DiGiCo and KLANG are returning to Barcelona for ISE 2023 with another opportunity for visitors to experience DiGiCo’s Quantum range of consoles, its 4REA4 installation system and KLANG’s innovative immersive in-ear mixing systems.

The DiGiCo Quantum 7 features 600 channels of processing in 96kHz operation, eight assignable MADI connections and two DMI slots (DiGiCo Multi-Channel Interface) for AoIP along with other connectivity options from the complete family of DMI card options. Other powerful enhancements include Nodal Processing and True Solo.

The Quantum 338 provides power and connectivity in a compact format. It includes 128 input channels with 64 busses and a 24 x 24 matrix, all with full channel processing. There is a new look and feel dark mode application and three 17-inch, 1000 nit high brightness multitouch screens, allowing both the meter bridge and soft quick select buttons to be displayed on each screen.

The Quantum 225 has been developed to meet the demands of the changing environment of live events. Specified with the DQ-Rack with integrated Dante, it also delivers the perfect system for AV installation and the demands of an AoIP networking environment.

Designed to run as either a stand-alone install system, as an enhancement to an existing installed system, or to add install functionality to a multi-console setup, the 4REA4 is a powerful low latency FPGA based audio engine, featuring allocative processing, customisable I/O and a range of programmable hardware controllers, while delivering high quality audio that lives up to the DiGiCo name.

KLANG’s immersive in-ear mixing systems will also be featured on the stand, including the KLANG:konductor, KLANG:kontroller and KLANG:quelle.

The KLANG:konductor is the most powerful and versatile immersive in-ear mixing processor to date, delivering connectivity that is ready for today and tomorrow. Designed with monitor engineers and fixed installations in mind, the high-end mixing system delivers 16 immersive mixes and processes 128 input signals at up to 96kHz, at an astonishing internal latency of less than 0.25ms.

KLANG:kontroller is the first hardware controller with full control right at your fingertips. It delivers fast tactile user control of channels, groups and immersive mixing via an intuitive interface. The times of outdated name tags and dialling through all channels are over with eight displays providing clear channel names and colour coding.

KLANG:vokal is designed specifically to match the feature set of the KLANG:kontroller, but can also work as a standalone immersive processor. Based on KLANG’s powerful, new generation, ultra-low latency FPGA core, KLANG:vokal offers 12 mixes of 24 mono or stereo inputs at 48kHz and 96kHz, including the revolutionary Root-Intensity EQs.

“ISE is always a great opportunity to meet our customers and remind them of the benefits of DiGiCo and KLANG’s solutions,” says DiGiCo Managing Director, Austin Freshwater. “After a successful return to the show in 2022, we’re looking forward to an even busier 2023 edition.”

See DiGiCo and KLANG on Stand 7F300 at ISE 2023 from 31^st January to 3^rd Feb.

Welcome to issue 7 of Audio Media International

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Stephen Bennett speaks to DiGiCo’s Austin Freshwater about the integration of KLANG’s immersive in-ear monitoring system into the company’s console software…

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One of the strangest things I found when I started to play live music was that the all-important monitoring systems always seemed to be set up to fire the sound right at your knees. When I asked monitoring engineers to place the wedges at head height, they looked at me as if I were mad. Things have moved on and now we have monitoring systems that are actually placed in the ear – result!

However, even the best in-ear systems can create a feeling of separation and isolation and you’ll often see performers with one earpiece dangling down over their shoulder to try to get some of that live ‘vibe’ back. Traditional stereo just doesn’t have enough ‘space’ for multiple monitor inputs – you’ll usually need to use EQ to separate out the different instruments, which opens its own can of sonic worms.

New technologies are being developed to enhance the experience of those using in-ear monitoring systems and one of these is the KLANG system which comprises the Fabrik hardware, KOS firmware (now at version 3.1) and a software application. This ‘3D’ in-ear system is designed to produce ‘spatial’ or ‘immersive’ monitor mixes that can be created and controlled by the artist. The upshot of this is that KLANG’s system gives the artists and engineer a wider sound ‘stage’ to play with.

The application features a representation of a head and the instruments to be placed in the monitor mix. The artist then has complete personal control over where in the 3D ‘field’ they lie and the levels of each feed. KLANG’s system can also work with a positional sensor that allows the immersive field to track the artist’s head movement. So, if a singer has placed the drums behind them and turns to look back (while punching the air, of course), the position of the drums in the in-ear monitors also changes.

KLANG is now part of DiGiCo and has been working alongside the company for several years, as Austin Freshwater, DiGiCo’s relatively new general manager, explains. “We share the same distributor in the USA and that allowed us to get very close to the KLANG team and also the products in their range.”

Freshwater says that once you have heard the KLANG system and experienced immersive in-ear mixing, it is very hard to go back to stereo: “Being able to position sources around your head not only allows more space for the audio signals, but on average allows the monitor engineer to reduce the levels by 6dB. These two things combine to reduce ear fatigue and allow an artist to have a more natural on-stage experience.”

DiGiCo has also worked with immersive speakers from L-Acoustics and d&b to enhance the audience’s experience. “These are all designed for the audiences’ perspective, but when we started working with KLANG it was clear their technology would bring major advantages for artists on stage and the monitor engineers, too,” says Freshwater.

He adds that performance setups are becoming more and more complex and one of the challenges for a monitor engineer is how quickly they can set up and control the multiple mixes that they are in charge of, and that integrating the KLANG control into the DiGiCo console software allows them to control the system within their normal workflow. “The functionality provided by the KLANG/DiGiCo system removes the complication of setting up these immersive mixes and allows an engineer to quickly give the artist access to all the audio components they will need to create a bespoke monitor mix,” says Freshwater.

Connectivity between the KLANG system and the DiGiCo console is over Ethernet via the Open Sound Control (OSC) protocol. “The new DiGiCo Quantum 7 console has some fantastic features specifically designed to aid the monitor engineer, such as True Solo and Nodal processing,” explains Freshwater. “KLANG adds to the console’s monitor software suite, which allows DiGiCo to create a complete package that covers both front of house and monitoring.”

Freshwater says that KLANG’s immersive in-ear system allows monitor engineers to bring the sound that is important to an artist into focus: “Sounds that appear in front of us are perceived as more important than sounds coming from the side or behind, so immersive in-ear mixes sound much more natural and comfortable than traditional stereo – and that is key to convince artists to keep both ear pieces in and benefit from the advantages of in-ear monitoring.”

As the KLANG system offers personal mixing on stage, with smartphones or tablets, the monitor engineer can now work collaboratively with the artist who then has complete and precise control over what they want to hear – a far cry from ‘wedge’ based monitoring. KLANG’s system is at the cutting edge of immersive in-ear monitoring, but as the technology advances and further improvements and innovation are made in both hardware and software, the DiGiCo/KLANG collaboration should reap rewards: “One of the great things about KLANG is the team of people working there,” says Freshwater. “With the resources of DiGiCo now available to them, it is certain the exciting new product ideas they have can now be developed further.”

If you want to hear the spectacular difference 3D monitoring can make, download the application from the company’s website and run the demos. Your monitoring experience will never be the same again.

www.klang.com

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DiGiCo is demonstrating the integration of KLANG:technologies immersive in-ear mixing into its SD-Range and the latest A3232 DMI for S-Series consoles at Prolight + Sound 2019.

ISE gave a first glimpse of the advantages the collaboration of DiGiCo and KLANG:technologies will bring to its customers. Now, Prolight + Sound 2019 gives a first opportunity to experience a working version of their new control integration for immersive in-ear mixing; the bidirectional control of mixes and immersive pan positioning will allow monitor engineers to provide fully immersive IEM feeds as part of their normal workflow.

A beta version of the software will be running on the SD7 Quantum 7, SD10 and SD12 96 throughout the show.

Also, first shown at NAMM and ISE, the A3232 DMI card from DiGiCo’s 4REA4 Range is now incorporated into the S-Series consoles. This I/O expansion allows the 4REA4 I/O to be directly connected to S-Series consoles, widening the I/O possibilities. Part of this upgrade, the recently launched S21-Stage48 and S31-Stage48 system, offered with 48 Mic inputs from stage via three A168STAGEracks, will also be on show.

“There was a lot of interest in what DiGiCo’s acquisition of KLANG would bring when it was first announced, which were soon dispelled when the logic of having immersive in-ear mixing capability integrated into DiGiCo consoles became apparent,” said DiGiCo general manager Austin Freshwater. “We are delighted to be able to show a working version of the software so quickly and to fully demonstrate the groundbreaking nature of the collaboration between the two companies.”

DiGiCo can be found on Stand 8.0 F40 at Prolight + Sound 2019 this week.

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HD Pro Audio is holding a Technology Workshop in the Oak Room of the h Club in London’s Covent Garden on Monday, 25 March.

Presentations on the day will include KLANG:technologies’ immersive IEM mix engine, and the Waves eMotion LV1 live mixing console, based on SoundGrid technology with industry-standard Waves plug-ins. This compact and customisable software-based mixer will be complemented by the latest Rupert Neve Designs RMP-D8 8ch preamp with Dante audio networking and remote control.

Lastly is the Green-GO networked digital intercom system, offering flexibility and routing using a traditional network infrastructure. The event will also provide the opportunity to evaluate the increasingly popular 10EaZy sound level monitoring and logging system, designed for venues and events of all shapes and sizes.

HD Pro Audio staff and manufacturers’ representatives will be on hand to provide a comprehensive overview of all technologies on show, as well as hands-on demonstrations.

The workshop will run from 11:00am to 5:00pm and lunch is provided. The event is free but numbers are limited, so anyone wishing to attend should book their place as soon as possible online at https://goo.gl/5ZGERk or by email to info@hdproaudio.co.uk

HD Pro Audio’s sales director, Andy Huffer, commented, “These popular workshops provide a relaxed environment in which attendees can familiarise themselves with new products and real life use of advanced technologies, with experienced professionals on hand to discuss and answer questions.”

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DiGiCo has launched a number of new products at ISE 2019, including the expansion of the DMI-AMM (Automatic Mic Mixing) card onto DMI enabled SD-Range consoles, the A3232 DMI for S-Series and the initial steps of the planned integration of KLANG:Technologies immersive in-ear mixing into the SD-Range.

The DMI-AMM allows up to 64 channels of automatic mic mixing on both DiGiCo’s flagship SD7 Quantum and the SD12 console. Designed in direct response to requests from the corporate market, the DMI-AMM is designed to benefit any production where complex vocal mic setups are in use.

Insertable on any input channel, be it local or rack I/O, the DMI-AMM is designed to assist engineers with multiple spoken voices. It is incorporated into the console’s user interface, allowing a continuous workflow that does not hinder the operation of the console.

In both the SD7 Quantum and SD12 consoles, the DMI-AMM offers 64 channels of processing which can be used in any console input channel. There are two independent AMMs implemented by the DMI-AMM, known as AMM-A and AMM-B, with channels assigned to either A or B or neither.

The A3232 DMI card from the 4REA Range is now incorporated into the S-Series consoles. This I/O expansion allows for the 4REA4 I/O to be directly connected to the S-Series, widening the I/O possibilities. As part of this upgrade a newly launched S21-Stage48 and S31-Stage48 system are being offered with 48 Mic inputs from stage via three 168 Stage racks.

Finally, following the recent acquisition of KLANG:Technologies by DiGiCo, the two companies are showcasing the first stage of their control integration of immersive in-ear mixing at ISE 2019. The bidirectional control of mixes and their immersive pan positioning will allow monitor engineers to provide fully immersive IEM feeds as part of their normal workflow. The complete integration will be shown at Prolight + Sound later this spring.

Visitors to ISE this week can find DiGiCo on Stand 7-K200 from February 5-8.

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DiGiCo has announced the acquisition of KLANG:technologies.

The Audiotonix family of leading audio brands already includes Allen & Heath, Calrec, DiGiGrid, Solid State Logic and DiGiCo. The deal was concluded last week.

James Gordon, CEO of Audiotonix, commented: “We have had the pleasure of working with KLANG and their pioneering immersive technology for a couple of years and when the opportunity arose for them to join Audiotonix, we were keen to make it happen. We have always stressed that with our M&A we would look at each brand’s requirement and help support them with their aspirations.

“On that basis KLANG will become a key part of DiGiCo’s future, as they combine forces to improve the listening world of artists and monitor engineers alike. It is about to sound a lot more natural, with the arrival of I-IEM (Immersive In Ear Monitoring).”

Austin Freshwater, GM of DiGiCo, added: “We have been working in the background with KLANG for some months on increasing our level of integration. Over that time, it was clear the ethos of the development teams was similar, with a lot of shared common goals. Combining the control of the KLANG system into the DiGiCo worksurface will allow I-IEM and 3D personal monitoring to be a part of an engineer’s natural workflow, and that’s just the beginning for us and the KLANG team. We are keen to meet all their existing supporters and help more potential users understand the difference a KLANG system can make.”

“This is a fantastic opportunity for the team at KLANG,” concluded KLANG CEO Roman Scharrer. “Having the wealth of industry knowledge and relationships that only the DiGiCo team have at our disposal is really going to allow us to demonstrate the benefits of our technology to those we feel will benefit the most from our ground-breaking development work.

“Being part of the Audiotonix family will allow our R&D team to bring more of our ideas to life. We can already anticipate that 2019 is going to be a busy year for us and we will continue to excite our users with innovative and sustainable solutions.”

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Immersive 3D in-ear mixing technologies manufacturer KLANG has appointed United Brands of Düsseldorf, as its exclusive distributor to the German market. 

United Brands is a highly respected event technology supplier and distributor, responsible for the exclusive distribution of many high quality marques such as DiGiCo and Adamson in Germany. 

Jens ‘Bubbes’ Steffan, of United Brands, said: “I work widely in audio production and have used KLANG:fabrik products for a number of artists. Currently I’m mixing monitors for Persian artist Ebi on his world tour and we’re using KLANG solutions. 

I love the cleverness and flexibility of the products. They sound amazing, they’re reliable and also future-oriented by virtue of their FPGA technology – customers can take advantage of software updates instead of buying new product. We are delighted to add another attractive cutting-edge technology to the United Brands portfolio and placing it front and centre in the German market.”

Phil Kamp, head of sales at KLANG aded: “As we continue to grow our network, it’s important to us that our partners share our genuine passion for delivering quality products supported by excellent service. The United Brands team ticks every box for KLANG. They have a thorough understanding of the German pro-audio market-place and enjoy a strong network of partners and clients. 

"Their technical expertise is of the highest order and this, coupled with a total commitment to customer support, has made them immensely successful. I have worked side by side with members of the UB team on several tours and seminars, as well as in business and we’ve developed a deep respect and trust that will have a hugely positive impact on our cooperation.”

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Following a string of recent distribution deals with the likes of Sorinamoo in South Korea and Mods Arts in Italy, KLANG:technologies has appointed Konsbud Audio as its exclusive distributor for Poland.

Konsbud Audio’s distribution portfolio includes, among others, d&b audiotechnik, Allen & Heath, Audio-Technica, Avid, Genelec, Neutrik and Cordial.

Started in 1989, at the beginning of the free market in Poland, Konsbud Audio began with distribution of audio and music equipment.

Today, in addition to distribution of pro audio products, the company offers complete audio solutions for rental, recording and post-production studios, theatres, cultural centres, broadcast and AV companies.

Konsbud Audio also supports its clients with industry leading technical support and service.

Jarosław Kierkowski, Konsbud Audio’s commercial director commented: “We had previously seen KLANG at PL+S in Frankfurt and, at a meeting with them at ISE this year, decided this is the right time to introduce KLANG products for our Polish clients. Musicians and engineers alike want high-tech products that will improve performance quality and the comfort of their work on stage and in the studio.

“KLANG’s systems have a strong synergy with our business, directed to musicians, sound engineers, production companies and rental, and in those fields we are one of the most experienced distributors in Poland.”

Phil Kamp, KLANG:technologies’ head of sales, added: “We are very pleased to welcome Konsbud Audio as distributor in this key European region with its vibrant market for live and recorded music. They have a great line of brands and a team with the expertise to provide excellent technical support. I am looking forward to working with them and introducing KLANG:technologies to musicians and engineers throughout Poland.”

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KLANG:technologies has appointed Sorinamoo as its distributor for South Korea. Established in 2000, Sorinamoo is a leading distributor of premium pro audio and video brands.

The company represents Yamaha, Meyer, Inter-M and Harman brands, including JBL, Crown, DBX and Soundcraft. Video brands include Blackmagic Design, Avics and ETC. Additional brands complete a portfolio that makes Sorinamoo a complete AVL systems supplier.

“Sorinamoo is constantly growing and developing ahead of our customers’ needs and we are continually looking for advanced new products to introduce to our market,” explained section chief, Yonghui Kim. “We first came across KLANG:technologies on Yamaha’s YouTube channel. Andy Cooper has produced a couple of great videos introducing KLANG and explaining its set up with Yamaha CL/QL Series consoles.”

“We evaluated KLANG further and were very impressed with the ease of use and exceptional audio quality,” continued Mr Kim. “The advanced 3D technology presents a completely new paradigm for the IEM and sound field markets and we look forward to delivering this outstanding product to our customers.”

Phil Kamp, KLANG:technologies’ head of sales, added: “We are pleased to welcome Sorinamoo to our expanding network of international distributors. With a great line of compatible brands, they are technically experienced and will bring our systems to the market with great presentation and support. I am confident they will do an excellent job in representing KLANG:technologies in South Korea.”

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KLANG:technologies has appointed Mods Art as the distributor for its range of 3D personal monitor mixing systems in Italy.

Founded in 2010, Mods Art is a distributor of audio, video and lighting for the entertainment sector. The company is owned and managed by general director and chairman, Giacomo Larìa, and technical director and CEO, Luigi Lombardi.

Mods Art "strongly believes support is a defining factor in distribution and provides a comprehensive range of pre- and aftersale services", and will be adding KLANG:technologies to its portfolio of 15 brands, which includes Solid State Logic, Yamaha and Outline.

Larìa said: “I first heard about KLANG:technologies when working for Yamaha Music Europe and have followed its progress closely since then. We chose to distribute KLANG as they are innovative and establish new standards for monitoring. The products also offer the high performance and excellent build quality that are essential for the brands we offer our customers. We work with the best brands in the industry and KLANG is an ideal fit for our business.”

Phil Kamp, KLANG:technologies’ head of sales, added: “We are pleased to welcome Mods Art as our distributor for this key European market. Their dynamic approach and technical expertise are ideal for introducing products that set new benchmarks. With the perfect line-up of compatible brands, I am confident they will do an excellent job and I look forward to working closely with them.”

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