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.
Weatherized battery-powered loudspeaker with Bluetooth® audio and control
Electro-Voice is pleased to announce the global introduction of the EVERSE 8 weatherized battery-powered loudspeaker with Bluetooth® audio and control. The first battery-powered loudspeaker from Electro-Voice and the first weatherized model of its type, EVERSE 8 takes advantage of decades of Electro-Voice engineering expertise – along with the latest advancements in technology – to provide a truly portable and truly wireless audio experience at a price and performance level unmatched by current, comparable products on the market.
Whether used for live music, vocal reinforcement, and/or audio playback, musicians, DJs, production/rental companies, fitness/activity instructors, and other professional, amateur, and recreational users can all benefit from EVERSE 8’s superior sound quality, user-friendliness and all-in-one PA system design – a concept that opens-up real pro-audio performance for a wider range of users than ever before. EVERSE 8 comes in a black or white finish, adding an aesthetic angle to its versatility.
With a maximum SPL rating of 121 dB and wide, even 100º x 100º coverage, EVERSE 8’s capabilities defy its compact form factor and set uncompromising new benchmarks for its product segment. Core components include an 8” woofer mounted using EV’s patented SST (Signal Synchronized Transducers) port design, and a high-output titanium tweeter mounted onto a custom constant-directivity waveguide. EVERSE 8 is driven by a high-efficiency Class-D amplifier and DSP module developed in collaboration with the world-class audio electronics engineering team at EV’s sibling brand Dynacord. Pro features include a built in four-channel digital mixer with studio-quality effects and processing, 48 V phantom power, feedback suppression and audio ducking. And, as with all Electro-Voice portable loudspeakers, EVERSE 8’s system reliability is verified with extensive music abuse and endurance testing.
EVERSE 8 is powered by a custom-designed high-capacity Li-ion battery pack, fully optimized for audio use and providing plentiful power for up to 12 hours of run time. Protection circuitry reduces the risk of the battery discharging to such a low voltage that it can no longer be recharged – for example, after long periods in storage. Tool-free screws make removing the battery pack effortless.
EVERSE 8’s flexible features ensure a truly self-contained setup, input to output. Wireless control and monitoring are easy with the EV QuickSmart Mobile app, which can be used to adjust all audio, effects, and mix functions via phone or tablet. An intuitive user interface makes it simple to shape the sound to the space, so users can focus on their performance instead of the hardware. An integrated 12 V DC port provides convenient power from the EVERSE 8 battery, making it perfect for powering a wireless microphone system such as the Electro-Voice RE3 or R300 (see user manual for details) – simply attach the optional accessory tray to the top of an EVERSE 8 to secure receiver hardware in place. For stereo setups, EVERSE 8 is equipped for Bluetooth® true wireless stereo streaming. A charging port is also included for mobile devices if a top-up is needed when streaming.
Every detail of EVERSE 8 is designed to maximize easy lifting and transportation – all while reinforcing EV’s reputation for real-world durability. An ergonomically designed soft-touch handle and premium lightweight construction make it a breeze to move and mount EVERSE 8, whether on a tripod for a longer throw, set long-side-down as a stage wedge using the 55° monitor angle, or used upright with the 30° kick-back angle to project up off the performance area. Built-in feet with no-skid rubber pads ensure the system stays put. In combination with the rugged polypropylene enclosure, use of the included weatherized input cover allows EVERSE 8 to meet the IP43 rating (water resistant for splashes and light rain) when running on battery power and while Bluetooth® streaming – bring EVERSE 8 outside for busking, marching band practice, or the backyard BBQ, or wherever a PA is needed, whatever the forecast. An optional tote bag is also available, designed to fit everything the user might need in addition to their EVERSE 8: accessory tray and weather cover, wireless mic and receiver, extra battery, XLR and power cables, and mobile devices.
EVERSE 8 will be available from ApexPro in January 2023.
