The choice of equipment is paramount in a world where every beam and hue must dance in perfect harmony. That is why ApexPro take pride in our role as the trusted supplier of top-tier lighting solutions. We’re empowering rental companies like Splitbeam with the tools they need to dazzle audiences night after night. Our partnership with ETC stands as a beacon of quality and innovation. It’s a partnership that benefits not just our clients, but the entire industry.
Splitbeam, a premier rental company, known for their commitment to excellence. They rely on us to supply them with ETC equipment that sets the stage ablaze with brilliance. From multitalented ColourSource Cyc washes to the powerful @5 fixtures, ETC’s products have become synonymous with reliability and performance. We are proud to be the conduit through which these cutting-edge technologies reach the hands of industry professionals.
What sets our collaboration apart is not just the exchange of equipment, but the promise of investment. Rental companies understand the value of quality equipment. Equipment that not only meets their immediate needs, but also pays dividends in the long run. By investing in our products, rental companies are assured that they’re not just purchasing tools – they’re investing in assets. It will continue to deliver exceptional performance and reliability, ultimately paying for themselves over time.
Consider the CYC washes, versatile fixtures that can paint the stage with an endless spectrum of colours. A fixture that creates atmospheres that captivate audiences and bring productions to life. Whether it’s a subtle wash to set the mood or a vibrant burst of light to punctuate a climactic moment, the CYC washes from ETC deliver stunning results every time. With their energy-efficient design, they not only enhance the visual experience, but also contribute to cost savings. It’s an investment that pays off with every performance.
Then there is the Gio@5. A powerhouse fixture that combines precision optics with unparalleled control, allowing lighting designers to sculpt light with incomparable precision. From sharp beams to soft washes, the @5 offers versatility that’s unmatched in its class. Once again giving rental companies the flexibility they need to tackle a wide range of productions with confidence. With features like advance colour mixing and seamless integration with lighting control systems, the @5 is a game-changer for any lighting designer seeking to push the boundaries of creativity.
Beyond the technical specifications and features, what truly sets ETC’s products apart is their reliability. In an industry where every moment counts and every performance is a testament to teamwork and dedication, rental companies need equipment they can trust. With ETC, they get more than just lighting fixtures – they get peace of mind, knowing that their productions are in good hands.
To all the rental companies out there looking to elevate their productions and delight audiences with unforgettable experiences, look no further than ApexPro. With our partnership with ETC, you not only get access to cutting-edge lighting solutions, but also a promise of quality, reliability, and performance that will illuminate every stage, every night.
In a harmonious partnership, Splitbeam, has chosen ApexPro for their audio needs. Splitbeam is the rental company behind the scenes of the current sensation, Mamma Mia! They have raised the bar yet again by integrating top-tier equipment into their arsenal.
Building on their dedication to delivering unparalleled sound experiences, Splitbeam has recently expanded their inventory. Concurrently, they now have a selection of Sennheiser and DPA equipment supplied by ApexPro. Among the additions and 16 dual-channel EW-DX receivers, 32 packs, and 4 additional handheld microphones. Completely kitted, they are consequently able to enhance their capability to cater to large-scale productions like Mamma Mia! with ease.
Joining forces with DPA Microphone, Splitbeam has already solidified their commitment to excellence. They have acquired 35 4061 DPA lapel microphones and 4 2028DPA handheld capsules. Evidently, this is the winning combination of DPA’s precision engineering and Sennheiser’s reliability. With unmatched clarity and fidelity, it captures every note; From the infectious melodies of ‘Honey Honey’ to the anthemic choruses of ‘The Winner Takes It All’.
“These miniature marvels,” Clifford Weilich from Splitbeam says, referring about the DPA4061’s, “have seamlessly woven themselves into the fabric for most of our audio productions. Moreover, the DPA handheld capsules have now increased the variety of options available in our rental market.”
Splitbeam decided to trust us with their sound needs for Mamma Mia!. This is a testament to the unwavering quality and performance of our products. Together with Sennheiser and DPA, we are effectively setting new standards for sound excellence in musical theatre.
Dante enables network audio capability and integrates with Sennheiser equipment. This further underscores Splitbeam’s commitment to innovation and elevating the audience’s audio experience to new heights. Behind every electrifying note and heartfelt lyric of Mamma Mia! lies the meticulous attention to sound. This is all made possible by the seamless collaboration between ApexPro, Sennheiser, and DPA Microphones.
“DPA has become a household name of ours,” Clifford also remarks, “due to their transparent and natural sound reproduction. Currently, Mamma Mia is using it as a Forehand Worn Microphone Solution. As well as using the DPA 2028 Capsules for the infamous Donna and the Dynamos.”
As audiences immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Mamma Mia!, they can rest assured that ApexPro provides unparalleled quality and reliability, enhancing every moment. Together, we continue to bring the magic of musical theatre to life, one unforgettable performance at a time.
In the world of theatrical production, the choice of sound equipment can make or break the experience. Where every note and whisper must reach the audience with crystal clarity. At ApexPro, we’ve long been champions of quality. Our enduring partnership with Meyer Sound stands as a testament to our commitment to excellence.
For years, Eastern Acoustics and Splitbeam, two esteemed rental companies, have relied on us to supply them with Meyer Sound equipment for their stellar productions. According to David from Eastern Acoustics, “Meyer is our go-to PA system for multiple different things, especially theatre.” This echoes the sentiments of countless professionals in the industry who trust Meyer Sound to deliver unparalleled performances night after night. For timeless classics like The Sound of Music to electrifying hits of Mamma Mia, Meyer Sound has been the invisible force behind the scenes. It ensures that every performance resonates with perfection.
What sets our collaboration apart is not just the sheer longevity of our relationship, but the remarkable durability and reliability of Meyer Sound’s equipment. Take, for instance, the Meyer Heritage M1D’s – the backbone of productions like LAMTA’s Spring Awakening. These workhorses, supplemented by Eastern Acoustics’ own M1D’s, have been faithfully delivering flawless sound since 2006. It’s a verification of Meyer Sound’s craftmanship that these older models continue to reign supreme in an industry constantly seeking the latest innovations.
But our partnership extends beyond just the classics. For productions requiring deep, resonant bass, we’ve supplied the powerful 700-HP sub bass units. For more nuanced soundscapes, the UPQ-1P and UPQ-2P speakers have provided pristine audio reproduction. While the versatility of the UPM, UPJ, UP-Junior, and UPA series ensure that every corner of the stage and auditorium is bathed in perfect sound. And let’s not forget the MM-4, a compact marvel that packs a punch far beyond its size.
The story doesn’t end there. The MICA system, a veteran on the stage, has faithfully served multiple runs of We Will Rock You – not just the 2022 run, but also in 2005 before that. From South Africa to the latest rendition, the consistency and quality of Meyer Sound remains unwavering. And let’s not forget the M’elodie, which currently finds it’s voice in Mamma Mia, proving once again that age is no barrier to excellence.
While the classics hold a special place in our hearts, we also embrace the future with open arms. Modern technology meets timeless performance in Meyer Sound’s new line up. The LINA, a marvel of engineering, has found its home at Artscape Theatre, enchanting audiences with productions like Calling Us Home and The Buddy Holly Story. Investing in Meyer Sound isn’t just about preserving tradition; it’s about embracing innovation and ensuring that the magic of live performance continues to captivate audiences for generations to come.
Whether it’s the comfort of the M1D’s or the crisp clarity of the LINA, one thing remains clear; Meyer Sound is more than just equipment – it’s the promise of perfection, a guarantee of greatness, and a melody that never fades. Join us in our journey as we continue to elevate the art of sound, one performance at a time.
When it comes to the magic of television production, even the smallest details can make a world of difference. Our team at ApexPro was proud to provide The Masked Singer SA production with our Riedel Bolero Intercoms. These intercoms ensure seamless communication among key crew members.
In the fast-paced world of entrainment, clear communication is crucial. Communication from the director to the camera operators, right down to the masked singers themselves. Without reliable intercom systems like the Riedel Bolero, chaos could easily ensue on set.
The introduction of Bolero to The Masked Singer South Africa S2 was an easy decision for Ashley Wilson (Engineer In Charge) and Vuyo Ncube (Guarantee Engineer) for this project.
“Bolero would address a large and demanding wireless comms mandate that we needed to fill for the second season of the show. Thanks to the Bolero’s seamless integration capabilities, the Bolero system effortlessly integrated with our existing setup, allowing for quick and easy install without any compatibility challenges. The Bolero comms are known for their crystal-clear audio quality and that is exactly what they brought to this high intensity environment. The clear and reliable communication lead to the success of this season’s production as every message, and cue was delivered with precision and clarity, even in a noisy studio environment.” Ashley Wilson
“Bolero is always a first choice for any of the productions I get to work on. The belt packs are intuitive and easy to use and understand quickly. The dedicated reply button on this specific production made it a breeze for crew members to respond quickly and effectively, even in high-stress situations. Once we had installed the system the positive feedback from the crew was a joy to have. The excitement that they could have their own partylines, each pack was customisable, and that we had integrated the belt packs into the existing PA system really took them all by surprise and made their jobs really simple. A big thank you to ApexPro for making this happen and their constant support in all the projects I’m involved in” Vuyo Ncube
At ApexPro, we understand that innovation doesn’t always come in large packages. Sometimes it’s the small tools behind-the-scenes that play a monumental role in bringing a production to life. We’re honoured to be a part of The Masked Singer SA journey. We also look forward to continuing to support the magic of television with cutting-edge technology.
Discovering the Global Stage, One Beat at a Time with Simphiwe “Smooth” Mhlanga and DPA Microphones
In a world where music knows no borders, the rhythm of Sub-Saharan Africa has found its way into the hearts and playlists of millions worldwide. The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry’s Global Music Report 2022 revealed that Sub-Saharan Africa experienced an impressive 34.7% surge in music sales in the previous year, with South Africa leading the charge with a 30% year-on-year increase in sales. African artists are reaching global audiences, propelling the South African music industry into the spotlight.
With the advent of streaming services like iTunes and Spotify, South African musicians are being discovered and enjoyed by a global audience. And with global recognition comes the opportunity for South African producers and sound engineers to showcase their talents and compete on equal footing with professionals from more established markets.
First to accept the challenge is Simphiwe “Smooth” Mhlanga, an up-and-coming sound engineer. Smooth’s journey into the world of sound engineering began as part of the production crew at Hope Restoration Ministries in Gauteng while he was still in high school. His passion for music and sound led him to pursue formal training specializing in film, television, radio, and broadcast.
After years of honing his skills, Smooth ventured into the world of freelance sound engineering. The pressure of the live music scene taught him a deep appreciation for reliable, high-quality gear and on-the-spot problem-solving. “Being a freelance sound engineer is an incredible learning experience for any young technician. You are only as good as your last job, and there are no second chances. It taught me the value of having professional quality, well-maintained equipment that meets the highest industry standards on every single gig,” he explains. As Smooth’s reputation grew, he became the sound engineer of choice for some of South Africa’s most promising music talents, including the late Kiernan Forbes (AKA) and Jabulani Hadebe (Sjava).
Smooth has also joined forces with like-minded young professionals to provide live production, outside broadcast, and post-production services for both creative and corporate clients in the region.
To ensure that local artists receive the same level of professionalism and equipment as their international counterparts, Smooth took a bold step early on in his career by investing in a top-tier inventory of audio equipment, including a set of DPA 2028 Vocal Microphones.
“The DPA 2028 Mic is a handheld vocal condenser mic that can be used wired or with a wireless system and is perfect for capturing the energy of high-intensity performances. It is specifically designed for the live stage, and offers exceptional sound quality, transparency, and versatility,” explains DPA product specialist at ApexPro, Keith Karimi.
Reflecting on his decision to invest in DPA technology, Smooth emphasizes the importance of serving the artist’s needs as a priority. “While many performers may not initially be aware of the difference top-quality microphones can make, they come to appreciate it once they experience it firsthand” Smooth points out. His ongoing commitment to enhancing the quality of local performances by using the industry’s best tools has garnered recognition and praise from artists and audiences alike.
South African music is no longer confined to its homeland; it has transcended borders and is opening much-needed opportunities to develop our local music industry. The success of professional production specialists like Smooth Mhlanga reflects the dedication, talent, and vision of the South African music industry as it continues to carve its place on the world stage. As the beats of Africa continue to captivate hearts worldwide, one thing is certain – the sound engineered by Smooth is transforming the way we experience South African music, one beat at a time.
New Product Introductions and Interactive Tech Bars Highlight ISE Presence
At this year’s Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) show in Barcelona, Meyer Sound will introduce a new product expected to have a significant impact on portable touring and installed sound industries. Only a year ago, the company debuted the phenomenally successful PANTHER™ large-format linear line array loudspeaker, setting a new standard for the industry and a new direction for Meyer Sound technologies.
“At ISE, we will introduce a powerful new Milan-equipped loudspeaker that extends and complements the clear benefits that already have earned global acceptance in PANTHER.”
John McMahon, Meyer Sound Senior Vice President
Also featured at the Meyer Sound stand (Hall 5, 5F100) will be a single PANTHER cabinet, unattached and available for team lifting to demonstrate its light weight of 150 lb (68 kg) and compact size. The class-leading acoustical performance of PANTHER is already proven in the real world and backed up with the latest technology, including a Milan AVB endpoint as standard.
The always-popular Tech Bar has been doubled for ISE 2023. One tech bar will feature the Spacemap® Go spatial sound design and mixing tool using a range of compact IntelligentDC™ loudspeakers. The other Tech Bar will focus on the networked power and flexibility of new ULTRA-X20™ loudspeakers and USW-112P™ subwoofers, also with integrated Milan endpoints.
Both Tech Bars will demonstrate Meyer Sound’s new Nebra™ software platform, which provides fast and intuitive connection of Milan-based audio networks along with comprehensive system monitoring over the same network or, for backward compatibility with existing systems, via the RMServer™.
Meyer Sound also will introduce another new Nebra-compatible product that is optimized for installation applications.
“Meyer Sound experienced a record year in 2022 and we will build on that momentum in 2023 starting at ISE,” says McMahon. “Our team looks forward to meeting in person in Barcelona with customers from around the world.”
ISE 2023 will take place in Barcelona, Spain at Fira Barcelona from January 31 to February 3, 2023.
ApexPro, the sole distributor of Meyer Sound solutions and products in Southern Africa, will be represented by Brendan Venter at ISE 2023.
