InfoComm 2015: Yamaha Hits Orlando With Full Slate of Audio Products

Yamaha Professional Audio will shocase a variety of products at Booth #727, including the NEXO ID Series, Rivage PM10 Digital Mixing Console, Yamaha Rio 64-Input/Output Rack, Yamaha TF Series Digital Consoles, and four new models to the Commercial Installation Solutions (CIS) VXC Series ceiling speaker lineup.

NEXO ID Series
The new NEXO ID Series will be on display at InfoComm 2015 in demo room #W206C. A new Space A category of products, the ID Series is intended for use as problem solvers in toolkits of system designers and installers within the professional audio industry.

The NEXO ID Series loudspeaker cabinet is a very compact, low profile, small format, yet high output single speaker for use under balcony, for front fill and side fill applications, and is the perfect accompaniment to NEXO line arrays in acoustically challenging spaces. Using a variety of mounting options, the ID24 compact cabinet can fit into almost any environment, offering high SPL output with variable directivities enabling it to ‘beam’ sound into difficult spaces.

The ID Series class-leading power and performance combined with an unprecedented level of versatility, makes it suitable for a huge variety of install and touring applications. Currently, the new series is comprised of the ID24 full-range compact speaker that uses twin 4″ drivers, V formation, in combination with an HF compression driver offering two preset directivity options. Complementing the ID24 is two extremely low profile yet powerful subs: ID S110 (1×10″) and ID S210 (2×10″).

The unique design of the ID24 offers the user so many possibilities for tailored specification that NEXO has designated three versions: ID24i for installation, ID24t for touring and AV applications, and ID24c or the “a la carte” version which allows the customer to custom-configure the speaker to match precise requirements. The ID24 has a unique user-adjustable horn, which can be rotated easily without the need for tools by a switch on the rear panel to give 60 or 120- degree HF coverage with the standard horn fitted. This allows the HF horizontal dispersion to be ‘tuned’ for the given application – installed or touring. The ID24 can be mounted vertically or horizontally, effectively providing the user four different directivity options in each cabinet.

The ID24i, tailored to the fixed installation environment with its termination in captive cable for fast, secure connectivity using existing wiring, is available in Black or White with a matching fabric grille, threaded holes for compatibility with NEXO and popular third-party mounting hardware, and is all-weather IP55 rated.

For audio video and live music applications, the ID24t has a touring spec, featuring Speakon connectors and quick release rigging points for easy mounting – horizontally or vertically. The ID24t, also compatible with a range of NEXO and third party accessories, is available in black with a matching steel grille.
The unusual asymmetric shape of the ID24 cabinet further maximizes its possibilities. The module can be mounted horizontally or vertically, and, using the correct accessories, can be deployed as an under-balcony reinforcement module. In live performance situations, the ID24 can be pole-mounted or clipped onto a truss. A purpose-designed accessory allows it to be precisely angled for stage front-fill applications and can even be used as a wedge monitor, when stood upright in the horizontal plane.

Unique to the ID24, the ‘a la carte’ version offers the customer an unprecedented level of customization to match the loudspeaker to precise requirements, i.e. four different directivity options, all of which are reversible by rotating the horn; different mounting options; different colors, black, white or any RAL color; connectivity options: Speakon or captive cable; and grille options: steel, fabric or foam.

The two compact subs have a low profile, sleek design, which enables them to be easily installed discretely in a wide range of locations, for example, within walls, staircases, under furniture, and more.

The ID24 benefits from highly cost-effective amplification opportunities. For example, 16 NEXO ID24 cabinets can be powered by one NXAMP4x1 amplifier and NEXO’s smallest TDController offering a host of features including ‘channel-by-channel’ preset selection and remote monitoring using the NeMo App (now available for Mac). EtherSound and Dante network compatibility is available as an option.

Yamaha Rivage PM10
The new RIVAGE PM10 Digital Mixing Console will make its InfoComm 2015 debut.

The new flagship RIVAGE PM10 significantly increases the quality and versatility necessary in a live sound environment, and inherits features from the renowned PM Series Consoles. Evolved features and performance define yet another milestone for Yamaha sound reinforcement consoles. The PM10 system is comprised of the CS-R10 control surface, DSP-R10 DSP engine, RPio622 I/O rack, three types of RY cards, and two types of HY cards provide the flexibility to configure and ideally match the scale and functional requirements of any application.

Under the fundamental philosophy of Yamaha live sound consoles, Hybrid Microphone Preamplifiers have been newly-developed, as has the analog section both in terms of components and overall design, achieving an extraordinarily pure, natural sound. Impeccable models of the Rupert Neve Designs (RND) transformer circuitry and acclaimed SILK processing have been created utilizing Yamaha’s VCM (Virtual Circuitry Modeling) technology. The SILK processing feature even includes selectable “RED” and “BLUE” characteristics, and a continuously variable “TEXTURE” knob that facilitate sonic shaping right at the input stage, adding musical sparkle or power as required.

The channel EQ and dynamics have been significantly upgraded with three newly developed algorithms plus the classic Yamaha “Legacy” algorithm. The new “Precise” algorithm includes Q parameters on the low and high shelving filters that allow filter overshoot to be flexibly controlled for added musical impact. An “Aggressive” algorithm has been designed for the most musical response, and the “Smooth” algorithm offers smooth, natural control while retaining the fundamental character of the source. Two Dynamics stages are provided, each functioning as a gate, compressor, ducker, or de-esser as required. Two compressor types are included: “Legacy Comp” features standard Yamaha digital console compressor characteristics, and “Comp260,” a VCM model of a popular analog comp/limiter from the mid-70s.

A total of 45 plug-ins are available for creative processing, with substantially increased processing power. New and noteworthy are plug-ins created in collaboration with Rupert Neve Designs, TC Electronic, and Eventide.
Collaboration with Rupert Neve Designs has resulted in the “Rupert EQ 773,” “Rupert Comp 754,” “Rupert EQ 810,” and “Rupert Comp 830,” all VCM models of Neve designed outboard devices from the 70s and 80s. All four models deliver the gloriously musical vintage outboard sound still favored by many discerning engineers. The alliance with TC Electronic has resulted in the inclusion of two new reverb plug-ins: the “VSS4HD” room simulation reverb that offers a multitude of reflection settings with musical-sounding reverb processing capabilities, and the “NON LIN2” plug-in that can function as an envelope-filtered gate reverb without requiring a trigger.

Console operation has been given the utmost attention with the Yamaha-familiar Selected Channel section implemented in full, allowing all parameters of the selected channel to be directly and intuitively controlled. There are also two large LCD touch screens that provide logical continuity with the faders, offering the same operability as the highly regarded Centralogic interface in 12-channel groups. In addition to this dual interface hybrid operation style, horseshoe-ring encoder position indicators, refined panel layout, and several other details contribute to significantly improved overall operability.

New features extend the usefulness of the scene memory: “Isolate” enables the engineer to specify entire channel modules including EQ and dynamics libraries, etc., that will be protected from recall operations without altering the Recall Safe settings; significant for situations where scene memory is heavily used. The Overlay Filter can be “overlaid” on a current mix to apply temporary offsets to fader and mix/matrix send levels independently from Scene Recall – valuable in situations that require sudden changes and the ability to easily revert to the original settings.

The CS-R10 control surface and DSP-R10 DSP engine are connected via a dedicated CAT5e ring “Console Network.” The DSP engine connects to the RPio622 I/O racks via the newly developed TWINLANe ring network using multi-mode optical fiber. The fact that both networks use simple ring connections facilitates redundancy and the highest possible reliability. TWINLANe is an original Yamaha protocol that can handle up to 400 96kHz audio channels over distances of up to 300 meters with low latency and redundancy for high reliability. Up to two DSP-R10 DSP engines and eight RPio622 I/O racks can be connected in a single ring.

Connection to a computer for multi-track recording, connectivity to the NUAGE Advanced Production System, Yamaha CL and QL Series Consoles, as well as other external equipment is possible via a Dante network. Dante, designed for simple setup with an extremely wide range of professional audio devices, works ideally with TWINLANe to create an exceptionally flexible, reliable system overall.

RIVAGE PM10 will be available this year.

Yamaha Rio 64-Input/Output Rack Makes InfoComm Debut
The new RSio64-D I/O audio interface will make its InfoComm 2015 debut. The new interface provides up to 64 inputs and 64 outputs with Dante/Mini-YGDAI card conversion for broadcast, recording, live sound, and other professional audio applications. The new RSio64-D is a digital ‘Bento Box’ of sorts, the Japanese equivalent of a lunch box with compartments that contain various parts of the meal.

The Yamaha RSio64-D is a Dante/Mini-YGDAI format converting audio interface that can handle up to 64 inputs and 64 outputs while providing router functionality. It allows a wide range of input/output formats to be connected to a Dante network via four card slots that accept the comprehensive range of Mini-YGDAI cards available, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of applications. The RSio64-D can also be remotely controlled from Yamaha CL and QL Series digital consoles.

The RSio64-D is compatible with more than 30 different Mini-YGDAI cards. It is not just limited to I/O cards that handle formats like AES/EBU or ADAT, but also accepts processing cards that provide capabilities such as Lake Processors and Dan Dugan automatic mixing. Each Mini-YGDAI slot includes a sample rate converter (SRC) so that devices operating on different word clocks can be connected without causing noise or signal interruptions. Reliability is excellent with full support for Dante network redundancy (primary/secondary) as well as an EXT DC INPUT for redundant power supply.

To make the RSio64-D even more convenient and easy to use as a format converter and router, presets for seven basic routing patterns are built in including routing between Mini-YGDAI cards. A rotary switch on the front panel allows direct selection of one-to-one Dante/Mini-YGDAI routing, branched Mini-YGDAI/Mini-YGDAI routing, and other options designed to suit a variety of applications.

Used with the R Remote software application or a CL or QL Series digital console, full matrix patching will be supported so that more complex routing can be set up as required.

Since its introduction in 1998 the Mini-YGDAI format has evolved to encompass a broad range of host devices and cards. The RSio64-D is an innovative solution that not only makes it possible to utilize the Dante network, but also enables convenient routing between Mini-YGDAI cards. The RSio64-D will greatly expand the utility and power of sound systems built around Dante capable products.

Shipping is scheduled to begin this summer.

Yamaha TF Series Digital Consoles Make A ‘Splash’ In Orlando
The new Yamaha TF Series Digital Consoles will make their InfoComm debut. The TF Series offers re-imagined mixing and advanced features along with renowned Yamaha reliability at an affordable price point to an even wider range of users. Aimed at new users and experienced live sound professionals requiring fast performance, the TF series brings time-saving capabilities, such as fast, accurate gain setup, single step compression and EQ, and microphone specific presets to even the most modest sound reinforcement applications.
The TF series (which stands for TouchFlow Operation™) comprises three compact, performance-packed digital mixing consoles, the TF5, TF3 and TF1, which feature 33, 25, or 17 motor faders, respectively, along with 32, 24, or 16 rear-panel analog inputs. Each console includes recallable Yamaha D-PRE™ preamplifiers for the first time in a digital console, which facilitates support for live music and events where full set up changes need to be made on the fly.

There are a total of 48 inputs on the TF5 and TF3, with 40 on the TF1, including dual stereo analog/USB digital inputs and dual returns. Advanced live recording features include up to 34 x 34 channel recording and playback via USB 2.0 and 2 x 2 with a USB storage device. All of this, plus seamless operation with high-performance I/O racks, makes the TF series an outstanding choice for a wide range of applications.

TouchFlow Operation is a new approach to console control that combines elements of Yamaha’s well-regarded user interfaces with an advanced touch panel system, allowing mix engineers to respond to the music and artists on stage with unprecedented speed and freedom. Experienced engineers and newcomers alike will find it easier than ever to achieve the ideal mix.

A number of TF series features also contribute to a faster, smoother setup. 1-knob COMP and 1-knob EQ features make it easy to dial in perfect sound via a single rotary control on inputs for adjusting individual sources and on outputs for overall sound control. The innovative GainFinder feature facilitates optimum gain setup for individual input signals, making ideal overall signal quality easily achievable.

The TF mixers also provide a range of input and output channel presets created in cooperation and consultation with leading microphone manufacturers such as Shure, Sennheiser and Audio-Technica, as well as accomplished engineers. The input channel presets are made to match a span of musical instruments and voices, covering parameters such as head amp gain, EQ, dynamics and much more, right down to details like channel name and color. Output channel presets include parameters optimized for in-ear monitors and Yamaha powered speakers, with variations to match different environments and room sizes. This is a huge advantage for novice users, while experienced engineers will appreciate the enhanced speed and efficiency of operation.

Augmenting the consoles, separate software applications allow for wireless mixing, personal monitor mixing and offline set up with TF series consoles. The TF Editor, TF StageMix and MonitorMix applications feature user interfaces that seamlessly extend the consoles’ own capabilities on any compatible device.

The new TF Series also features powerful processing and effects; in addition to parametric EQ and dynamics processors on each channel, TF consoles offer eight processors for wide-ranging sonic control. Two of these are globally accessible and feature the same type of Yamaha SPX processors that have become an industry standard in recording and live sound applications. The remaining six processors are available in the AUX 9/10-19/20 master channels. The AUX 1-8 buses and main output channels include the same four-band parametric EQ as provided on the input channels, plus 31-band Flex12 GEQ.

All Yamaha TF models include a slot for an optional NY64-D I/O expansion card that allows transmission and reception of up to 128 channels (64 in/64 out) via a Dante audio network. Used in conjunction with Yamaha’s new Tio1608-D I/O Rack, it becomes possible to create an exceptionally versatile and expandable stage box system with up to 48 inputs and 24 outputs.

An optional RK5014 Rack Mount Kit will also be available for mounting the TF1 console in a standard 19-inch EIA equipment rack.

Yamaha Adds Speakers to VXC Line Up
The addition of four new models to the Commercial Installation Solutions (CIS) VXC Series ceiling speaker lineup making their debut at InfoComm 2015. The VXC3F, VXC3FW, VXC5F, and VXC5FW feature an extremely low profile, but designed specifically for high-quality BGM playback.

Yamaha VXC Series ceiling speakers are highly regarded for their excellent music reproduction quality as well as their clarity for announcements in restaurants, retail outlets, hotels, airport PA systems- anywhere background music is an essential feature.

The depth of the back of the box has been reduced compared to the standard VXC4, VXC6, and VXC8 models, providing even greater installation freedom and flexibility. Like the standard types, the VXC F models support both low-impedance and high-impedance operation, and include a number of features that contribute to faster, safer installation.

“The VXC Series is a popular choice for commercial installations, states Marc Lopez, Marketing Manager, Yamaha Professional Audio Division. While inheriting the excellent sound quality of the standard models, the VXC F models feature a low profile for more flexible installation, allowing our customers to create high-quality sonic environments that will satisfy a wider range of individual needs.”