In a fixed installation that underscores the dependability and unparalleled versatility of AKG’s wireless microphone systems, PTC Group, Inc. recently designed a multi-unit WMS4500 system to drive nightly live performances in Parx Casino’s bustling 360 Ultra Lounge in Bensalem, Pennsylvania. Coupled with a set of AKG C5 handheld microphones for vocals, D40 mics for instruments and a number of D 112 and CK 99 L microphones inside the drum set, the wireless microphone system is being used by a wide variety of bands and DJs every night, and acts as the centrepiece to a complete Harman Professional sound system that includes JBL VerTec line arrays, Crown amplifiers, and a Soundcraft Si2 digital mixing console.
According to system designer Nathan Powell, president of PTC Group, Inc., the AKG wireless microphone system gives the 360 Ultra Lounge a level of performance, usability, and efficiency that other wireless microphone systems cannot.
“For a busy club-setting like the 360 Ultra Lounge, where we have a different act using the equipment every single night, the versatility of the AKG equipment is absolutely essential,� commented Powell. “The environmental scan and rehearsal functions allow us to easily program the right channels and just hand the mics off; the backlit display on the transmitters and receivers make it extremely easy to program each unit; and the audio quality is clear and precise.�
The WMS4500 was designed to maximize performance with an ultra-compact design. With a complete system made up of the SR4500 receiver, an HT4500 handheld transmitter, a PT4500 Bodypack transmitter, and a CU 4000 charging unit, the WMS 4500 offers two new frequency bands in the range of 500-530 MHz and 570–600 MHz – a feature that grants it the versatility needed to operate in a space like Parx Casino. When matching the system’s feature set and robustness with Harman’s HiQnetâ„¢ System Architectâ„¢ protocol, the WMS4500 gives a level of performance that is unrivalled at the system’s price point.
Another feature that makes the WMS4500 the optimal choice for a venue like the 360 Ultra Lounge is the system’s efficient use of energy. The remaining-battery-life readout on each unit alerts the user when the battery life is low, and the CU4000 charging dock allows for quick and easy recharging of each battery. What’s more, a the BP4000 battery pack that is included with the CU4000 charging system provides 16 hours on a single charge, ultimately helping the environment by reducing waste and saving money by ensuring longer battery life.
“With the battery monitoring and charging unit, they’ve really been able to optimize the system’s energy use, which has saved them money and allowed the casino to leave a very green footprint,� continued Powell. “That was one of the main goals when installing the Harman Professional system throughout the casino, and that was one of the reasons we selected the AKG system for the 360 Ultra Lounge.�
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jg8ehvIomu8
Harman HiQnetâ„¢ is the world’s first connectivity and control protocol that integrates all product categories in the signal chain for professional audio systems of all types, size, and applications. Harman HiQnet no longer requires the user to manage multiple disparate operating systems or be responsible for programming individual signal processors, speaker controllers, wireless microphone systems, and mixing consoles. HiQnet was developed by engineers from across Harman’s Professional Division and is coordinated by the System Development and Integration Group (SDIG), a team of dedicated systems specialists based in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Harman International Industries, Incorporated (www.harman.com), designs, manufactures and markets a wide range of audio and infotainment products for the automotive, consumer and professional markets. Harman International maintains a strong presence in the Americas, Europe and Asia, and employs more than 11,000 people worldwide. The Harman International family of brands includes AKG®, Becker®, BSS®, Crown®, dbx®, DigiTech®, Harman Kardon®, Infinity®, JBL®, Lexicon®, Mark Levinson®, Revel®, Soundcraft® and Studer®. Harman International’s stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “NYSE: HAR.�