Congratulations to the winners of the 2023 Best in Market awards, a co-production of Sound & Video Contractor, AV Technology, and Systems Contractor News. Winners are new products for 2023 and were judged by AV professionals from among submitted products.
Shure Microflex Advance MXA902
This Integrated Conferencing Ceiling Array is a ceiling-mounted audio solution for AV conferencing, with a state-of-the-art array microphone for enhanced directional voice capture designed to provide consistent sound and an equitable meeting experience no matter where participants are seated. This in contrast to a soundbar which makes for a quick installation but results in inconsistent sound quality – often putting the person at the head of table in the worst acoustic position. The MXA902 is the first-ever conferencing ceiling array microphone with integrated wide-dispersion loudspeaker for natural sounding far-end speech and onboard IntelliMix DSP. The IntelliMix DSP applies automatic mixing, echo cancellation, noise reduction, and automatic gain control. Built for IT managers and AV professionals of all experience levels, it is a reliable and installation-friendly; users can efficiently transform any small to medium-sized room into an equitable meeting space at a quality that used to be exclusive to larger spaces. From the judges: “Shure’s MXA902 is now the easiest ceiling mounted collaboration device for integrators to install in conference room as the inclusion of a speaker in the single tile microphone array cuts down on labor for cable runs and integrating third party hardware into the physical environment. Having tested the MXA902 this summer it’s now my go to for the majority of conference and collaborative spaces including smaller classrooms.”
Blaze Audio CCA10i-BAThe Blaze Audio CCA10i is a compact, 3-way arrayable point source loudspeaker designed for medium-sized venues to large distributed systems that need a flexible, scalable loudspeaker solution. Mounted horizontally with tight acoustic centers to minimize comb filtering, each CCA10i enclosure provides a fixed 20-degree vertical coverage pattern and can be flown with additional enclosures in vertical arrays. The system’s constant curvature waveguide provides unprecedented array coherence along with precision 160-degree symmetrical horizontal pattern control. The CCA10i features two 10-inch high-excursion, ultra-low distortion drivers that offer reduced power compression, with diaphragms providing efficient and accurate bass reproduction down to 52Hz. Featuring a coaxial compression driver that uses separate midrange and high-frequency polymer ring-shaped diaphragms, the compression driver coupled to the stabilized waveguide and constant directivity horn delivers a response ranging from 420Hz – 18kHz. From the judges: “The seasoned design team at Blaze Audio continue to break into the market with a strong investment in new products. The CCA10i is a very appealing speaker cabinet for a variety of installations and markets with its fixed 20-degree vertical coverage and turnkey approach.”
DVIGear DisplayNet DN-300 SDVoE Transmitter / Receiver
This TR/TX capitalizes on the latest SDVoE ASIC technology. The highly versatile DN-300 provides 4K/60 (4:4:4) video distribution with limitless scalability, zero-frame latency and zero image artifacts. The DN-300 offers switchable Transmitter/Receiver operation, PoE+ support, and dual (copper/fiber) network interfaces that enable signal extension distances of up to 100 meters (328 ft.) with CAT-6A twisted pair and up to 30 KM (18.6 miles) with single-mode fiber. The unit includes auxiliary H.264/5 video output streams that provide support for viewing source thumbnails and for remote viewing/recording with resolutions up to 1080 /30p. The DN-300 provides silent, fanless operation, advanced network security features, and versatile KVM routing with full-bandwidth USB 2.0. With an ultra-compact, low-profile case, 4x units can occupy a single 1U of rack space. DisplayNet also includes software-defined MultiViewer and Advanced Video Wall engines that power a wide range of applications without the expense and complexity of ancillary products. In 2023 DisplayNet 3.8 brought several important enhancements and features to the DN-300 with a specific focus on improved device management for building/campus-scale systems with hundreds of endpoints. Enhancements include new features for large-scale device management and updates to subsystems to improve scalability. In addition to many performance enhancements, DisplayNet 3.8 introduced Device Tagging, allowing the organization and filtering of device groups. New firmware and the latest version of the SDVoE API were included in the update. From the judges: “DVIGears DisplayNet DN-300 transceiver is a silent but effective solution in the crowded AVoverIP market. While the features match other products in the category, the single SKU design supporting copper and fiber is a great option for integrators building out new systems.”
L-Acoustics L SeriesThe L2 and L2D are designed to work together or independently for sound consistency over the audience and improved rejection everywhere else, with an industry-leading SPL per line length, weight, and visual size. L2 is a full-range progressive line source element designed for medium to large-sized mobile and installation applications. Based on the patented Progressive Ultra-dense Line Source (PULS) technology, L2 offers a combination of sonic performance, power-to-size, and weight ratios with easier deployment. Housing eight 3″ compression drivers loaded on DOSC waveguides, eight 10″ drivers, and four 12″ drivers mounted on the sides, L2 delivers broad bandwidth with reinforced LF contour and high output capacity. The combination of high component density in a single enclosure ensures proximity between them and the 16 channels of DSP, and amplification provided by the LA7.16 produces unprecedented control and sonic consistency. L2 is shaped in a progressive mechanical arrangement producing 10° of vertical control and features four user-adjustable modules of PanflexTM to increase horizontal coverage flexibility. One L2 or L2D provides the same contour as four full-range line sources in a format that is 46% smaller and 40% lighter, thus reducing truck and storage space. Up to four L2 or three L2 and one L2D element can be assembled to form a fixed J-shape line source via a captive rigging system that automatically locks securely with the single cable connector and pin-less auto-lock rigging system. The absence of inter-element angles assures errorless setup and substantially increases the speed of deployment. From the judges: “This series does more with less. Less pack space, less weight, less time to deploy, and less environmental impact– 56% less paint, 30% less wood, and 60% less steel resulting in 30% less volume and 25% less weight as compared to an equivalent line source array.”
Martin Audio FlexPointThis new point-source loudspeaker, part of Martin Audio’s FlexPoint series, is designed for short-throw distributed systems which require premium sound quality from a miniature enclosure. It is ideal for installations or events requiring spot and fill coverage where space is limited. With a wide and smooth frequency response, it reproduces both speech and music accurately. Martin Audio’s renowned Coaxial Point Source technology is at the heart of FP4. It improves summation of the LF and HF sections at the crossover point, resulting in a smoother and more consistent frequency response off-axis. Additionally, FlexPoint coaxial drivers exhibit exemplary dispersion patterns thanks to Martin Audio’s innovative acoustic technology. This starts by incorporating a two-stage waveguide within the magnet structure. The first stage of the waveguide blends the circular exit of the HF compression driver into a slot exit. The second stage merges the slot exit into a specially contoured LF cone which determines the overall coverage pattern. This approach achieves constant directivity characteristics in the horizontal plane while also avoiding a separate add-on horn which would impede the wavefront from the cone and cause irregularities in the frequency response, both on and off-axis. The FP4 is a two-way passive design featuring a 4” LF driver and a 0.7” exit HF driver with a 1” diameter high-temperature polymer dome. It has a maximum SPL of 108dB peak, and its Coaxial Point Source configuration produces a well-defined, conical 110° dispersion pattern which is perfect for close proximity applications. From the judges: “This speaker cabinet fills a very small hole in the Martin product line with impressive performance in a minimalistic form factor. Perfect for stair fills and theatrical applications without having to resort to third party options.”
Canon PTZ CR-N700 4KThis 4K 60P 4:2:2 10-bit PTZ camera carries a 1.0-inch Type CMOS Sensor and 12G-SDI connectivity, and is designed for professional broadcast, studios, houses of worship, and live event productions. To meet the current demands of broadcasters, the CR-N700 features a DIGIC DV7 processor to deliver 4K UHD 60P 4:2:2 10-bit imagery for immersive content. Capable of high-quality transmission, it allows content creators to stream 4K 60P over IP with PoE++ support that allows for streaming and camera control over a single cable. The camera features SRT and NDI|HX protocols; FreeD enables integration with virtual productions. Broadcasters can easily create multi-camera setups, and with Canon’s XC protocol, users can integrate the CR-N700 alongside other Canon Cinema EOS for a versatile setup. In April, Canon announced the “Add-On Applications System” for PTZ remote cameras to provide access to new paid video production features such as auto tracking and auto loop across Canon’s suite of PTZ Remote Cameras. The auto tracking application gives users the ability to automatically pan, tilt, and zoom to track moving subjects, while the auto loop application allows users to program and automate repeated camera movements. In January 2023, Canon announced that these add-ons would be made available to the CR-N700. From the judges: “The CR-N700 is a 4K 60P 4:2:2 10-bit PTZ camera is a premium product that is perfect if you’re already working in a Canon ecosystem. The features and specifications of the CR-N700 clearly exceed other products on the market.”
WyreStorm Technologies NetworkHD 500 Series
The NetworkHD 500s series offers a full HDMI 2.0 1Gb AVoIP solution. The 500 series can encode up to 4K60 4:4:4 8bit and support high framerate Dolby Vision, HDR10 and HLG content. Advanced processing features include video walls with bezel correction, incredibly fast matrix switching, and ultra-low latency distribution. The 500 series also support ARC for residential applications along with high-speed USB extension for commercial installs over the most widely used 1Gb Ethernet Networks. WyreStorm’s NHD-500 is TAA Compliant, adhering to the rigorous standards set by the U.S. Government, and is required for sale to federal agencies. From the judges “WyreStorm’s NetworkHD 500 series AVoverIP transmitters use JPEG2000 encoding for stellar video performance over a 1GB network. What is impressive about the WyreStorm NetworkHD product line is the multiple models that each bring a little something extra to the table whether it be Dante audio or a even a 4k multiview switcher for even greater control of sources.”
Sony Electronics SLS-1AThis high-performance powered line-array speaker is purpose-built to create new sound field coverage when paired with large format displays. It combines beam steering, high-quality sound and flexible installation, designed for education, corporate, retail and faith. The speaker solves common pain points for large and medium spaces with large format displays, for example, unfavorable acoustics and architectural challenges, intelligibility, separation of visuals and sound, and the inability to create a listening experience prioritized for each participant. The bar-style speaker has a wide sweet spot, which creates a clear sound field in larger spaces. With its compact and modular design, the SLS-1A is equipped with Sony’s unique speaker technology, in addition to an onboard DSPand power amplification providing 80W total per module. The SLS-1A suppresses sound distortion and enables beam steering which accurately controls the direction and angle of sound delivery. Packing eight channels of AMP/DSP into a rigid aluminum casing, the SLS-1A can be aligned vertically or horizontally. Several speakers can be added to the system through a single Dante connection. The speaker features center-screen sound localization technology using horizontally placed speaker arrays to create a “phantom” center channel effect. Unlike standard speakers, the line array design of the SLS-1A minimizes sound reflections from ceilings, walls, and floors. Audiences can hear uniform, clearly directed sound with less attenuation over long distances, independent of room size or shape. From the judges: “Sony delivers a product we didn’t realize we needed. Compact precision, clean lines and completely customizable installation options really provide contractors a single product that can cover a whole host of supportive audio needs with a single SKU.”
TEKVOX TekFlex-85T ProThis 4K 8×5 Universal HyFlex Matrix Switcher is designed to simplify the implementation of large distance learning and HyFlex systems in a powerful 1RU package. The TekFlex-85T Pro includes dual HDBaseT outputs for multi-display systems, a quad-multiview camera switcher with USB capture, and seven HDMI inputs & 1 USB-C input with 60W charging. Matrix switching ensures that any input can be routed to any output, and the switcher includes twelve flexible multiview configurations for displaying up to four sources at once, as well as an auto-switching mode. The built-in, multi-host USB 3.0 KVM BYOM from an in-room PC, 2 separate HDMI laptops, and a USB-C laptop. The TekFlex-85T Pro also includes an internal DSP with four microphone inputs (each with selectable phantom power) for mixing microphones, providing speech reinforcement, echo cancellation, and AEC reference for ceiling microphones. Finally, the TekFlex-85T Pro includes a PoE-capable internal network switch, which drastically reduces the number of network connections needed for larger systems. The camera multiviewer supports Side-by-Side (SBS) and Picture-in-Picture (PIP) usage of system cameras for conferencing. From the judges: “If you’re looking for a matrix switcher with five outputs the TekFlex-85T Pro provides one additional output where most other products stop at four. The overall feature set of this Drop-in AV product from TekVox adds a lot of convenience including internal DSP and network switching so it’s clear the design team has spent many years working in ProAV markets.”
Extron XPA Ultra FXThese are eight and four channel multi-zone audio power amplifiers designed for flexibility. A single unit can be set up in a variety of configurations to support large systems with multiple speaker types. These amplifiers can simultaneously drive 8 ohm, 4 ohm, 70 volt, and 100 volt loads, and are easily configurable per channel. Each channel of an adjacent pair dynamically draws power from the pair’s total wattage, delivering optimal power where it’s needed according to system requirements. XPA Ultra FX amplifiers feature Extron InstaWake+ technology, offering the industry-leading ability to return to full power from standby in under 5 milliseconds after the input signal is detected. Compared to other amplifiers that require well over 500 milliseconds to wake up, this ensures no part of the audio is ever cut off. With a new industrial design, the fan-cooled enclosure can be part of a high-tech aesthetic or hidden away in a rack, without requiring adjacent empty space for ventilation. From the judges: “The Extron XPA Ultra FX Series might just be my new favorite installation grade amplifier with the ability to customize output type and share power between adjacent channels. The statistics on wake from standby are impressive and show how innovation is leading to greener AV products.”
Add-On Applications System for Canon 4K PTZ Cameras
Canon designed the new “Add-On Applications System” for PTZ remote cameras to provide access to new paid video production features like auto tracking and auto loop. The system’s paid add-on applications provide users with access to new video production features that streamline the video production process and improve the quality of the final product. The auto tracking add-on allows users to automatically pan, tilt, and zoom to track moving subjects. This feature reduces the camera operator’s workload, allowing them to focus on other tasks. It also allows for multi-camera shoots with fewer people on set. This add-on is ideal for end-users in markets like house of worship and corporate event streaming, educational workshops and lectures, and broadcast and corporate interviews. The auto loop add-on automates repeated camera movements, lessening the burden for camera operators. With this add-on, users have the flexibility to select between two repeated movements based on the shooting environment. Additionally, they can conveniently adjust settings like position, route, preview, and start from one screen. The add-on applications are unique in the PTZ market as they run from the camera itself, which is also cost-efficient, rather than other solutions in the market that require external devices to operate functions like auto tracking.
