Vote for Clear-Com's HelixNet Partyline!

Vote for Clear-Com's HelixNet Partyline to win the 2014 Sound & Video Contractor Most Innovative Product Award!

Vote here: 
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/ZMLT9D9

 

Here's why we think HelixNet Partyline should win:

HelixNet® Partyline is a revolutionary digital network partyline system that delivers an unprecedented level of performance. The product family comprises the main station and user devices—including the digital beltpack—new remote station and new speaker station with S-mount. With the addition of these two new devices, users have greater flexibility to build an intercom infrastructure that fits their workflow. HelixNet also offers interface and linking modules to network main stations and connect it to two-wire and four-wire audio systems.   

HelixNet enhances collaboration by providing extended connectivity, many system users, and high channel density. Up to three HelixNet main stations can be networked for wide collaboration. Designed with award-winning I.V. Core™ technology, the systems can be intelligently linked over LAN infrastructure using an Ethernet module. This creates a decentralized, distributed intercom architecture. A fiber module is available as well to connect systems over long distances.

In addition, main stations can be networked to allow more users. When three systems are connected, up to 60 HelixNet devices can be used. It also integrates with analog partyline systems, matrix intercoms and other audio devices via two-wire and four-wire interface modules, extending communication even further.

Three linked main stations provide 12 shared intercom channels. Channels can be customized to make information more manageable. Each beltpack can be assigned any two of the 12 channels at once. From the main station, remote station, and speaker station, users can select any four of the shared channels. Channels can be changed instantly from the user device or main station without added cable runs.

Furthermore, HelixNet reduces cables, time, and labor spent on setup and configuration, enabling huge cost-savings. Each user device receives shared audio channels, program audio feeds, and power over a single shielded twisted-pair cable. Moreover, since microphone cables and CAT5 are ubiquitous, they are more economical and straightforward to use. HelixNet can also leverage an existing cable infrastructure.

System configuration, maintenance, and operation are as easy as setup. User devices can be powered in multipe ways: via Powerline modem, Power-over-Ethernet (PoE), or a universal AC wall adapter. After the system is powered, hardware auto-discovery permits connected HelixNet devices to be immediately recognized by the main station for rapid startup. The waterfall menu structure supports quick access to setting for effortless configuration. Channels are distinguished by labels on high-resolution, 10-character OLED displays. Buttons and volume knobs are also positioned to be quickly located and controlled.

HelixNet is the optimal intercom for all types of applications because of its durability, superb sound, and reliability. Fabricated from lightweight cast aluminum, the rugged system is tough enough for demanding indoor and outdoor use.  Designed with high quality “Clear-Com Sound”, the system enables clear communcation. In addition, program volume levels are adjustable to aid concentration in the noisy areas.  Another differentiator is that the system is unaffected by electromagnetic interference and ground loops, eliminating hums and buzzes.

All in all, users that have taken advantage of HelixNet have been able to improve collaboration, reduce costs, and boost efficiency.

Vote for Clear-Com's FreeSpeak II!

Vote for Clear-Com's FreeSpeak II Wireless Intercom to win the 2014 Sound & Video Contractor Most Innovative Product Award! 

Vote here:  
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/ZMLT9D9

Here's why we think FreeSpeak II should win: 


FreeSpeak II™‘s ground-breaking design and technology makes it the highest performing wireless intercom option. It can be tailored for applications of any magnitude and complexity, and within varying environments. The wireless solution also delivers unmatched quality audio, innovative features and beneficial capabilities that increase productivity.

FreeSpeak II enables users to collaborate effectively despite challenging work conditions, such as RF interference and poor weather. In spaces saturated with 2.4 GHz consumer devices, many wireless intercoms suffer from audio fading and connection loss since they are competing for the same frequency spectrum. FreeSpeak II operates in multiple license-free DECT bands from 1.897-1.933GHz. Thus, it enables continuous, clear communication even in RF hostile settings and eliminates the need for frequency coordination.

FreeSpeak II’s new active antennas and wireless beltpacks are built with state-of-the-art technology that enhances reliable wireless connections. Active antennas utilize separate data and audio channels in DECT6 to create a dependable link between beltpacks and the base station or Eclipse HX matrices. Beltpacks possess cellular auto-roaming technology as well, allowing them to constantly scan and automatically select the optimal wireless signal.

The system can also withstand frequent usage in harsh weather conditions and environments. The beltpack is IP-65 rated, which means that it is water and dust resistance for demanding outdoor and indoor use. The beltpack’s rugged, exterior housing is also constructed with polycarbonate plastic and thermoplastic elastomer overmold, making it highly durable.

In addition, FreeSpeak II is scalable for applications of different sizes and sophistication. With FreeSpeak II, people can easily add more beltpack users as their team and workload grows. They can also extend communication across large work spaces. As a standalone base station, the system can support 20 full-duplex wireless beltpacks. This is the preferred option for smaller applications requiring a few mobile users. It can also be scaled for mid-to-large installations. By implementing it as an integrated wireless solution within Eclipse HX matrices, known as FreeSpeak II Integra, up to 50 full-duplex wireless beltpack can be used simultaneously.

Moreover, the system’s wireless coverage can be expanded with locally-powered active antennas. Antennas can be positioned up to 3,200 ft away, or 800 ft away when centrally powered from the base station. Five way antenna splitters and up to 10 antennas can be installed to create an exceptionally wide coverage zone for beltpack users to roam.

Users are also able to benefit from FreeSpeak II’s high quality audio, ease-of-use and advanced features. The system delivers superior digital ‘Clear-Com Sound’ for clear intelligibility and ultimate audio comfort. The intuitive design of the beltpack makes it incredibly simple for users to navigate the interface and customize their own settings. Beltpacks offer five intercom channels to enable efficient management of workflows. And innovations such as “Listen Again” message replay as well as battery health, RF status and antenna link monitoring add to the convenience of the system. By providing flexibility, simplicity and high performance, FreeSpeak II gives users a remarkable communication experience and empowers them to accomplish more.

Help Save Sound Design Tony Award Categories - Sign Petition

For the past 68 years, the Tony Awards have recognized the best of the best in live Broadway theater. The Tony Awards is theater's equivalent to the Academy Awards for film, the Grammy Awards for music or the Emmy Awards for television. 

In 2008, the Tony Administration awarded the first Tony Awards for Best Sound Design of a Play and Best Sound Design of a Musical. These awards honor the work of acoustic designers who do more than just turn on talent mics. Sound Design is the process of specifying, acquiring, manipulating and generating all elements of audio. Effective sound design of a live performance helps evoke emotion, it underscores the action and it reflects the overall mood of what is happening on stage. 

On Wednesday, June 11th, 2014, the Tony Awards Administration Committee passed a vote to eliminate both Sound Design of a Play and Sound Design of a Musical for the competitive award categories, beginning with the 2014-2015 season. Instead, they may award a Special Tony Award to a production when they have determined that extraordinary sound design has been achieved. 

The announcement that the Sound Design awards were to be eliminated, a mere 6 years after its inception, sent ripples throughout the sound designer community. Within hours, veteran Broadway Sound Designer and Composer, John Gromada, launched an online petition to gather signatures to reinstate the Sound Design awards.

Click HERE to sign the petition to reinstate the Sound Design Tony Awards

Articles: 
>>Tony Awards Committee Mutes Sound Honors
>>Tony Awards Administration Committee Determines 2014-15 Eligibility Rules; Sound Design Categories Eliminated

Clear-Com Interview at NAB Show StudioXperience (Video)

In an interview from the 2014 NAB Show StudioXperience, our Clear-Com President, Bob Boster, speaks with Steve Waskul about delivering communication tools to professionals for a wide range of activities. He discusses the history and development of Clear-Com as well as our current communication offerings and how our systems are being used. He also covers several important announcements that were made at the NAB Show, including the news about the award winning HelixNet® Partyline intercoms and ProGrid^TM.

Watch the full interview here: Clear-Com Interview at NAB Show StudioXperience

The Winner of the Clear-Com Video Contest is....

Find out which school won Clear-Com's Your Voice Your School video contest by watching this short video!

Clear-Com Photo Contest

As part of Clear-Com’s 45 year anniversary, we introduced new beltpacks -- the RS-700 Series -- and created a limited supply of Special Edition RS-701 analog partyline beltpacks you can win in this photo contest. These Special Edition beltpacks feature a unique design, and the signature of Clear-Com’s Co-Founder and inventor of the first beltpack: Charlie Butten!

Use your imagination and take the most creative photo with a Clear-Com partyline beltpack in it! The beltpack in the image must still be working.

Feel free to be original – include yourself or your pet in the photo, take a photo of it during a production, or even make it a surprising or hilarious image! Upload your image to Clear-Com’s Facebook photo contest page or submit via Twitter using the hashtag "#clearcom". Don’t forget to include a thoughtful caption!

Share the image with as many of your friends as possible! Your friends can vote for your submission once a day.

Contest ends December 31, 2013. Two individuals will win a Special Edition RS-701 beltpack: 1. The person that has the photo with most votes 2. Clear-Com will pick the second winner. This will be the person that has the most creative photo according to the Clear-Com marketing team. The winners will be announced on or before January 31, 2014.

Please read the Official Rules. Enter contest here: Clear-Com Photo Contest

Clear-Com News at USITT!

New Product Brag and Swag 
Clear-Com will be demonstrating its state-of-the-art HelixNet Partyline system at the USITT New Product Brag and Swag. We'll also be giving away some awesome Clear-Com travel mugs to lucky attendees! Don't miss out! 

When and Where
Delta Center, Ballroom CD Thursday, March 21st 8:20-8:30pm

And the Award Winner Is...
Clear-Com will be presenting the USITT Stage Management award again this year. Last year, we honored Carnegie Mellon senior, David Beeler, for his excellence in stage management and his dedication to the performing arts. Stay tuned to find out who will win! 

Did You Know...
USITT Is Using Clear-Com! 
Full Compass, a Clear-Com Partner, will be supplying Clear-Com's Tempest2400 wireless intercom system, Tempest2400 BeltStations and CC-300 headsets for USITT's event production. In fact, the awards ceremony on Opening Night (March 20th) will all be coordinated with the help of Clear-Com's intercoms. See if you can spot our systems!

We're a Rock Our World Winner!

This year, at LDI in Orlando, one of our applications, Disney World of Color, were listed as a finalist in the PLASA Rock Our World Awards........AND WE WON!!!

What are the Rock Our World Awards?

The Rock Our World Awards is an annual recognition for outstanding and groundbreaking achievements within the entertainment technology industry and is offered only to members of the PLASA organization. Because this year PLASA and ESTA have merged, this is the first year where the awards program has expanded to a global event. 12 Finalists made it to the final round and 7 Winners were announced at the 2011 PLASA Cocktail and Awards Reception the night before the LDI show in Orlando opened.

WINNER:  Disney World of Color

A.C.T. Lighting, Christie, Clear-Com, Fisher Technical Services, Green Hippo, IATSE Local 33, MA Lighting International, Meyer Sound Laboratories, PRG, Syncrolite, TMB, Walt Disney Parks and Creative Entertainment

"The Disney World of Color attraction at Disney's California Adventure park was unveiled to the world in June 2010 after three years of development and construction. Walt Disney parks and Resorts Creative Entertainment worked with fellow PLASA members to create a 'nighttime water spectacular' that synchronizes elements of water, color, fire, light, projection, and music to dizzying effect.

The attraction boasts an astounding collection of equipment and machinery. 1,200 water fountains each equipped with an LED light ring, shoot water 200 feet into the air. Images from the Disney canon are projected onto a 380-foot long mist screen. Fire nozzles shoot flames 50 feet into the air, and telescopic masts rise from the water - each supporting domes filled with lighting and video effects. Fog, lasers, searchlights, and light towers circling Paradise Bay round out the spectacle."  - excerpted from Lighting and Sound America. 

Congratulations to Disney World of Color and all those that participated in this extraordinary application!