and the people. And with the Ascon team, we’ve got the right partner to represent the brand and support the Alcons users in Denmark.”       Alcons @ Uitmarkt Amsterdam [16-11-2009]   The Uitmarkt festival in the centre of Amsterdam marks since 1977 the beginning of the new cultural season, attracting an estimated 500.000 visitors. Focus Showequipment from Amsterdam was responsible for audio, video- en lighting of 17 different locations: The three largest stages featured Alcons pro-ribbon soundsystems. Much attention was there for the main stage on the Dam where artists like Matt Bianco, Ruth Jacott and Alain Clark performed with the 60member Metropole orchestra. For this stage, systemtech Gijs Schouten configured a special system, consisting of 18 Alcons LR16 line-array systems per side, left and right flanked by a special 12” mid-bassarray; This was to ensure a controlled projection, with minimal spill on stage. For sub response, per side 9 pcs. Alcons BF362 were positioned in a “3x3 end-fire” cardioid configuration. As in-fill a further 6 pcs. LR16 per side were used. According to system tech Gijs Schouten the system passed the test with enthusiastic reactions from visiting engineers. Gijs: “I was surprised how easily the system could be adjusted to all different styles of performances: The gain-before-feedback was very impressive, with so many open (orchestra) mics on stage”.       Evolutionary Audio Solutions™ in Johannesburg [05-08-2009] www.matrixsound.co.za   With a show presence extending from low-SPL demo’s on stand H14, high-SPL outdoor demo’s, sound reinforcement for the giant LED screen and a seminar on pro-ribbon technology, Alcons made itself seen and heard at Mediatech Africa through Alcons’ South African representation Matrix Corporate & Theatre Sound. On the show floor, the LR7 micro pro-ribbon line-array and the new LR7B line-array bass module were on display, as well as the other pro-ribbon line-arrays LR14 and LR16, plus a performing QR36 line-source column. The recently released LR7 caused quite a stir on the stand with a number of audio visual companies directly expressing interest in the compact, lightweight system. Trevor Peters, CEO of Matrix: “no doubt, both the LR7 and QR36 were the main ear-catchers; The 1m tall QR36 piqued everyone’s interest after Tom’s outdoor demo’s with its three degree vertical dispersion creating a focussed beam of sound over an incredibly long distance. Our decision to participate in the demo, together with most of the market’s respected brands, has proven the right one, as many listeners congratulated us on the awesome sound quality of the LR16 system. Even I was impressed again, as this was the first time we deployed the system with DDP digital drive processors. With the many leads we have to follow-up, we can look back on a great show”.        Alcons @ Frankfurt ProLight+Sound [16-04-2009]     Defying the current economic sentiment, Alcons Audio can look back on the most successful PL&S show in her existence. Main eye catcher on the stand was the “MSRA” design study; “Modular Stacked Ribbon Array”, is an evolutionary concept consisting of a vertically scalable high-power line-source monitor system, applying the excellent pro-ribbon’s (cylindrical) array ability. Highlighted product was the LR7 micro line-array, latest and smallest member of Alcons’ successful line-arrays. Flown above the LR7 array, the LR7B also attracted a lot of attention. Applying a newly developed dual-tuned concentric bandpass configuration, a single long-excursion 12” Neodymium woofer creates a highly-efficient and compact LR7 bass extension. Low-SPL demonstrations took place, with VR8 monitors and BF151 subwoofers, to enable visitors to get an idea of the quality performance of Alcons pro-ribbon systems. Tom Back: “with our stand literally packed with Alcons users and interested visitors, Alcons enjoyed again significantly increased interest. Drawing-up the balance sheet, with new distributors, a portfolio of projects and leads to follow-up, it was without doubt our best show so far. The annual Pro-Ribbon Partner dinner on Thursday night with Alcons rental-users, dealers, distributors from all over the globe saw a similarly packed restaurant”.        Alcons @ ISE [28-01-2009]     Playing on home-turf, Alcons Audio will be exhibiting her pro-ribbon sound systems at the forthcoming Integrated Systems Europe show in Amsterdam. For the first time, Alcons will display both her general product line and the AV / Digital Cinema product groups at the same time. Main focus will be on two recently introduced products: The CR1 ultra-compact 3-way AV/Digital Cinema sound system, in a 18cm/7-in. ultra-shallow MDF enclosure. It is designed to provide medium output, high quality A/V sound reproduction, for cinema theatres, board-rooms, Home Theatres / residential sound systems a.o. First install was made at the ZOO studio’s in Chile. The other highlighted product is the LR7 micro pro-ribbon line-array, latest and smallest member of Alcons’ successful pro-ribbon line-arrays, ideal for A/V projects, where very compact form factor is required, without any sacrifice on throw and imaging. Also featured product is the QR36 pro-ribbon column array system. The Q-series scalable ribbon-array columns are designed as solution to obtain excellent coverage and ultimate intelligibility over longer distances in “acoustically challenging” environments. Applications include churches, reverberant halls, and any application where beam-steering solutions doesn’t bring the desired SPL and frequency response. Latest project with QR36 is the Koekelberg basilica in Brussels. All Alcons systems are available in Color Option, for excellent interior matching. More information on our stand 1i124 or on www.alconsaudio.com        New ARC™ simulation software available for download [31-10-2008]     The latest version of ARC™ (Alcons Ribbon Calculator) for the L-series pro-ribbon line-arrays is now available for download. The V1.05 features the simulation data for Alcons’ latest line-array, LR7 and LR7/90 in both stacked and flown configuration. At the same time, also the stack configurations for LR14 with LR14B and LR16 with LR16B have been added. ARC™ is based on actual system measurement output data and is designed to offer two-dimensional modelling of Alcons' L-series pro-ribbon line-arrays and Q-series pro-ribbon column-arrays. The algorithms that drive the program take into account the coupling principles of arrayed (line-)sources. Being a set-up tool, ARC™ offers a relatively simple, intuitive modelling tool, while supplying the required prediction data for optimal system performance. To go to the ARC™ page, click here.        Alcons @ SIEL & SATIS ‘08 [10-10-2008]     For the first time ever, Alcons Audio will be participating in the upcoming SIEL SATIS show. The presence will mark the entry of the Dutch sound system brand into the French market. Tom Back: ”needless to say, the French market is a tough nut to crack; But with the flow we have in the market, the different sound experience our products offer and the opportunity the combined SIEL –SATIS show offers, we decided to participate.” Most important on the stand will be the definitive LR7; latest and smallest member of Alcons’ successful pro-ribbon line-arrays. Typed as “micro pro-ribbon line-array”, the system features a single 6.5” woofer, next to a 4” pro-ribbon driver, designed to meet the requirements of A/V projects, where very compact form factor with perfect line-array throw and imaging are required. Other Alcons developments on show in Paris are the Digital Drive Processor (DDP™), the exchangeable processing device of the ALC amplified loudspeaker controllers; The very successful LR14 ultra-compact line-array system, now available in both a 120-degree and a 90-degree version; And the VR8 ultra-compact pro-ribbon monitor. For a demo of Alcons’ famous pro-ribbon sound technology, visit booth number N39.        Alcons @ PLASA 2008 - Post-show report [09-10-2008]     Hosted for the first time under the flag of Alcons Audio UK, Alcons Audio can look back on a successful PLASA 2008 participation. Most attention on the stand went to the definitive version of the LR7, latest and smallest member of Alcons' successful pro-ribbon line-arrays. Typed as "micro pro-ribbon line-array", the system features a single 6.5" woofer, next to a 4" pro-ribbon driver, in a 15-degree vertical projection configuration. A choice of (Real!) 90-degree or 120-degree horizontal projection, makes the LR7 ideal for A/V projects, where very compact form factor with perfect line-array throw and imaging are required. Another UK-first showing was the "R-Ray" design study; Alcons shares a glimpse of R&D projects, by displaying assembled prototype products of which part developments may be applied in future products. R-Ray showed the study on achieving maximum projection control through a modular point-source cluster, utilizing (pro-ribbon) line-source technology. On Tuesday morning, as part of The PLASA08 Seminar Sessions, the "Pro-Ribbon Technology" seminar on the current status and future direction of pro-ribbon transducer technology, was very well-received and -attended. Other developments displayed on the stand were: the QR6 line-source column under-fill extension; the updated BF302 subwoofer; the V1.5 firmware version of Alcons proprietary Digital Drive Processor; a.o. Tom Back: "It is always a tough one to organise the show, but show attendance was good and it has been an excellent platform for launching Alcons Audio UK. It was great to see the positive response on getting Steve (Badham) on board. We initiated the annual London Pro-Ribbon Partner dinner on Tuesday night with our UK and global "ambassadors" (rental-users, dealers, distributors), which will become a nice tradition."        Alcons presents “pro-ribbon technology” seminar at PLASA [01-09-2008] www.plasashow.com   As part of The PLASA08 Seminar Sessions, Alcons Audio UK will host a seminar on “pro-ribbon technology” at the show. “HiFi quality sound system response” and “high-SPL sound reinforcement” have always been looked at as a contradiction, seemingly impossible to merge. When looking at the requirements of modern day media, current 80+ year old compression-driver mid/high frequency transducer technology seems to be reaching the end of its capabilities. Changing demands require new thinking; Dutch manufacturer Alcons Audio has been implementing since five years (proprietary) pro-ribbon transducer technology in her sound systems, ranging from point-source, line-source to line-array systems. In a one-hour presentation, main focus will be on explanation in a popular-scientific way, the current status of pro-ribbon mid/high frequency transducer technology, like history, durability/reliability, etc. and the implementation of it in real-world high SPL applications. The seminar takes place on Tuesday September 9, from 11.00am - 12.00pm and will be presented by Steve Badham and Tom Back. More information and booking of (free) tickets at http://www.plasashow.com/seminars/        Alcons again “award-winning” at Musical Awards Gala [19-06-2008] www.focusamsterdam.com   The live-televised 2008 Dutch Musical Awards Gala brought the award ceremony, for the best musicals of 2008. The first two award-winning musicals feature an Alcons sound system; As expected, “Ciske de Rat, the musical” broke all records with no less than 7 awards, out of 13 nominations; This musical is not only the most-successful Dutch musical, but the largest touring musical ever as well. The show is on tour with an Alcons LR14 system, BF302 subs, ALC amplified controllers a.o. Runner-up in total number of awards was Les Miserables, with 4 awards; This musical is performed in Rotterdam’s Nieuwe Luxor theatre; With a large number of Alcons LR16’s, SR9’s, subs and ALC’s. During the Gala, previews of new productions were performed as “appetizer” for the coming theater season. As last year, the Awards Gala itself was also amplified through an Alcons pro-ribbon sound system; This year, designer Jeroen ten Brinke, decided to opt for 7 arrays of 8 pcs.LR16 pro-ribbon compact line-arrays each. Being a live-broadcasted event, sightline-disruption (for sake of best sound projection) is out of the question, so multiple arrays had to be flown, with a steep tilt downwards. The complete system was supplied by Focus advanced event technologies of Amsterdam.        Alcons auditioned for the X-Factor! [19-06-2008] www.dwa.me.uk   Recently, DWA of Oxted, Surrey supplied an Alcons LR14 system for the preliminary round of the X-Factor auditions. Already in its fourth series, the show is one of England’s most popular broadcasting concepts. With auditions held in Londons’ o2 Arena, some 34,000 people attended over 2 days. Dave Woodman, MD of DWA commented on the system for holding area outside: “Acoustically it was amazing; We ran the LR14 full range. I paced out the area to 120 metres deep, and loud and clear sound was travelling all that way, almost fullrange! This was particularly impressive as the Genie lifts were angled so you could only ever see one of the PA towers. The presenter used one B87 handheld radiomic NEXT to the PA, which was throwing his (soft) voice 120metres!!! “ Dave enthusiastically continues: “After we rigged the system it absolutely poured down with rain for 2 days. We packed the PA away overnight, but I am please to say that even with water running down the front of the grilles, it all still works fine! “        The Word spoken out loud (and clear) [19-06-2008] www.hof.nl   In the second weekend of May, the annual Whitsun conference “Opwekking” was held for the 38th time, this year again in the event area of Walibi World in Biddinghuizen. In the course of years this family conference has developed into a weekend event where thousands of Christians from several churches and municipalities jointly celebrate Whitsun. The event, attracting this year no less than 50.000 visitors (of which around 15.000 were staying on the camping ground) has a diverse program, performed on different stages. As in previous years, the organization turned to the company Hof audio – light- visual for the sound reinforcement of the whole event. The system for the Main Stage outdoor consisted of 3 arrays of 15 pcs. LR16 pro-ribbon line-array + 3 pcs. LR16B line-array bass each, with each array flown from a separate crane, to have enough height to reach even the farthest listening positions. Totalling a 45 units LR16 and 9 units LR16B, driven and controlled by ALC4 amplified loudspeaker controllers™ all with Digital Drive Processors™ and fed by a Midas XL8 live performance system. Inside, in the tent, to support the stage and video screens, another 18 units LR16 (2x 9) + 4x LR16B were flown.        James Taylor on Alcons! [01-05-2008] www.profimusik.de   The American Folksinger/songwriter James Taylor performed at the Hamburger Laieszhalle with his One Man Band, Larry Goldings, accompanying him on piano and keyboards. The five-time Grammy winner, with 20 albums made and around 40 million records sold, has a career spanning almost 40 years. With famous songs like “Fire and Rain”, “Sweet Baby James” and “You’ve Got A Friend”, he still sings and plays the guitar on his “One Man Band” European tour. The Alcons system deployed by Profimusik in Hamburg consisted of: 6x LR16 per side, with 6x LR14 as underhang, powered and controlled by ALC2 and DDP processing, with for bass fundament 1x BF302MK2 per side on ALC6 with DDP processing. As stage-lip fill for the first rows, 4 units SR9 with ALC2 and DDP came into play. His engineer David Morgan and James’ crew were extremely happy with the system sound. Or to quote a visitor: “Super! I’ve never heard such a good sound during a concert. It is perhaps not that difficult to obtain with just one voice and two instruments, but it was striking how cleanly, powerful and clear his voice and instruments came over”. Do we need to say more?        Alcons launches the new release of ARC™ [01-05-2008] Go to ARC™ section   The Alcons Ribbon Calculator™ is Alcons’ line-array simulation and set-up tool, turning the Alcons line-arrays and line-source columns into a precision instrument. Instead of developing a proprietary tool, Alcons decided to commit to standardised simulation platform; Not only to have optimised integration between line-array set-up tool and acoustical project simulations, but also to have a platform where users can compare different systems from different manufacturers. The Alcons ARC™ was developed in cooperation with Software Design Ahnert GmbH, the originators of the industry-standard EASE electro-acoustic design a.o. The ARC™ data files are compliant to the EASE Focus platform. ARC™ is based on actual system measurement output data and is designed to offer two-dimensional modelling of Alcons’ L-series pro-ribbon line-arrays and Q-series pro-ribbon column-arrays. The algorithms that drive the program take into account the coupling principles of arrayed (line-)sources. Being a set-up tool, ARC™ offers a relatively simple, intuitive modelling tool, while supplying the required prediction data for optimal system performance. Currently, ARC™ files are available for LR16 compact line-array, LR14/LR14-90 ultra-compact line-array, QR18 and QR36 line-source column arrays.        DDP™ firmware release V1.5 [28-04-2008] Go to DDP™ download area   The V1.5 firmware for the Digital Drive Processor has a number of new features, additions and optimisations:The phase response of the LR14 has been optimized, in combination with LR16 array (LR14 as downfill). The superb phase matching provides a uniform coverage in the vertical plane. Together with the first shipments of the LR14/90 line-array, the new presets for this model have been included in V1.5. Array-length optimisation, stacked or flown configurable and a choice of cross-over settings, to match LR14B bass and B-series subwoofers. A new option in BF181/BF362 presets is selectable response settings: after the system type/filtering has been chosen, one of three response settings can be selected: “sub”, “bass” and “punch”. Herewith you can chance the response from sub into more punch/kick LF response. A new option in BF181 presets; settings are included for BF181 when used in cardioid subwoofer arrays. These settings are based on a stack of 3 BF181 cabinets, with the center cabinet rotated 180-degrees and controlled by the cardioid processing setting, a cardioid (“rearward rejection”) pattern is achieved.        Alcons’ Prolight+Sound “best ever” [21-03-2008]   Becoming an annual “stand feature”, Alcons shares a glimpse of R&D projects, by displaying assembled prototype products of which part developments may be applied in future products. This year’s “R-Ray” showed the study on achieving maximum projection control through a modular point-source cluster, utilizing (pro-ribbon) line-source technology. The viewing of the LR7, latest and smallest member of Alcons’ successful line-arrays, also attracted a lot of attention. Typed as “micro pro-ribbon line-array”, the system features a single 6.5” woofer, next to a 4” pro-ribbon driver, in a 15-degree vertical projection configuration, with a choice of (Real!) 90-degree or 120-degree horizontal projection. Tom Back: “our fifth anniversary was the best show so far: Looking at the amount of stand visitors, the number of new contacts, the “buzz” that’s going through the market; We could also measure the Alcons’ success by looking at the number of copies we saw.. The annual Pro-Ribbon Partner dinner on Thursday night really showed the bond between Alcons “ambassadors” (rental-users, dealers, distributors) from countries from all over the globe; It’s this team spirit that is key to our motivation to continue improving our performance in any possible way”.        Alcons “down-under” in Australia [25-02-2008] www.loudandclear.com.au   For the second time, Alcons was present at the Entech 2008 show, with distributor Loud and Clear Sales. Dave Betteridge, MD Loud and Clear Sales: "The show was very good for Alcons; it was clearly (..) visible that awareness of and interest in Alcons has steeply increased, since Alcons' first Australian appearance at Entech 2006. A lot of brand recognition of people not yet involved with Alcons, but also a lot of hands-on experience from engineers, that have worked with the pro-ribbon systems. For a large part due to the reference pro-ribbon projects and rental activities in Australia, with specific theatres around Sydney.” On show the triple LR14 line-array on stand, as well as the QR36 pro-ribbon column array received a lot of interest. In the coming months, even more Alcons demo equipment will be flown into the country to be able to follow-up all requests.        Sonus introduces Alcons in Slovenia [07-12-2007] www.sonus.si   A presentation and demonstration of the V-series, Q-series and of course the LR16 Ribbon line-array marked the inroads Alcons is making in the Slovenian market. Alcons Pro-Ribbon Partner for Slovenia, Sonus, organized the event in the Narodni Dom cultural centre in Maribor. Coinciding with the Izzven jazz festival in the same location, the introduction started with a lecture of Tom about the development of pro-ribbon technology, continued with different demonstrations of VR8, QR36 and LR14 configurations and was finished with a concert in the evening. Charlie Hunter, kicking-off the festival with his remarkable eight-string guitar (allowing him to play bass and guitar at the same time!) put the LR14 system with BF362 subs through its paces. Behind the FOH controls during the festival weekend was Gaber Lesjak, engineer of rental company Bobencek (with Miha Plohl of Bobencek audio on monitors). Borut Celik, managing director of Sonus: “the show-up of invitees at the demo was very good and we could notice that the “Alcons” name has already been going through the market for some time. Together with the projects we’ve already materialized, this presentation clearly proved the potential of Alcons in Slovenia.” photo courtesy of Žiga Koritnik   Gaber, Tom, Borut (l. to r.)      Alcons @ Music Moscow show [06-12-2007] Ltm.com.ru   Alcons was present at the Music Moscow show through her Russian Pro-Ribbon Partner LTM Music. For already the 7th year, LTM participated with no less than 3 booths with a surface of 240 m2 in total. The absolute unique part of the Music Moscow show is the “sound hall”: In this hall, a manufacturer can demonstrate its sound system for 5 minutes at full (!) SPL. After 5 minutes, the next door neighbour performs its demo, etc.. In this way, a visitor follow the different sound performances through the hall. Konstantin Guzev of LTM: “there’s always lots of interest in the loud demos. Most vendors try to attract customers with bright lights, special messages, even live shows! Almost like a birds bridling dance! As a contrast, we always demo the Alcons sound through sound quality: The pure-fidelity flow makes orthodox Russian souls vibrating, even with playing the “popular" pro-audio-tests tracks. Again a great show!”        O’mage, South Africa’s latest The Ribbon Network member [19-11-2007] www.omage.com   O’Mage is more than just a production house; They create events, environments and interactive experiences that engage and entertain audiences while delivering corporate communication objectives. They have now gone a step further with the acquisition of a considerable amount of high-end technical equipment. Their choice, when it came to purchasing a line-array sound system, was the Alcons Audio LR14 system complete with LR14B’s and being powered by Alcons ALC2 and ALC4 amplifiers. The system was delivered recently by Matrix Sound of Johannesburg and christened in the warehouse with the team flattening a bottle of Moët to celebrate! The LR14 system was purchased with all flying and ground stacking options enabling maximum flexibility and the ability to adapt comfortably to almost any venue. The highly-integrated speaker-amp-processing and unified logistics for easy dry-hire expansion, was a large part of the attraction to join The Ribbon Network in South-Africa.        Alcons present in Portugal [19-10-2007]   Through Pro-Ribbon Partner for the Portuguese market, Arte Dos Sons, Alcons was present at the Musicalia sound & light show in Lisbon. Timed shortly after the PLASA show in London, it was the first time Alcons was present at this bi-annual show, with LR14, LR14B, SR9, VR12 and BF181(controlled by the ALC incl. the DDP drive processor). Joaquim Pais de Olivera, owner and MD of Arte Dos Sons: ”with all activities we deployed with Alcons over the last year in Portugal, it was a simple decision to be here. It was a very successful show with lots of interest in the pro-ribbon technology and a good number of leads to follow-up. The Portuguese market is relatively small with a large number of brands represented; However, the very different technology and sound quality or Alcons’ pro-ribbon systems is raising a lot of attention throughout the market”.        Alcons enters Finland [18-10-2007]   At the PLASA show, an agreement was reached between Alcons Audio and Oy Hedcom from Helsinki for the representation of the Alcons product range for the Finnish market. Hedcom were already active with some Alcons products in Finland with great success and very enthusiastic feedback. Jarmo Roivas, MD of Hedcom; ” In a small but technologically intelligent market such as ours we need to efficiently cover all vertical markets and niche’s with dedicated and appropriate solutions demanded by our customers. This applies to all of Hedcom´s divisions including our AV, broadcast and lighting systems businesses. This can only be done with the right tools. Alcons pro-ribbon line source technology is unique and provides these specialist solutions and tools." Tom: “we’ve been working together for some years on the T-series now, but we knew someday the time would come, where the pro-ribbon products would attract attention in Finland; That time has come and Hedcom is the best Pro-Ribbon partner to bring the Alcons products to the market.”   Jarmo Roivas, Ari Manninen, Tom      Alcons’ 5th PLASA show in London [02-10-2007]   Alcons’ 5th PLASA show in London, was again a very successful one; Many new clients and interested potential Alcons users found their way to the Alcons stand, this year located on the ground floor of Hall 1 in the new PLASA format with 2 ground floor halls, deleting the upper-level stand space. Tom: “We can look back on another very successful event, where we could welcome many new Alcons-interested people and existing clients from around the globe: Denmark, Israel, Sweden, United Arab Emirates a.o. It was good to see that they could find us on the main floor of Hall1 between the diversity of light, hazer en sound exhibitors, where in previous years people could easily go upstairs to see (the majority of) audio manufacturers and exhibitors.” Following its presentation at Frankfurt’s ProLight & Sound, the Phitom “large-format pro-ribbon sound-reinforcement” design study was also present in London and proved again to be the centre-point of interest and discussion. Besides this, also the Q-series pro-ribbon column arrays and the L-series pro-ribbon line-arrays were on show, including the LR16 line-array, as featuring in London WestEnd’s Fame, the musical. Tom continued: “With PLASA also attracting user groups from different territories + taking place in the second-half of the year, the show continues to be an important platform for our international presence.”        Disney’s Beauty & the Beast moved to Berlin [09-08-2007]   After a very successful period in the Metronom theatre in Oberhausen, Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” has moved to the Theater at Potsdamerplatz in Berlin. With the beautiful costumes, impressive décor and vibrant music arrangements and choreography, the Joop van den Ende / Stage Entertainment production also received great critics from the Berlin media. The musical sound is being reinforced through a large Alcons pro-ribbon line-array system, designed by awarded sound designer Jeroen ten Brinke. The sound design consists of three vertically flown arrays, of 10 units LR16 each, as left, center and right. For front, there are two stacks of 4 units LR14 left and right; Front-fill is taken care of by 8 units SR9, while bass is reinforced by 6 units BF302. All Alcons systems are powered and controlled by ALC4 and SDP analog processing.        JazzBaltica 2007 [30-07-2007] www.profimusik.de   At this year’s edition of the “JazzBaltica” Jazz Festival in Salzau, Germany, artists like Gary Burton, Nils Landgren and Chick Corea, a.o. were reinforced through Alcons sound systems. Responsible for the sound in the different performance areas of the event was company Profimusik from Lüneburg. Jürgen Thiele, Profimusik founder und MD: “the fantastic results from last year’s Randy Crawford tour left no choice but to utilize Alcons systems.” Besides the excellent sound quality, another requirement for the sound system was to be very compact, avoiding (live) broadcasting sightline obstruction. Thiele again: “we’ve developed an interesting concept, where we use 4x LR16 und 1x LR16B as center array, with one QR36 pro-ribbon line-source column per side for the stereo-imaging. This combination guarantees a perfect synergy between throw and sound from a, for tv-recording virtually invisible, sound system.” Also in the second (smaller) area, the Alcons pro-ribbon sound was very convincing; Here an LR14 system consisting of 3x LR14 + 2x LR14B array for left/right and 3x LR14 as center-array came into play. All systems dedicatedly powered and controlled by Alcons ALC’s.        TOTO on Alcons (again) [25-07-2007] www.blue-sound-gmbh.de   Recently, the superband Toto played on Alcons while visiting Germany, on their European “Falling In Between" Tour 2007. The famous classic-rock band known for tophits like “Hold the line”, “Rosanna” and “Africa” and her all-star member line-up, is touring to promote their 18th and latest album “Falling in Between”. For this tour, the band consisted of: Bobby Kimball (vocals), Steve Lukather (lead guitar), Simon Philipps (drums), Greg Phillinganes (keyboards, vocals) and long-bearded Leland Sklar (bass), replacing Mike Porcaro. For the gig in Bremerhaven, Herbert Heinze of Blue Sound Veranstaltungstechnik, technical director and responsible for the light and sound, designed a sound system based on Alcons pro-ribbon line-arrays. The system consisted of in total 36pcs. LR16 (main left/right), 12pcs. LR16B (bass left/right), 12pcs. LR14 (under-fill left/right), powered and controlled by 17pcs. ALC. Sub was handled by 16 pcs. double 18”. Overall system control was taken care of by a Dolby Lake processor. Console of choice was a Digidesign Venue. Reaction from TOTO’s engineer Jon Ostrin, short and sweet : “The Alcons pro-ribbon line-array is a great system: I love it!”        Successful Alcons introduction in Greece [16-07-2007] http://www.ima.gr   Under a temperature of 40+ degrees Celsius, well-established pro-audio distributor IMA of Greece introduced the Alcons product range to the Greek market. With the great skyline of the hills just outside of Athens as background and the undivided attention of the attendees, the complete product line was presented and explained by Tom. The day after the presentation, there was already press coverage on the Internet. The IMA team built a stage where complete LR14/LR14B and LR16/LR16B arrays were flown and the also erected an FOH tent, enabling the visitors to work on the systems themselves. Michalis Asitzoglou, MD of IMA: “we could welcome many rental companies and consultants from all over Greece; We even had a few sound engineers that came from gigs, without having had any sleep which was a clear demonstration of the interest Alcons is generating! Alcons is a great addition to our port-folio, serving the top-level clients. We can look back on a very successful event, as kick-off for Alcons on the Greek market”.   The IMA team     Alcons’ “award-winning” at Musical Awards Gala [11-06-2007] http://www.stichtingmusicalawards.nl   At this year’s live-televised Dutch Musical Awards Gala, not only were two “Alcons reinforced” musicals awarded, but also the Awards Gala itself was amplified through an Alcons pro-ribbon sound system. “Rembrandt, the musical”, produced by Stardust Theatre in 2006 (the “Rembrandt year”) received the award for best male actor (Henk Poort) and best (set and costume) design (Jan Aarntzen); The Alcons sound system for the Rembrandt production in Royal Theater Carré in Amsterdam consisted of 26 units LR16 and 15 units ALC4 and was supplied by Orbital Sound from London. The Audience Award for the best large musical went to “The Wiz”, produced by Joop van den Ende theaterproductions. The Alcons sound system for the Wiz production in the Beatrix Theater Utrecht consists of 30 units LR16, 8 units LR14, 8 units BF302 and 23 units ALC and was supplied by Focus showequipment from Amsterdam. Nice detail of the Audience Award was that all three nominated productions (Rembrandt, The Wiz and Cats) feature(d) Alcons pro-ribbon sound systems. The Oeuvre Award went to the famous British producer Sir Cameron Mackintosh. During the Gala, snippets of new productions were performed as preview for the coming season. The Gala in Studio 24 in Hilversum was reinforced by an Alcons LR14 line-array configuration, with main system per side 10x LR14 and 2x LR14B ea. and 3x down-fill of 6x LR14 ea. Engineered by (awarded!) designer Jeroen ten Brinke, supplied by Focus showequipment.       Maranatha Church South-Africa chooses Alcons [21-05-2007] http://www.matrixsound.co.za/   After a lengthy period of time during which a number of the players in the pro-audio industry did demonstrations of their sound systems, Maranatha Community Church chose to go with Alcons for the upgrade of their sound system. The Matrix Sound team designed a system based on the L-series: The left and right hangs each consist of one LR14B and six LR14 enclosures while the centre hang consists of three LR16’s with three LR14’s underneath them. The LR14’s are seamlessly attached with the Alcons CNVB14 adaptor bracket. The entire system is being powered and controlled with Alcons ALC2’s. Trevor Peters, MD of Matrix: “The challenge was to provide even, quality coverage on the three sides of the venue containing upstairs seating - as well as even, quality coverage downstairs from right in front of the stage to under the balcony at the very back – without flying any delay speakers. This was achieved by hanging the three drops of speakers on the arc of a circle and by combining LR16’s and LR14’s in the centre, to cater for longest throw in the venue. In the final analysis this installation is much more than simply supplying a newer speaker system. It is a venue-specific design which in combination with the correct product ultimately delivers the desired results.”       Alcons’ 5th edition of ProLight & Sound [16-04-2007]   Alcons’ 5th edition of ProLight & Sound was a very successful one, with again further increased interest and attention from the sound-reinforcement market. Tom: “We can look back on a very successful event, with a larger stand on a (much) better, central position within Hall 8.0. Needless to say the Phitom pro-ribbon design study was a real “head-turner”, but also the shown VR8 top + new BF151 compact bass system astounded many when played. The 4 meter QB363 bass array was a visual statement of our vision on array technology.” The annual Alcons dinner on Thursday evening was a great mix of Alcons relations from around the world, with delegations from South-Africa, Russia, Sweden, Germany, Belgium, Austria, to name a few, all sharing the same passion: Alcons. Right before the show it was decided to clear the “Phitom” design study for exhibition on the Alcons stand. This evolutionary design concept is a study on how to implement pro-ribbon technology into a large-scale sound reinforcement system. Utilizing a complete new generation of extreme-power pro-ribbon transducer technology, as well as new state-of-the-art cone driver designs, this development platform was without doubt the highlight of the Alcons stand. Tom continued: “”HiFi at concert SPL’s” has always been seen as the “Holy Grail” of sound reinforcement market; With Phitom we wanted to show that that Holy Grail is now within reach. Every input we received on the study will be used for further research done on our pro-ribbon transducer technology in general and the development of larger-scale systems in specific”.       Alcons in Guatemala [27-02-2007] http://www.proacoustic.ws/son_profe.htm   Recently, the first Alcons system ever landed in Guatemala, South America. Company ProAcoustic took delivery of a complete LR14 system, with 12 units of LR14, 4 units of LR14B and ALC4 processor-amplification. Julio Nápoles, owner of ProAcoustic: “Believe it or not: We’ve bought the system unheard! In all honesty, the system managed to exceed our expectations. We are very happy with Alcons LR14, I have 20 years of experience in sound, and this is the best sound than I have listened to in my race, Congratulations!” Right after the delivery of the LR14 system, it was put through its paces on Christian convention “Profesia 2006". ProAcoustic has already a group of very interested clients lined-up for evaluation demos       Jan Jaap van der Wal on tour [27-02-2007] www.janjaapvanderwal.tk   Jan Jaap van der Wal is a nationally famous stand-up comedian and currently touring the Netherlands with his “BSUR” (“be as you are”) reprise show, on an Alcons LR14 pro-ribbon line-array. His sound engineer for quite a few years has been Jochum Vrijland of Pudding Theatertechniek Amsterdam. Alcons was Jochum’s system of choice, almost right from the beginning of Alcons Audio! Jochum: I’m very happy to work with this talented guy; His sharpness and timing is almost second to none. However, in the speed of his performance, speech intelligibility is very difficult to achieve. For this I need the right tools to get it right. Line-arrays have proven themselves already in these type of applications, but Alcons is my absolute favorite. The transparent high frequencies cater for an unsurpassed intelligibility en the natural “air” around the voice makes it very comfortable to listen to. This is an excellent asset, as for an audience it’s not easy to listen to one voice for 1,5 hours, regardless of how good the performance is. The quick set-up and strike makes it also comfortable for me.”       Alcons @ Integrated Systems Europe ‘07 [27-02-2007]   Playing on “home-turf” Alcons Audio was present at the ISE show in Amsterdam with a representation of her pro-ribbon speaker systems of both the general product line-up as well as the (home)cinema product line-up. Both offering unusual solutions in a wide variety of installs. “Ear-catching” detail was the 5 meter flown array of QR36 pro-ribbon columns; Cylindrically projecting bird sounds over the isle with a length of 50meters, it caught the ears of many visitors! Tom: “Although we didn’t know quite what to expect, as the show tends to lean mostly towards video, we had a great show where we could meet a lot of AV integrators, as well as many of our rental companies, specializing in the corporate / AV market. A surprisingly good show for Alcons.”