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View the winners of the 2024 PLASA Awards for Innovation...
Glensound: GTM Mobile
The Glensound GTM Mobile is the new addition to the GTM range which specifically addresses the requirements of live tournament eSports. The GTM Mobile adds key features required for games that run on mobile devices, creating a world first truly unique interface. A direct hardwired connection to the mobile device enables seamless two-way data transmission without relying solely on wi-fi, along with high-speed device charging, all possible via PoE+ power. All the features of the standard GTM are present, including direct connection for the gamers’ headsets with twin multi-assignable headphone amplifiers, generation and sharing of the team talk mix, and multiple sources for the game audio.
Judges Comments
The Judges felt that this feature-rich unit has really addressed issues found in the live mobile eSports industry.
HIVE: Beeblade / Beebox Media Player
Step into the future of media playback with HIVE’s BeeBlade suite of products that promise unparalleled efficiency, convenience and power – a completely new way of approaching the work of a traditional media server.
The ground-breaking form factor allows for the player to be mounted directly into display hardware which eliminates the need for a complex and costly signal distribution network, or mounted in a standalone case or Beehive rack-mount enclosure.
Although small, the Beeblade does not cut corners on functionality, with a feature list comparable to systems costing 20 times the price or more.
Judges Comments
This device impressed the Judges with its flexibility and price point in bringing video servers to the wider market.
Ampetronic & Listen Technologies: Auri™
Auri™ powered by Ampetronic and Listen Technologies, is the first Auracast™ broadcast audio-based solution for assistive listening. We have developed Auri™ to let venues and end users adopt Auracast™ broadcast audio technology now with both dedicated receivers and direct compatibility with newly emerging devices such as hearing aids, earbuds, headphones and mobile phones. Auri is a comprehensive Assistive Listening System (ALS) that sends high quality, multi-channel broadcast audio to Auracast compatible receivers and devices.
Judges Comments
The Judges felt that this is a product that is leading the field in audio accessibility and paving the way for future developments.
Fourier Audio: transform.engine
transform.engine brings Dante-connected studio-grade audio software plugins to productions and broadcasts around the world in a robust 2U rackmount server. It delivers ultra-low latency processing, whilst being compatible with the vast majority of VST3 plugins, and allowing multiple clients to share a single engine. With its patent-pending engine, plugin chains are isolated – should any plugin crash, the rest of the system remains unaffected, and the broken plugin chain is restarted immediately. transform.engine has already been used by major productions including Coldplay, Muse, Fred Again, Sam Smith, Dua Lipa and BBC’s 2024 Glastonbury Pyramid Stage global livestream.
Judges Comments
This is an elegant solution for the integration of studio technologies in live events with reliability and functionality at its core.
Astera: LunaBulb
LunaBulb Looks like a traditional bulb, but works like a professional luminaire. It is designed to meet filmmakers’ requirements for practicals on camera and to discover endless creative possibilities without disrupting event planners’ workflow. From delivering perfect skin tones and the same controls as any other wireless DMX fixture to intimate gatherings to grand events, LunaBulb offers intuitive control via your smart device, remote, or console. Let your creativity shine wherever there’s a lamp socket.
Judges Comments
This product combines a broad feature-set in a much-loved conventional aesthetic which impressed the Judges.
Karno: SEPIA
SEPIA, by Karno, is a brand new, digitally controlled, modular analogue hardware platform bringing genuine analogue designs into the modern workflow. Comprised of Modules, designed and built by well-loved audio brands, and Hosts, developed and manufactured by Karno, SEPIA addresses all the fallbacks of audio hardware, while utilising the perks of audio control software. Built for the rigours of modern touring, engineers can now implement their most sought-after sound processes with confidence and ease. Being digitally controlled brings a whole new feature set to analogue audio, making SEPIA a tool for the modern workflow.
Judges Comments
This impressed the Judges for enabling classic analogue outboard effects to be used in the digital world.
Robe: iBolt
iBOLT is a bright, bold, aerial effects light that enables lighting designers to turn the night sky into their stage. Visible from kilometres away, the big 300mm lens delivers wide shafts of light, colour and effects. Choose the powerful Sky Mode or reduced output Stage Mode for closer use.
Patented Innovations include SpectraBeam effects package and ScanGuard proximity detection to safely manage the 500W incoherent Phosphor Laser source, replacing traditional discharge searchlights at a fraction of their energy use.
Advanced motion stabilization, remote monitoring, and extreme cold IP65 operability, make iBOLT the choice for versatile, dramatic, safe, manageable lighting displays.
Judges Comments
This product was noted by the Judges for its range of features while addressing the hazards associated with the current generation of bright light fixtures.
d&b group: SustainSymphony
SustainSymphony is d&b group’s comprehensive service for sustainable event management, designed to support the green transition of the global live event industry. This ground-breaking cloud-based Software as a Service (SaaS) solution is uniquely tailored to the dynamic landscape of live event production. It goes beyond traditional carbon footprint tools, offering scalability in both breadth and depth. Unlike top-down approaches, which can be cumbersome and limiting, SustainSymphony adopts a bottom-up strategy, empowering event organisers to initiate projects and define sustainability goals collaboratively. It offers effortless carbon tracking, customised sustainability solutions, data-driven insights and transparent reporting for streamlined event planning.
Judges Comments
The Judges felt that this free tool promotes an open and collaborative approach to live event sustainability reporting.
The Sustainability Award goes to...
Vari-Lite: VL2600 SE
The VL2600 SE Series upgrades Vari-Lite’s iconic workhorse fixtures with a new light engine for even more output. Existing fixtures can be upgraded with a new engine, exemplifying why the VL2600 Series is the smart choice product with a sustainable future. The VL2600 Profile is, to date, one of the most popular Vari-Lite fixtures ever produced, and it’s possible to rent a VL2600 Series luminaire on every continent on the globe. The VL2600 SE Series maintains everything that makes the family of powerful, versatile fixtures so iconic. With the new light engine, the VL2600 SE Series fixtures are now also among the brightest in their class.
Judges Comments
The Judges found that the upcycling commitment and longer product lifecycles enabled by this product sets the benchmark for other manufacturers to follow.
Just missed out but with special commendations from the judges...
myStage: myStage
myStage is a cutting-edge virtual production platform designed for artists, content creators, and DJs. It enables users to create immersive performances with advanced special effects, including lights, lasers and more, using only a webcam and a green screen. The platform supports integration with DMX and MIDI devices, offering real-time control over effects. Additionally, myStage includes a marketplace for custom stages and is VR-compatible, allowing artists to engage their audience in a fully immersive experience. This innovative tool democratizes high-quality production, making professional-level features accessible to all.
Judges Comments
Commended for the amalgamation of software applications for increasing the accessibility of virtual performance to online DJs and similar users with minimal investment.
ROE Visual: TheOneCurve™ Lock
TheOneCurve™ Lock, a patented innovation, is engineered for curving LED panels like the Topaz and Ruby LED series. This unique lock allows for the creation of smooth, flawlessly curved LED walls with absolute accuracy and precision positioning as exact as 1 degree. Its hassle-free, user-friendly design enables quick adjustment of the curving degree prior to assembly, simply by rotating the integrated handle in the lock - no tools or force required. This exceptional feature ensures efficient and precise installation, making it a standout in design and functionality.
Judges Comments
The Judges commended this product for the design of its ergonomic mechanism and safety in operation when curving video walls.
Pro Tour Systems AS: PTS Alurack
Pro Tour Systems introduces the Alurack, an innovative aluminium rack system designed for the protection and transport of valuable equipment. Unlike traditional racks, the Alurack allows for easy rebuilding, repurposing, and repairing without full replacement. Developed with input from daily users, it features an integrated front shock-mount for enhanced equipment protection. Suitable for both air and road transport, the Alurack offers versatile solutions including cases, soft bags, and road cabinets. Combining durability, modularity, and user-centric design, the Alurack sets a new standard in equipment management and transportation.
Judges Comments
This is commended for the slick modular method of building custom 19" racks.