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NewsTACtv | The Accessible Channel selects Shure KSM32 for its Descriptive Video Service
The Accessible Channel, also known as TACtv, is a National English Language, descriptive video, closed-captioned, basic HD digital TV specialty service based in Don Mills, Ontario. When the time came to upgrade their audio facilities, TACtv retained the services of Applied Electronics ltd., leader in Broadcast, Post Production and Presentation Technology sales and services. Andrew Morris, Producer at TACtv, and Eugene McEleney, Technology Sales Representative at Applied Electronics, collaborated on a multitude of tests and shootouts comparing various microphone models from industry-leading brands. The Shure KSM32 was deemed the best sounding microphone for their narrative recording requirements while staying within TACtv’s budgetary framework for the project. The KSM32 is a large-diaphragm, side-address cardioid condenser microphone for highly critical studio and live sound productions. Each of the five recording booths and one interview studio at TACtv will be equipped with two KSM32, making a total of twelve microphones for the project. TACtv, a service of Accessible Media Inc., is a unique English-language service broadcasting popular TV programs from conventional and specialty TV services in open format for people who are blind, vision-impaired, deaf or hard of hearing – truly a world first! The service is available to consumers through Satellite and Cable, provided they subscribe to a basic digital package. Descriptive video is a process in which a narrator describes key visual elements of a movie, documentary, or TV show that are not apparent if one relies on the original sound track alone. That narration is then added to the sound track. About Shure Incorporated: Founded in 1925, Shure Incorporated www.shure.com is widely acknowledged as the world's leading manufacturer of microphones and audio electronics. Over the years, the Company has designed and produced a wide variety of high quality professional and consumer audio products, providing a vehicle for an individual’s personal sound. Shure’s diverse product line includes award-winning wired microphones, premier wireless microphone systems, consumer earphones and mobile phone headsets, problem-solving mixers, digital signal processors, personal monitor systems, and top-rated phonograph cartridges. Today, Shure products are used wherever high-quality audio performance is a top priority, in a wide variety of industries, markets, and settings.
Mystudio selects Shure SM27 for its U.S. Recording Studios
Self-contained studios in shopping centers offer affordable, professional-quality recording for amateurs and pros
HOLLYWOOD, CA, July 19, 2010 – When the masterminds behind MyStudio began their quest for the perfect microphone for their nationwide chain of self-contained recording studios, they knew it would be a challenge. They needed a single mic that could be mounted in the ceiling to provide professional sound quality for a variety of performers, from young novices to accomplished musicians. And because the performers can range in height from under three feet to more than six feet, the mic had to provide the same stellar sound quality regardless of the performer’s proximity. Shure’s SM27 was the answer.
“Finding the right mic was crucial,” says Shelly Yakus, former vice president of A&M Studios and current vice president of MyStudio. “We only use one mic in our studios, and we need it to function at three feet away from the average performer. You have no idea what a challenge it was finding a mic that could provide consistent sound quality across the board in a tiny space that’s basically the size of a kitchen table.” MyStudio engineers tested more than 30 mics in their studios over a period of several months. “Price was not a factor,” notes Yakus. “We tried everything from the most expensive microphone on the market to the cheapest. Hands down, the Shure SM27 gave us the best result – nothing else was even close. We’re now using it exclusively in every one of our studios.” For $20, MyStudio enables anyone to create a professional-quality audio and video recording up to five minutes long in a private studio environment. Five plug-in ports inside the studio enable musicians to record a variety of instruments, including electric guitars, bass, drums, and piano. And it’s not only for musicians – other popular categories include voiceover auditions and stand-up comedy demos. “Many of the performers who record with us are just blown away by the sound quality they’re getting from the SM27,” adds Yakus. “These are people used to being in high-end recording studios, and they’re leaving our 10-by-10-foot studio very happy with their end results. Obviously the Shure mic plays a significant role in that.” MyStudio currently has locations in Phoenix, Arizona; Hollywood, California; and Miami, Florida, with two new studios opening this summer. The company plans to continue its expansion across the country as well as internationally, with the Shure SM27 as the mic of choice in all locations.
About MyStudio ® HD Recording Studio
MyStudio is a self-contained, state-of-the-art, audio/video recording studio that offers true professional recording studio-quality audio and HD broadcast-quality video with an ease, economy and convenience never before available. MyStudio eliminates the high cost and technological and logistical barriers inherent in the creation of high-quality online video content thereby opening up a new world of opportunities for the creation of user-generated video content by amateurs and professionals alike. MyStudio can be used to create videos for music, modeling, comedy, dating, job resumes, auditions, personal messages and greetings. A recording session for up to five minutes costs only $20. Using Hollywood-style green screen technology, MyStudio users can choose from over 1,000 HD virtual backgrounds for their videos or they can upload their own custom backgrounds. In addition, MyStudio offers thousands of licensed karaoke tracks from EMI Music Publishing thereby allowing consumers to legally create music videos for public viewing on-line. Within minutes of recording, videos are automatically uploaded to the MyStudio.net website, which offers free member profile pages and video sharing in a social networking environment.
Shure KSM313 saves the day on James Taylor-Carole King Tour
FOH Engineer David Morgan Uses Shure Ribbon Mics to Capture Danny Kortchmar's Signature Guitar Sound
NILES, IL, July 15, 2010 — One of 2010’s most successful tours is the Troubadour Reunion, a pairing of acclaimed singer-songwriters James Taylor and Carole King, which has been drawing sellout crowds to arenas across the country. The tour boasts an equally legendary FOH mixer David Morgan, who was asked to create a warm, intimate sound, despite working with a large stage and an in-the-round setting.
Playing through a pair of Fender Deluxe reproduction amps with 12-inch speakers, Kortchmar had originally planned to elevate his rig on stands. But because that set-up was deemed an obstruction to the audience’s line of sight, the guitarist had to place the amps on the floor. Even with the amps rocked back, the direct speaker sound was hitting Kortchmar in the knees, not the ears. “To get the articulation he needs to hear, Danny had to change his tone, which actually thinned his sound,” Morgan explains. “To Danny, the amps sound normal, but the new setup sounded a bit harsh in the microphones. I had been using KSM27s on the amps, and that’s a good, fat-sounding microphone. But suddenly I found myself using a lot of EQ, trying to get that signature sound Danny is known for. It was problematic, especially with the lack of free time to explore other options.” The solution turned out to be savagely simple: the KSM313 ribbon microphone from Shure. “I needed a warm, fat sound with a lot of articulation, so a ribbon mic was one obvious option. I had heard good things about the KSM313, but I had never so much as talked into one, so it was kind of an unknown,” he relates. “But as soon as they came out of the box and went onstage, the sound I needed was there. I put them up in Chicago and they’ve been there ever since. ” Morgan deploys one KSM313 on each of Kortchmar’s two cabinets, using the front side of the mic and positioning them as close to the grille as possible to take advantage of their mild proximity effect. Doing that required approaching the tilted-back cabinets from above, with the XLRs pointing upward. “It worked instantly,” Morgan reports. “I’m using very little EQ, just one or two dB here and there, whereas before I had cuts of 6 dB or more at 2.5k and 7k. With the KSM313, I can now just pretty much put them up and let him play. Now Danny is happy with what he’s hearing, and the fans are getting the sound they want and expect. It’s an incredibly elegant solution to what had been an ongoing problem.” When the James Taylor-Carole King tour wraps up in late July, Morgan will be taking the KSM313s with him as he goes to Las Vegas to mix Cher beginning in September. “The KSM313 was an instant success in a difficult situation on this tour,” Morgan says. “They sound great on guitars and I can’t wait to try them in other applications, especially acoustic instruments like the saxophone and trumpet. I’m really looking forward to experimenting with them.”
Pavement Reunion Tour fueled by Shure mics
Engineer/Producer Remko Schouten Leaves the Studio, Returns to FOH for 2010 Tour NILES, IL, July 14, 2010 — If there is such a thing as classic post-punk alternative rock, it is embodied by Pavement. The band, which broke up in 1999, has gotten back together for a much-anticipated reunion tour this year, with dates spanning Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Europe, and the U.S. The reunion includes long-time FOH engineer Remko Schouten. In the years since Pavement’s breakup, Schouten has been working as an engineer-producer, working out of his own IJland Studio facility in the Netherlands. “I was with them since the summer of 1992, when they first came to Europe,” he recalls. “It was great to see them getting back together, so when they asked me to mix for them again, I put my studio work on hold.” For Pavement’s world tour, Schouten wanted to ensure consistent quality of sound across the globe, which meant acquiring new microphones. “There are plenty of great microphones out there, but I’ve always been a big fan of Shure mics. And they’ve gotten even better since we were last on the road,” he notes. “Our monitor engineer, Jeremy Lemos, recommended I try the KSM9 for (lead singer) Stephen Malkmus’ vocals, and I totally fell in love with it. It cuts through so well, has a nice shine at the top, and it’s almost impossible to get feedback. It’s almost like a studio sound in a live setting, and everything I’ve been looking for in a vocal mic since I started with the band in 1992.” For backing vocals, Schouten went with the band’s traditional SM58 ®s, with the exception of a Beta 57A ® to create more isolation for drummer Steve West. Another new microphone in Schouten’s repertoire is the KSM313 ribbon mic. Schouten uses it in combination with an SM57 to mic Spiral Stairs rig, which consists of a Fender Showman played through a closed-back Marshall cabinet. “Spiral does all the rhythm parts and he’s got that background growl, and this combination gives him the extra texture he needs,” says Schouten. “I especially like the thickness of the KSM313. It has that classic ribbon response – nice and thick, with a clear, detailed high end that always shines through. I can imagine using it in a bunch of applications, especially in the studio.” Two more SM57s handle the audio for Stephen Malkmus’ lead guitar. Using two mics allows Schouten to produce Pavement’s patented guitar tone. “Stephen is a great guitarist, and plays through an Orange amp and closed Marshall slanted cabinet with a lot of punch and distortion,” he shares. “To emphasize that, on some of the heavy bits and choruses, I do what I call my phase trick. I mic two speakers in the cabinet and pan them left and right. I switch one of the channels out of phase as an effect during choruses or heavy passes, which really gives it some depth. It gives you this warped feeling out in the audience, and gives me another dimension without using any weird DSP effects.” Steve West’s drums are another bastion of Shure mics. “I fell in love with the KSM137. It really cuts through in the 10K area, and the bottom end is nice and thick, like an SM57. Perfect for snare top.” Schouten augments that with an SM57 on snare bottom. Toms are miked with the Beta 98 miniature clip-on mic, and the kick drum is handled by a combination of Beta 52 ®A and Beta 91. Twin KSM44 studio condensers capture the overheads, while a second KSM137 handles the hi-hat. Overall, Remko Schouten pleased with the drum sound he has achieved. “The combination of mics on the kick lets me get whatever tone I need, and the Beta 98 is beautiful on toms,” he says. “It’s got a narrow pattern, so how you aim it really changes the tone. I place them directly over the rim, about an inch above, aiming at the middle of the skin, and it sounds amazing.” The final piece of the puzzle is Mark Ibold’s bass rig. For that, Schouten relies on a DI box in combination with a Beta 52A.”It gives me a full, round bottom tone, which is important, because Mark does not like a lot of high end in his sound. I use the DI mainly for the mid tones, to cut it through the mix, and the Beta 52A for that big bottom end. It’s a great combination.” Remko Schouten said he has been enjoying the tour.. “These new Shure mics sound fantastic and are making my life a lot easier,” he states. “I hardly have to touch the EQ on my Midas H3000 to produce a very fat, thick, and dense but clear mix—with plenty of character!” Fan reaction to the Pavement reunion has been extremely positive. “It’s pretty amazing,” notes Schouten. “The band sounds fantastic and the fans are loving it. For my part, it’s great to get back out on the road after eight years and a pleasure to mix these guys again. It’s been a great experience.” The Pavement tour will continue into early October, with a mix of major festival and headlining dates across the U.S. and Europe.
Shure Takes Center Stage At 2010 CMA Music Festival, CMT Music Awards
NILES, IL, June 28, 2010 – Earlier this month, thousands made their way to Nashville for country music’s largest party, the Country Music Association (CMA) Music Festival, and Shure gear could be found on virtually every stage. On Wednesday, June 9, country music fans poured into the Bridgestone Arena to watch the CMT Video Music Awards, which featured an opening performance by the event’s host, Kid Rock, using a chrome UR2/SM58 wireless microphone. Joining him for the opening performance were Martina McBride and Hank Williams Jr., who also used UR2/SM58 microphones, as well as Trace Adkins, Kellie Pickler, Randy Houser, Jamey Johnson, and Zac Brown—all using wireless SM58® microphones. According to Tom Davis, who served as the audio producer for the show, “ We received many positive comments this year, saying that this was one of the best sounding CMT Awards in years, both in the house and the live broadcast,” added Davis. “Putting a live broadcast on the air with 11 live acts and multiple presenters and hosts is always a challenge. Knowing that we can always rely on Shure systems working first time every time is a great comfort.” Shure endorser Brad Paisley sang “American Saturday Night” through UR2/SM58 wireless while another Shure endorser, LeAnn Rimes, chose a pair of Super 55 wired microphones for an up tempo version of John Anderson’s “Swingin.” “For her performance, LeAnn requested the two Super 55s…one on a stand and one to be flown in from the ceiling,” said Shamus Bacon, front of house engineer for Rimes. “The ’ceiling’ in the Bridgestone Arena, being about 120 feet, presented a small hurdle for the crew. It wound up requiring one 150-foot section of cable, three 100-feet sections of cable, and then another 125-foot snake to the truck…a total of a 575-foot cable run on a Super 55. The end result was the ‘Sky Mic’ versus the ‘Stand Mic.’ The Sky Mic lost about three db of level and maybe a bit of low-mid, which the guys in the truck added back in and…Eureka! The Super 55s sounded great.” Several other artists who performed used Shure wireless systems with a variety of different microphones in addition to the SM58®, including KSM9 and Beta 58® handheld transmitters. The house band for the show performed using wired SM58s on all vocals except for newcomer Easton Corbin, who opted for his own wired KSM9. Rounding out the full complement of Shure gear, a standard assortment of Shure drum microphones were employed for most of the drum kits, including the Beta 52 on many of the kick drums and the Beta 98s on almost all of the toms.
Shure Joins Coordinated RF Effort at Cowboys Stadium
ARLINGTON, TX, June 1, 2010 – Rising from the Texas landscape as grand as sunrise over the tall grass prairie, Cowboys Stadium is the largest domed stadium in the world. Home of the National Football League’s Dallas Cowboys, the facility is outfitted with a communications infrastructure employing wireless systems supporting everything from the simple exchange of information behind-the-scenes to entertainment for the 80,000 fans that fill the stands on game days. Playing a central role within a complex and rigidly-controlled RF blueprint, 16 channels of Shure UHF-R® wireless span the stadium all the way from the field through the club levels and up to the main systems control room. Joining the single and dual-channel UHF-R systems dedicated to the task, Shure PSM® 700 systems bring four channels of personal monitoring capabilities to the main bowl system. Kevin Day, a senior consultant working from the Dallas offices of WJHW, provided a comprehensive audio spec, fulfilling the needs of the stadium. The implementation of the design was managed by Pro Media/UltraSound. With lots of experience with projects of this scale, the Hercules, California-based firm has posted credits on its resume over the course of the last decade that include the modernization of the bowl system at Candlestick Park, the installation of sound systems at Dallas’ American Airlines Arena, and high-profile sonic overhauls of the Honda Center in Anaheim and Kyle Stadium on the campus of Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas. “Any pro sports arena is an extremely hostile environment when it comes to wireless RF spectrum,” notes Demetrius Palavos, Pro Media/UltraSound’s senior sales and design engineer. “What made this project exceptionally demanding was its proximity to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, which is a maximum of about eight miles away. A lot of the airport’s communication towers are even closer.” To meet the challenge, WJHW chose Shure UHF-R wireless based on the technology’s track record for providing reliability and performance. On the club levels, single channel UR124S/Beta 87A combo systems leave a handheld UR2 receiver and UR1 bodypack transmitter at the disposal of users. Kept at hand for use with the bodypacks, Shure’s cardioid WL185 lavalier microphones also see duty on each of the club levels. Elsewhere in the stadium where wireless needs are greater (such as in the control room system used to capture on-field entertainment and the singing of the national anthem), dual-channel UR124D/Beta 87A combo systems broaden the aural palette using the same UR2-UR1-WL 185 approach. Built using wireless circuitry as robust as that included in the UHF-R systems, PSM 700 in-ear monitoring is used exclusively in the on-field entertainment system. An active UA845-SWB antenna combiner splits a pair of UA870 paddle antennas for use across the channels in the on-field system. “The distance is a good 250 feet from the 50-yard line up to control booth-mounted receivers,” Palavos relates. “We initially talked about using helical antennas for this part of the project, but the stadium’s RF coordinator felt the Shure receivers and transmitters were already well-equipped for the job, so they wouldn’t be necessary. As it turned out, he couldn’t have been more correct.” Keller McCrary has occupied the post as the stadium’s RF overlord since the earliest phases of the facility’s construction. Charged with giving painstaking coordination to every RF signal required for any event, McCrary brings a level of skill and authority to his ongoing assignment that Palavos credits as being one of the underlying factors in the rock-solid wireless performance found on the property. “The other component responsible for our success is found in the Shure gear itself,” Palavos adds. “The electronics in the front-end of these systems does a great job of rejecting any off-band interference that may try to step on us. Having Keller lay down the law on who is going to occupy what frequency is vital. But some systems in use here may transmit extremely hot, or not be engineered that well. In the latter cases, a system may indicate that it’s tuned to a specific frequency, but in reality may be off-center to that frequency. The Shure gear holds its own in the face of this kind of competition and makes any potentially harmful episodes a non-issue.” Pro Media/UltraSound tuned the Shure wireless systems with the aid of Shure’s Wireless Workbench® software for operation stadium-wide on the H4 bandwidths (518 – 578 MHz). By his own account, Palavos, along with Pro Media colleagues Richard Bratcher and Ted Leamy, “spent quite a bit of time walking around looking for dropouts. Richard exercised a phenomenal amount of patience in getting the club levels just right. All of our efforts were worth it in the end, as operation today is painless. If you go to where Keller tells you to tune and turn on the mic—wham! It works every time. We’ve never had to make any frantic changes, game-day mischief, or need to re-tune. Everything just works flawlessly.”
Shure Microphones Give Voice to Project RYTMO 
"Reaching Youth Through Music Opportunities" Teaches Young Performers With Shure Gear
ANAHEIM, CA,June 7, 2010 – For seven years, the non-profit Project RYTMO (Reaching Youth Through Music Opportunities), has been keeping kids in Anaheim, California off the streets and engaged in music and learning. The free after-school program, funded in part by the state and federal governments, provides a creative, positive, and professional environment for underserved youth who demonstrate musical, technical, and/or business potential in the arts. Shure is proud to play a role in Project RYTMO’s mission of educating, empowering, and equipping young people through music, music technology, and artistic development. Since 2003, the program has served more than 350 at-risk youth, many of whom have been homeless or have had experience in the juvenile justice system. “As a Company, we take pride in giving back to the community,” says Shure President and CEO Sandy LaMantia. “These kids have shown great promise, and we couldn’t be more pleased to lend our support to this program, which is helping them fulfill their artistic and professional potential.” Project RYTMO offers nine-week sessions for young people between the ages of 14 and 22, with classes including songwriting, digital recording, music history, and live audio production. Students are also taught life skills such as goal setting, project planning, leadership, and professionalism. Most importantly, says Project RYTMO founder and executive director Joey Arreguin, the program gives young people in at-risk environments a healthy, positive outlet for their energy and creativity. “Music is the tool we use to engage our young people during those critical hours of the day when they wouldn’t otherwise have something to do,” Arreguin explains. “We give them a positive, creative outlet where they can express themselves.” One of the program’s big challenges is finding professional-quality gear for the students to use in class. When Project RYTMO first began, says Arreguin, there was a lack of quality in the students’ performances and recording. Without professional audio gear, the students were getting muffled and distorted results. Shure was one of several manufacturers that Arreguin’s team reached out to for assistance , and while it might not seem like much…a few SM58® microphones have gone a long way toward improving the quality of the kids’ projects. “The Shure products are vital to the success of our program,” says Arreguin. “Our students are hungry to learn how to operate professional gear. We’re using the Shure mics for student performances and recording in the studio, and we’re consistently impressed with the sonic quality and clarity. Shure microphones epitomize the high quality that we want RYTMO students to strive for in class and in life.” Many Project RYTMO graduates have gone on to start their own record labels, video and audio companies, perform live shows, or produce music for themselves or other artists. Arreguin is now looking to expand Project RYTMO into other parts of California and has just entered into a partnership with the Berklee School of Music in Boston that will enable eligible young people to participate in online learning and even apply for music scholarships. For more information on Project RYTMO, visit www.rytmo.org.
Shure helps play World's Highest Rock Gig
Performance Atop Mount Kilimanjaro Summit Raises Awareness for Children’s Charity
LONDON, UK,May 24, 2010 – Indie-Rock band Sound Driver is midway through a very unusual world tour. The musicians are visiting some of the world's most iconic venues as a way of raising awareness for children’s charity The Smile Train. To date they've played at the Sydney Harbour Bridge and even broke a World Record on Mount Kilimanjaro. Upcoming stops on the “Chasing Rainbows” tour include The Great Wall Of China, Niagara Falls, and Dubai's Burj al Arabhotel.
Successfully negotiating such a demanding schedule requires gear that's compact and lightweight for easy portability, but also solid and reliable enough to deliver quality sound, no matter what the conditions throw at you. So when it came to wireless in-ear personal monitoring, wireless microphones, and all of the tour's PA needs, tour manager David Spillane knew that he needed gear with a track record for both quality and reliability. Shure has been one of the main sponsors of the Chasing Rainbows Tour, providing all five band members with wireless in-ear personal monitoring (PSM600 receivers and transmitters) systems to ensure superb sound quality, no matter what the venue. The wireless systems have proven to be crucial to the band’s performances. Shure also provided a UHF-R® wireless system for lead singer Chad Marriott - something he finds essential due to its superb sound quality. For reproducing the sound, QSC K8 active loudspeakers have been a smashing success. The rugged loudspeakers were compact and light enough for the band to carry up Mount Kilimanjaro, yet powerful enough to deliver full, crisp sound courtesy of the 1000W Class D amplifiers that power the QSC K8's dual drivers. "Shure is a globally recognized brand,” noted Spillane. “Along with the global nature of The Chasing Rainbows Tour, this makes them a perfect brand partner. Shure products always perform at the level we expect - and even more so with the extra demands of this tour."
"We're delighted to have been able to help the band with this incredible achievement," said Peter James, Managing Director of Shure Distribution UK. "It's challenging enough to just climb Kilimanjaro, but gigging when you reach the summit takes an extra special effort and massive determination. Shure and QSC products are tested to extremes so we were happy to provide the band with microphones, PA, and monitoring gear that were up to the task."
About Shure Incorporated Founded in 1925, Shure Incorporated (www.shure.com) is widely acknowledged as the world's leading manufacturer of microphones and audio electronics. Over the years, the Company has designed and produced many high-quality professional and consumer audio products that have become legendary for performance, reliability, and value. Shure’s diverse product line includes world-class wired microphones, wireless microphones and in-ear personal monitor systems, headphones for performers, presenters and recordists, award-winning earphones and headsets for use with MP3 players and smart phones, and top-rated phonograph cartridges for professional DJs. Today, Shure products are the first choice whenever audio performance is a top priority. Shure Incorporated corporate headquarters is located in Niles, Illinois, in the United States. The Company has additional manufacturing facilities and regional sales offices in China, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Mexico, The United Kingdom, and the United States. About the tour:
Over the last ten years The Smile Train has provided more than 500,000 free surgeries for children and has helped in 77 of the world's poorest countries. With the help of the resources and reach of the global travel industry and the generosity of the music industry, Sound Driver is hoping to bring its music to an international audience and raise awareness and more funds to help The Smile Train carry on changing the world one smile at a time. The Chasing Rainbows Tour was launched in October 2009 and has included stops at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes, the Sydney Opera House, the Great Wall of China, and the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.
For more information:
PG Recording Mics - Positive Reviews in Abundance Dear Channel Partners, "The Shure PG27, X2u, and PG42USB are all great products that excel in their design, quality, and performance. I am awarding these fine products from Shure an outstanding rating of 9 out of 10 in our MyMac.com Rating System." - Mark Rudd, MyMac Magazine Share these positive testimonials and award citations with your customers, and help make PG Recording mics the first choice for entry level recordists.
Neutrik's solution for the dramatic cutback of RF
The restrictions of utilizable and available radio frequencies for audio-data transmission require new technological concepts. Neutrik, the worldwide leading supplier of professional entertainment connector products has met this challenge. 35 years after the foundation of the company, Neutrik sets another milestone by being both a component and solution oriented system supplier. With DIWA (digital wireless audio) Neutrik has developed a technology which is capable of fulfilling the future demands in an innovative way. By choosing the 5 gigahertz frequency band all problems with the radio frequency shortages are solved. With DIWA a future-proof system can be built without complex approval processes and an extensive search for frequencies.
XIRIUM is available beginning fall 2010. Click Here to download the Xirium Full Colour Brochure
Micheal Renaud Chosen as Grand Prize Winner for Shure Canada Sing to Win Contest on Facebook
MONTREAL, QC - After many months of speculation and after viewing hundreds of talented Canadian singers, Shure is proud to announce that it has chosen Mike Renaud from Eastern Passage, Nova Scotia to be the GRAND PRIZE WINNER of the SING to WIN Contest. Mike wins a brand new Shure PG42USB microphone with PowerTracks recording software. “I greatly appreciate being chosen as the Grand Prize winner, especially with all the talented people that submitted videos. I’m totally looking forward to using the Mic and recording software”, said Mike upon hearing the news. John Balash, Marketing Director for Shure Canada, adds, “As Canada’s premier microphone brand, we felt it was our responsibility to create a platform that could identify, connect and promote Canada’s up-and-coming singing talents with a fun and interactive contest. Michael’s soulful vocals were appreciated by the judging panel from the start, and his outstanding renditions unquestionably earned him the Grand Prize.” Mike Renaud is a 25yr old musician from Eastern Passage, Nova Scotia. He has been playing since the age of 17, self-taught on guitar and piano as well as vocals. Mike is currently the lead singer for the band LevyStep ( www.myspace.com/levystep), based out of Halifax. Over the past year he has been writing original material which will be on an EP album that should be ready for release by mid-summer 2010. “My experience as a musician thus far has been nothing short of amazing,” says Mike, “I look forward to being able to create music that is personal, meaningful and unique. Hopefully in years to come our music will be played on the radio and will have the opportunity to tour and showcase what it is that we do. “
Balash adds, “We were so overwhelmed with the positive response the contest generated, with so many talented singers across Canada, that we are proud to announce that we will be extending the contest with new themes and prizes. Stay tuned to the SING to WIN Facebook page for upcoming news.”
For more information on Mike Renaud and his band LevyStep: For more information on the Shure Canada SING to WIN Contest, please contact: John Balash Marketing Director SF Marketing
Gord Bamford Joins Shure Family Canadian Country Recording Artist partners with Shure
MONTREAL, QC , 24/02/2010 – SF Marketing is very excited to announce the addition of country recording star, Gord Bamford to Shure’s distinguished Canadian artist roster. Gord Bamford lives, eats and breathes country music. As many kids dream at a young age Gord considered pursuing a career in professional sports, but he quickly realized that music was his true calling. Luisa Cabrita, Shure Product Manager at SF Marketing states:
Gord released his first album, “God’s Green Earth” in 2000, and in 2004 with the help of Tim Taylor, Steve Fox and Byron Hill, released his second album entitled, “Life is Good”. The album included the top 20 singles "Heroes," "My Heart's a Genius," "All About Her," "Life Is Good" and "I Would for You”. Gord has shared the stage with many great artists such as Tim McGraw, Kenny Rogers, Don Williams and the legendary George Strait. In both 2005 and 2006, he was nominated at the Canadian Country Music Awards (CCMA) for Independent Male Vocalist of the Year, Independent Song of the Year, and the Chevy Trucks Rising Star Award. His third album, “Honkytonks and Heartaches” was released in 2007 and included Gord’s first top ten single on the Billboard charts, “Blame it on that Red Dress”. This album solidified his position on the Billboard charts with 4 Top Ten singles and 6 Top 15 singles and earned him a 2008 Juno nomination for Country Recording of the Year. He also earned the 2008 CCMA for Top New Male Talent, Record Producer of the Year (with Byron Hill), and Video of the Year for “Blame It on That Red Dress”. Gord is currently preparing the release of his fourth studio album entitled “Day Job” which is due out in April 2010. Gord is embarking on a cross-country tour promoting “Day Job” , with opening dates for Martina McBride scheduled for the Maritimes. Look for Gord in a Canadian city near you through spring and summer 2010. For more info on tour dates please go to www.gordbamford.com Once the product launches, Gord will be using the newest Shure Personal Monitor System, the PSM®900. He will also be using the following Shure equipment:
Lead Vocals – UR2/KSM9 handheld transmitter Guitar – UR1M wireless bodypack Dobro Guitar – BETA98H/C Kick – BETA52A, BETA91 Snare – SM57-LC Toms – BETA98D/S Hi-Hat – SM81-LC Overheads – SM81-LC
Alexisonfire Heating Things up with Shure Ontario breakthrough band inks deal with Shure
MONTREAL, QC , 16/02/2010 – SF Marketing is very excited to announce the addition of Alexisonfire to Shure’s illustrious family of artists. Alexisonfire rose up out St. Catharines, ON in late 2001 and defiantly made inroads into the mainstream market with their first full-length release in 2002, receiving Gold Certification by the CRIA (sales upwards of 50,000) . Their sophomore album WATCH OUT! debuted at #6 on the Top 200 Soundscan Chart, certified Platinum (sales upwards of 100,000) and helped earn them “New Group of the Year”, at the 2005 JUNO awards (Canada’s Grammies). In 2008, 3 rd album CRISIS debuted at #1 on the Top 200 Soundscan chart, garnered three 2007 JUNO award nominations, won an MMVA (MuchMusic Video Award) and ceritifed Platinum the same year. Their current album OLD CROWS / YOUNG CARDINALS debuted at #2 in Canada on the Top 200 Soundscan Chart and has already reached Gold certification. The album has met with immense international success where it was released through Dine Alone in Canada, Australia, South Africa, and South East Asia, Vagrant in the US and RoadRunner in the rest of the world. Alexisonfire lead a great wave of indie/rock bands that have revolutionized Canadian music. SF Marketing and Shure are thrilled to have the opportunity to work with such great talent. Shure Product Manager Luisa Cabrita expressed her excitement about the band:
The band has recently been nominated for 4 Canadian Independent Music Awards including the nomination for Favorite Album of the Year for Old Crows/Young Cardinals and Favorite Live Artist. The band will be touring Australia, Canada and the US throughout spring 2010. Alexisonfire will be using the following gear from Shure while on tour: Vocals - SM58 Kick - BETA91, BETA52A Snare - SM57 Hi-Hat - SM91-LC Overheads - KSM32/CG Guitar Amps - KSM313, SM57, SM7B
Great Big Sea Take a Dip with Shure Newfoundland and Labrador band partners with Shure
MONTREAL, QC , 16/02/2010 – SF Marketing is thrilled to announce that Great Big Sea and Shure have partnered to add GBS to the Shure’s roster of prestigious endorsers. Renowned for their folk-rock style, Great Big Sea has managed to win the hearts of countless Canadians by drawing inspiration from the rich cultural heritage of Newfoundland and Labrador. Having roots in Irish, English and French tradition, both the island and Great Big Sea have been graced with a true myriad of artistically rich influences to create music which soothes the soul and ignites emotions. Their track record is most impressive and through the release of their various albums, they have managed to reach Gold rankings on five albums, platinum on four records and have had an album, Sea of No Cares, reach the first spot on the Canadian Charts position in 2002. They have also had three other albums reach the top five Canadian Charts position. According to Luisa Cabrita, Product Manager for Shure, “It’s not everyday you get the chance to work with a band like GBS. They can only elevate the standing of the brand and it is a true honor to have such talent using our gear!” GBS have embarked on their current US Tour with the following Shure gear: Vocals – BETA58A Kick – SM91, BETA52A Snare – SM57, SM81 Hi-Hat – SM81 Toms – BETA98D/S Overheads – KSM37/SL Accordian – BETA98D/S Bodhrán – BETA98D/S The band will also be outfitted with Shure’s upcoming PSM900 In-Ear Monitor systems once the product is released later this spring.
The Who Rock Super Bowl XLIV with Shure Rock Legends Rely on Shure Microphones and New PSM® 900 Personal Monitor Systems for Classic Halftime Show Performance
MIAMI, FL,February 9, 2010 — A big part of the Super Bowl telecast is the halftime show, which has become a major production in its own right, with the biggest names in music performing their hits live on a gigantic yet temporary stage. “It’s really an incredible production,” says Simon Higgs, monitor engineer for The Who. “I mean, what’s really amazing is the stage set-up, which has to be put in place and assembled in minutes. And, everything working on the first go – sound, lights, and pyro. That’s quite a show in itself!” The Who are, quite simply, rock legends. Among the iconic images in rock history are lead singer Roger Daltrey swinging his Shure SM58® like a lariat, and guitarist Pete Townshend’s dramatic windmill guitar riffs. “The Who have worked with Shure microphones for over 40 years,” notes Bob Pridden, the band’s audio consultant/producer. “Getting ready for the Super Bowl, one thing I knew I could count on was that Shure wouldn’t let me down on Sunday night.” In addition to a full stage of Shure microphones, The Who used four channels of the new PSM 900 personal monitor system in their performance. Lead singer Roger Daltrey, guitarist Simon Townshend, and drummer Zak Starkey, along with monitor engineer Simon Higgs, used the PSM 900. “We had the chance to try PSM 900 prototypes on the (autumn 2009) Daltrey tour,” notes Higgs. “Roger and I both think they sound incredible, and they have been absolutely flawless for us. So we were keen to use them for the Super Bowl.” Longtime Super Bowl audio vendor ATK Audiotek was again present to support the audio mission, with wireless guru James Stoffo as Entertainment RF Engineer and Thomas Pesa to handle monitor system design. “Normally, I would be quite hesitant to use any new product at an event like the Super Bowl,” says Pesa. “But the band really wanted to use them, so we gave it a try in rehearsals and found it to be rock solid. And since we had on-site technical support from Shure and James Stoffo, we went with the band’s request. And I’m happy to say everything went off without a hitch.” Out of more than 1,000 total wireless frequencies being coordinated by the NFL, James Stoffo was responsible for around 100 intercom, microphone, and in-ear channels being used by the musical acts and their support. “This was my first time using the PSM 900 at a major event, and it performed flawlessly,” he notes. “I’d be happy to see this system on any of my shows as the go-to in-ear system.” Monitor engineer Higgs is a big fan of CueMode, a patent-pending feature in the PSM 900’s compact P9R bodypack receiver. “Basically, CueMode lets me hear any monitor mix with a button-push. It saves me so much time and trouble, and really shows this system was designed for monitor engineers.” Using CueMode, up to 20 mixes can be directly accessed via the up/down buttons on the receiver. The PSM 900 system also features Shure In-Ear Monitor technologies such as variable RF output, digital stereo decoding, Scan and Sync, automatic RF Gain Control, dedicated RF Mute, MixMode capability, and Audio Reference Companding. One burning question often asked after events like the Super Bowl is, “How live was that performance?” The Who’s audio consultant, Bob Pridden, explains. “There is an amazing amount of planning that goes into this. In fact, we were asked to record the medley live in the studio by January 1, so they could plan the timing on the pyro and other production elements. I can assure you that every instrument and microphone on stage was live. But the producers have backing tracks in place from our rehearsals last week, because you can’t risk losing a vocal. So the answer is, The Who played their Super Bowl show 100 percent live.” Reflecting on the experience the day after Super Bowl XLIV, monitor engineer Higgs says, “Basically, it was a rock solid performance with great sound…just what you would expect from The Who, and what The Who always expect – and get – from Shure.”
Shure Extends Rebate for 700 Mhz Wireless Systems in Canada until June 30, 2010 NILES, IL, January 18, 2010 — Shure Incorporated today announced that the company is extending its Canadian rebate program of up to $1,200 for the trade-in of 700 MHz frequency band (698-806 MHz) wireless systems, regardless of who manufactured it, until June 30 th, 2010. Based on the US Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) order that the operation of wireless microphones, in-ear monitors, and related equipment in the 700 MHz band will not be permitted after June 12, 2010, Shure Incorporated reiterated its commitment to assist wireless system users with the transition. “We’re pleased that the FCC has issued a firm transition date for 700 MHz wireless equipment,” said Mark Brunner, Senior Director Global Brand Management. “In anticipation of the post-DTV transition UHF landscape, Shure has been moving its product lines away from the 700 MHz band for the better part of a decade, and in recent years we have increased our information outreach to the user community, including very attractive trade-in rebate programs. Complying with this firm date will still be challenging for some users, but we remain committed to making the transition as easy as possible for them under the circumstances. It’s time for one final push to prevent interference with the new users of the spectrum.” To comply with FCC regulations, users of wireless systems operating in the 700 MHz band must retire those products before June 12, 2010. Continued operation may cause interference to Public Safety communications or other licensed services. Shure has not sold equipment operating in the 700 MHz band since 2007, although many of these units remain in service in theaters, schools, meeting facilities, and houses of worship. More information about the Shure components that operate in the 700 MHz band can be found at www.shure.com/700 Customers may submit rebate forms to SF Marketing Inc. – Shure’s Canadian distributor, with the purchase of any UHF-R®, ULX®, MX690/SLX4L, PSM®700 (H3, L2 bands), or PGX wireless system. To help customers with the transition and to better understand the changes to the RF frequency regulations, SF Marketing has a team of experts who are available to answer questions and to provide solutions to technical challenges associated with the new legislation. For a complete summary of the terms and conditions of this rebate program, to learn which products are eligible for the rebate program, and to obtain a rebate form, visit http://shurecanada.com/ProAudio/EN/index.html and click on the “Trade-in & Trade-up” banner in the center of the page. Any questions regarding the rebate program in Canada can be directed to SF Marketing Inc. at 514-780-2070. Additional details relating to the FCC’s order and its implications for wireless systems users can be found at www.fcc.gov.
About Shure Incorporated Founded in 1925, Shure Incorporated (www.shure.com) is widely acknowledged as the world's leading manufacturer of microphones and audio electronics. Over the years, the Company has designed and produced many high-quality professional and consumer audio products that have become legendary for performance, reliability, and value. Shure’s diverse product line includes world-class wired microphones and wireless microphone systems for performers and presenters, award-winning earphones and headsets for MP3 players and smartphones, and top-rated phonograph cartridges for professional DJs. Today, Shure products are the first choice whenever audio performance is a top priority. Shure Incorporated corporate headquarters is located in Niles, Illinois, in the United States. The Company has additional manufacturing facilities and regional sales offices in China, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Mexico, The United Kingdom, and the United States.
Shure Ribbon Mics Chosen for Dave Grusin Recording Engineer Eric Schilling Opts For KSM313 and KSM353 Ribbons NILES IL,January 14, 2010 — When recording engineer Eric Schilling was asked to work on a live recording for artist Dave Grusin, he saw it as an opportunity to try Shure’s new KSM353 and KSM313 ribbon microphones in several critical instrument applications. “It was a live concert recording for a CD release on Concord Records,” Schilling explains. “The first half was a full orchestra, which was followed by a big band set. It was a pretty complex show.” Dave Grusin’s career as a composer, arranger, and pianist has included a lot of soundtrack work, including eight Oscar®-nominated scores and original tracks. He also has composed the theme songs for various TV shows, including Good Times , Maude , and St. Elsewhere . A co-founder of famed jazz label GRP Records, Grusin has also won seven GRAMMY® Awards among his many jazz recordings. The live concert recording was a career retrospective, paying homage to Grusin’s body of work. The orchestral set featured soundtrack music from movies like Tootsie and On Golden Pond , while the big band set included Grusin arrangements of songs from West Side Story , George Gershwin, and Henry Mancini. The show took place in Miami’s Arsht Center, a venue designed for classical acoustic music and known for its great sound. “It’s a beautiful venue,” says Schilling. “The stage is big – very broad and with a lot of depth to it, which makes it a great place to record. The producer was Phil Ramone, and we did a lot of planning together on how we were going to mic the show. It was a great opportunity to try the new Shure ribbon microphones.” The Shure ribbon mics, models KSM353 and KSM313, are distinguished by their use of a patented material, Roswellite, for the ribbon. Roswellite is extremely strong, with low mass, high conductivity, and shape memory, enabling the mics to handle significantly higher levels and more challenging conditions in terms of wind blast, plosives, and phantom power, while retaining the characteristic warmth associated with ribbon microphones. “I’ve always loved the sound of a good ribbon mic on trombones, and that’s where we put the KSM353,” notes Schilling. “I used one of them for the top two trombones. We used sort of a neat trick that Phil Ramone suggested, which was to turn it sideways and put it right between the players, which is an excellent way to take advantage of its figure-8 pattern. It was great because it eliminated drum bleed, which could have been a problem because this was a big open stage with no physical separation between sections.” A second KSM353 was used for the bass trombone in a more conventional deployment. Schilling also found a spot for the smaller KSM313 during the big band set. “That mic is fantastic on guitar cabinets,” he notes. “It has some interesting qualities. Where the KSM353 behaves exactly the same between the front and back sides, if you look at the polars, the KSM313 is a little brighter on the back side of the capsule. For this show, I thought the amp was a little bit dark in character, so I just turned the mic around and used the back side. So that turns out to be a useful tool for an engineer.” With just a few weeks experience, Schilling is still in the process of putting his Shure ribbon mics through their paces. “I’ve experimented a lot with these two mics, trying them in a lot of different places, and they both have a really nice warmth, with none of the nasal quality I’ve found in some other ribbons. And they can both handle high SPL with no problem. In fact, I’ll be trying them in a couple positions where you normally wouldn’t use a ribbon, like on drums and percussion, just to see what they can do.” Asked about his overall reaction to the KSM353 and KSM313, Eric Schilling’s summary was succinct and positive. “They’re really versatile. In fact, so far I haven’t found any application where they don’t shine,” he enthuses. “I couldn’t have been more pleased with the way the Shure ribbon mics performed in the Dave Grusin live recording. Frankly, if I had more of them available, I would have used them.” About Shure Incorporated Founded in 1925, Shure Incorporated (www.shure.com) is widely acknowledged as the world's leading manufacturer of microphones and audio electronics. Over the years, the Company has designed and produced many high-quality professional and consumer audio products that have become legendary for performance, reliability, and value. Shure’s diverse product line includes world-class wired microphones and wireless microphone systems for performers and presenters, award-winning earphones and headsets for MP3 players and smartphones, and top-rated phonograph cartridges for professional DJs. Today, Shure products are the first choice whenever audio performance is a top priority. Shure Incorporated corporate headquarters is located in Niles, Illinois, in the United States. The Company has additional manufacturing facilities and regional sales offices in China, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Mexico, The United Kingdom, and the United States. |
“The music on this tour is incredible,” Morgan states, “But it’s been very challenging from an engineering perspective. James and Carole are playing afternoon soundcheck shows for charity, so there’s literally no time for experimenting when audio problems arise.” That was exactly the case in Morgan’s attempts to capture the guitar sound of Taylor’s venerable guitarist Danny Kortchmar. 
For Bob Nastanovich’s percussion setup, the miking consists of Beta 98s on the floor tom and snare, with a single KSM137 overhead to capture everything else. His vocals are sung through an SM58. 
ss system, Neutrik is ahead of its time. XIRIUM combines digital receiving and sending lines in one system and provides the highest sound quality, unique reliability and ease of handling. 
Recently, “Honkytonks and Heartaches” was named Album of the Decade by Country Music News. 
All microphones on The Who’s stage were Shure hardwired. Ranging from Roger Daltrey’s classic SM58®, wrapped in trademark white gaffer tape for strain relief, to new models like the KSM313 ribbon mic and KSM44 studio condenser on Pete and Simon Townshend’s guitars and Pino Palladino’s bass. Zak Starkey’s drum kit used the SM91A boundary mic in kick drum, Beta 98s on toms, Beta 56®A on snare, KSM137 on hi-hat, and a combination of KSM32s and KSM44s overhead. Backing vocals are by Pete Townshend, Simon Townshend, and John “Rabbit” Bundrick; all sung through Beta 58A® microphones.
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