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The Shure PSM 900 wireless in ear monitor system is now available and ready to ship!

I am excited to report that I received word that I can start taking orders for the new PSM 900 and that the units will start shipping on March 1, 2010.

We design and build In Ear Monitor Systems. Call (615) 534-1190 Ext 2 or Email Me
to get started on your system today!

Although it is new to the market you will not be ‘rolling the dice’ on this new IEM system. I had the privilege seeing and listening to it at NAMM. My initial response was that it was extremely quiet, very tight low end and smooth high end. An already proven and rock solid RF technology based on the UHR wireless system, the PSM 900 will combine this reliability and a sound quality to propel this system to the new industry standard for in ear monitors.

I also had the privilege of testing the new Sennheiser 2000 series wireless system while mixing monitors on the 2010 CMA Awards. It was certainly one of the best sounding wireless in ear monitor systems I had ever heard to date. However, the price point on the system makes it out of reach for most users and a tough justification for most production companies. Mean while, there are rumblings going on about Shure’s new IEM system…

Let’s face it, Shure in my opinion has not come out with an in ear system that has sounded good since the PSM 600. Which I still use and spec the P6HW for a wired IEM system today, it still rocks!. Fast forward to NAMM 2010 and the debut of the PSM 900. I stop by Shure to take a look and listen. The RF, features and functions are no doubt impressive but how’s it sound? Since then I personally know that it has been used by Creed, Pete Townsend on the Super Bowl and many, many others. In the words of Frank Sgambellone (FOH for Godsmack, Monitors for Alter Bridge, & many more) “Shure’s knocked it out of the park with this one.”

The new Shure PSM 900 is $1099.00 and we’ll ship it to you for FREE!

The PSM 900 system is currently available to ship with the following components.

P9T Transmitter

P9R Body pack receiver

SE425CL Sound Isolating TM Earphones shown (not included)

Hear are list of Features and Functions that will set it apart from the rest of the IEM systems on the market. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to Email Me.

PSM®900 Technology

CueMode (patent pending): Hear what the performer hears, with the touch of a button! With CueMode a monitor engineer can, with a single bodypack, flip through and audition up to 20 different mixes to check levels, balance or anything else needed to keep the show running smoothly. IR sync makes it easy to set up the different mixes the engineer wants to link to, and once set up the channels are easily stored, replaced or deleted for quick and efficient set up.
Scan and Sync: PSM®900 systems utilize Scan and Sync technology, which vastly improves efficiency and ease of setup. Group Scan analyzes the RF environment for interference and identifies the group with the highest number of available compatible frequencies. Sync communicates the results of the scan to the TX over IR link and assigns the identified group and channel. Channel scan can then be performed to find the next clear channel to use, which can then be synced to the next TX in your set up. The whole operation can be done within a few seconds, and results in the clearest channels to use for your monitoring set-up.
Robust Front-End RF Filtering: A feature of the bodypack RX, and based on the premium filtering technology of UHF-R® wireless microphone systems. PSM®900 systems use an extremely precise RF filter that rejects potential RF interference from signals outside the RX’s bandwidth BEFORE traveling to the RX itself.
Active RF Gain Control: Just like how too much audio input gain can distort an audio signal, too much RF signal can cause distortion or dropouts on a wireless PSM® system. Active RF Gain Control automatically reduces the receiver sensitivity for 31dB of additional RF dynamic range before an overload can affect the system, reducing dropouts due to receiver overload and preserving audio quality.
RF Mute Switch: A convenient on/off switch for enabling RF transmissionlocated on the front panel of the receiver. When switched to the off position, the user can perform set up operations, such as adjusting audio level and signal flow, or other actions without disturbing the current RF environment.
Audio Reference Companding (ARC): Companding is the process of compressing the audio signal prior to transmission and expanding it after reception. All pro audio wireless needs companding to deliver a wide dynamic range. Audio Reference Companding is a more efficient, level-dependent companding scheme. Instead of companding across the entire dynamic range like most wireless systems (causing a whooshing audio artifact known as “breathing”), companding only occurs at high audio levels. These levels are high enough to make the companding artifacts inaudible. The result is an improved wireless sound quality that sounds more natural, with less noise and greater dynamic range than other wireless systems – no artifacts, lower noise floor, clearer sound at all audio levels.
MixMode® Technology: Shure MixMode® Technology enables you to balance the level of two separate channels while simultaneously listening to both signals in both ears. Use the controls on your bodypack to set your own levels and create the mix you want—without affecting anyone else’s.
Separate Level and Clip Indicators: With personal monitor systems, audio signal can be too hot as it comes out from the mixing board and into the TX, and/or when it is sent from the TX to the RX, making it difficult to tell why the signal is distorted when it gets to the artist’s ears. PSM 900 TX’s have separate clip indicators for both level input and TX output to help determine if the signal needs to be adjusted at the board or at the TX.
Loop Out: Handy L/R outputs on the back panel of the receiver that can be used with MixMode to daisy-chain signal from one unit to another, out to monitor wedges, recording devices, or any other audio input.

Washington, DC (February 1, 2010)–Shure, Inc. is mobilizing the pro audio community in response to the Federal Communications Commission’s proposed expansion of Part 74 licensing eligibility for wireless microphones.

The FCC has set a very short deadline of February 20, 2010 for wireless microphone users to submit comments regarding the importance to them of wireless microphones, personal monitor systems, intercoms and wireless assist devices in their businesses and productions. The FCC hasn’t reviewed the rules for Part 74 of title 47, Code of Federal Regulations, under which wireless mics are classified, since 1977.

“They were written for TV networks and broadcasters,” explains Mark Brunner, senior director, brand management, for Shure. “They were the only people using wireless mics in 1977.”

RF mic usage has grown almost exponentially over subsequent decades. A bill–HR 4353–submitted to Congress by Rep. Bobby Rush (D-IL), proposes an expansion of the Part 74 rules to allow 13 sites of wireless microphone usage access to a geolocation database. The database is the FCC’s proposed solution to the sharing of the RF frequency spectrum used by wireless pro audio products and proposed new unlicensed TV band consumer devices.
The categories outlined by Rep. Rush include amusement parks, fairgrounds, restaurants and museums in addition to theaters, arenas, convention centers and churches. Shure, through spokesman Brunner, is stressing the urgency with which interested parties should submit their comments regarding their particular use of wireless audio products to the FCC.

“But we’re also recommending that anybody who might want to file and get some guidance contact Shure’s counsel in Washington, DC [Tim Bransford at Bingham McCutchen, LLP]. He’s up to speed on the issues and will help people put those comments into the proper format,” says Brunner.

The second order of business, says Brunner, is for professionals working with wireless mic products to encourage co-sponsorship of HR 4353. “They should contact their local representatives and say, ‘Take a look at HR 4353, it’s important to me.’”

Comments may be filed electronically with the FCC at http://fjallfoss.fcc.gov/ecfs

Tim Bransford, Bingham McCutchen, LLP
timothy.bransford@bingham.com

Shure, Inc.
www.shure.com

Buena Park, CA (February 4, 2010)–Yamaha Commercial Audio Systems, Inc. has announced a newaddition to the M7CL digital console product line: the M7CL-48ES.

Available in the spring of 2010, the desk’s main I/O interface is the SB168-ES remote stage box, which connects via a single Cat5 cable. The new console includes a built-in EtherSound interface with a third port for PC control and monitoring, eight Omni Ins (Mic/Line), eight Omni Outs, and three MY card slots. The M7CL-48ES supports up to three SB168-ES stage boxes and, like the M7CL-48, can mix up to 48 mono plus 4 stereo inputs to 16 Mix Buses, 8 Matrix Outs, Stereo and Mono Outputs. The new Stage Box Quick Set up feature provides plug-and-play connection of up to three SB168-ES units.

“Using the I/O within the SB168-ES stage boxes will provide end users with up to 48 remotely controllable mic preamps and 24 outputs,” states Kevin Kimmel, mixer product manager. Utilizing the onboard Omni Inputs and Outputs brings the number of mixable channels to 56 and 27 Outputs. “The M7CL-48ES is physically laid out much the same as the original M7CL-48, so for those users who are familiar with the M7CL, they will immediately feel comfortable on the new console.”

With the built-in EtherSound interface, the M7CL-48ES provides a digital network infrastructure while allowing the card slots to be used for other purposes, such as personal monitoring systems and recording outputs.

Because the new M7CL-48ES console runs the same software as standard M7CL consoles, there is direct file compatibility between all M7CL models. And, new Version 3 software updates, available in coming weeks, will include Direct Sends on Fader access from the M7CL knobs in Sends on Fader mode, Sends on Fader in M7CL Editor; new Recall Safe parameters (Input Patch, Output Patch, Direct Out Patch, Insert Out Patch); inclusion of VCM Effects (Comp 276/276s, Comp 260/260s, Open Deck, EQ601); additionally, Omni In 1-8 can be used for Talkback.

The new console consumes 50 percent less power (150w vs. 300w). Other new features include on board analog insertion via Omni In/Out and added Output Port Delay for each EtherSound output.

To learn more about the Yamaha M7CL-48ES visit our M7CL-48ES product page, Email JSS , or call (615) 534-1190.

Yamaha Commercial Audio Systems, Inc.
www.yamahaca.com

The Shure KSM313 ribbon microphone will blow you away!

Are you a guitar player looking to get into ribbon microphones?  Look no further. This microphone captures acoustic and electric guitars equally well and it also responds beautifully on percussion, drums and vocals.
The KSM313 features a “Dual-Voice” ribbon assembly that lets users choose from two different sound signatures.
Addressing the front of the mic delivers a warm, full sound that is ideal for many instruments while addressing the rear side offers a bright, articulate sound that complements vocals.

Traditionally ribbon microphones were not durable enough to handle high SPL applications and/or transient spikes due to the fragile foil ribbon element.
Not so anymore with the new Roswellite ribbon material Shure uses on their KSM313 and the KSM535. This material offers higher tensile strength and more resilient shape-memory properties than traditional foil ribbons allowing them to withstand very high sound pressure levels over extended periods of time without damage.

This versatile microphone performs well both in the studio as well as on stage.
So there it is: two ribbon mics in one.  It also comes with a unique mounting device and a mahogany storage box.

I had the opportunity to listen to the KSM313 on a session at 615 Music recording studio here in Nashville. They were using the mic of choice, an Shure SM57 for recording electric guitar and that sounded solid. I had them put the KSM313

in front of the guitar cab and then the guitar tone opened up. The engineer could not believe how much better it sounded. There were more extended high frequencies, yet it retained most of the fat low end. So from now on my first choice will definitely be the Shure KSM313 ribbon.

If you are interested in purchasing or listening to the Shure KSM313 ribbon microphone please contact:

John Castellanos
Account Manager
(615) 534-1190 Ext. 6
Email John

On January 15, 2010, the FCC released the long-awaited 700 MHz Report and Order (Revisions to Rules Authorizing the Operation of Low Power Auxiliary Stations in the 698-806 MHz Band) and Further Notice of Proposed Rule Making.  This document outlines a number of changes to the rules affecting  the operation and marketing of wireless microphones, in-ear monitors, production intercom systems, and related wireless equipment (which the FCC refers to collectively as “Low Power Auxiliary Stations”), and contemplates the future operation of these devices.

Summary of the FCC’s Revisions to Rules Authorizing the Operation of Low Power Auxiliary Stations in the 698-806 MHz Band

On January 15, 2010, the FCC released the long-awaited 700 MHz Report and Order (Revisions to Rules Authorizing the Operation of Low Power Auxiliary Stations in the 698-806 MHz Band) and Further Notice of Proposed Rule Making. This document outlines a number of changes to the rules affecting the operation and marketing of wireless microphones, in-ear monitors, production intercom systems, and related wireless equipment (which the FCC refers to collectively as “Low Power Auxiliary Stations”), and contemplates the future operation of these devices.

Clearing The 700 MHz Band

The spectrum between 698 and 806 MHz (known as the “700 MHz Band”) has been reallocated for exclusive use by Public Safety agencies and licensed wireless service providers (e.g. AT&T, Verizon, Qualcomm, and many local and regional providers).

Issues For Wireless Users

* Wireless system users-whether licensed or unlicensed-must stop operating in the 700 MHz Band (698-806 MHz) no later than June 12, 2010.

* Wireless system users must stop operating within 60 days of receiving notice that a Public Safety agency or licensed wireless service provider intends to begin using their licensed 700 MHz spectrum in that geographic area. This notice may come directly from the licensee or from the FCC.

* Wireless system users must stop operating in the 700 MHz Band immediately upon notification if they are causing interference to a licensed Public Safety or commercial user.

CONSUMER ALERT

Most users do not need a license to operate this wireless microphone system. Nevertheless, operating this microphone system without a license is subject to certain restrictions: the system may not cause harmful interference; it must operate at a low power level (not in excess of 50 milliwatts); and it has no protection from interference received from any other device. Purchasers should also be aware that the FCC is currently evaluating use of wireless microphone systems, and these rules are subject to change. For more information, call the FCC at 1-888-CALL-FCC (TTY: 1-888-TELL-FCC) or visit the FCC’s wireless microphone website at www.fcc.gov/cgb/wirelessmicrophones.

Call JSS to find out if your wireless microphone

uses frequencies in the 700 MHz band.

(615) 534-1190

Some wireless microphones are marked with the frequency the device uses. If information on the device indicates that it operates on frequencies between 698 and 806 MHz, then the device uses 700 MHz spectrum and may not be used after June 12, 2010.

In addition, the FCC’s website provides information about which wireless microphones currently operate in the 700 MHz band at www.fcc.gov/cgb/wirelessmicrophones/. Consumers may use this site to look up their equipment by manufacturer and determine if their particular equipment operates in the 700 MHz band. The website also includes information about how to contact manufacturers about wireless microphone equipment at www.fcc.gov/cgb/wirelessmicrophones/manufacturers.html. In addition, you may call the FCC at 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322) where staff will be able to help you determine if your equipment is affected.

This past week, Shure debuted it’s new PSM 900 wireless personal in-ear monitor system at the 2010 winter NAMM convention. Boasting better RF performance and sonic quality than any other wireless in-ear monitor system on the market. I spoke with Geno, a Shure engineer at NAMM about their new system. He described the feature packed bells and whistles of the system. Of which many of us have become spoiled with; allowing us to efficiently program multiple wireless systems. Features such as infrared sync and group/channel scanning. The PSM 900 takes these features to another level. In under 5 seconds, I was able to scan the entire group and lock in those frequencies! Another 2 seconds and it was synced via infrared, very cool!

I really like the P9R bodypack. It’s small and lightweight but does not feel fragile. It is actually made of metal! According to Shure it’s the thinnest personal monitor bodypack available. One feature which is worth the price of admission alone, especially to us monitor engineers is CueMode. CueMode can be enabled on any bodypack and gives the ability to select and monitor up to 20 different mixes without the need of additional equipment. You can actually monitor the audio you’re transmitting without the coloration of a consoles cue section electronics and yes, that means you’re also monitoring the RF! Another cool feature is the ability to mute the PSM 900 RF. This allows you to scan and program your system while other bands are performing. Without interfering with other RF systems being used. The effects of inter-modulation are greatly reduced by the precision front-end RF filtering of the PSM 900. Up to 20 compatible frequencies per 36 Megahertz frequency range are possible.

I haven’t had a chance to field test it, which is the only true way to give a piece of gear the thumbs up or down I did however take a listen to it at the Shure booth during NAMM. The program being played was unfamiliar but in trying to focus on the sonic quality of the system my initial reaction was that it did seem light years ahead of previous wireless PSM systems. The low end seemed tight and punchy and the noise floor was very low. The price point for the new PSM 900 is about $1000.00 and should start shipping mid-2010.

Not having network capability is a HUGE drawback with today’s coordination that is required for multi-RF systems. Despite that, the system can be managed quickly and easily so all and all it seems to be a great system.  I can’t wait to take it for a test drive to see what it sounds like out in the trenches. Stay tuned…

Jason Spence – Owner

jason@jss.net

(615) 534-1190 Ext. 2

This past week JSS owner Jason Spence visited Anaheim California for the 2010 NAMM convention. There was no shortage of gear and gadgets to see and hear and the convention seemed to be well attended by both manufacturers and visitors. Highlights included the debut of the new PSM900 wireless personal in-ear monitor system from Shure, the ProCo RA1 REAMP, new microphones from Audio-Technica and Neuman, and the recently released Fireface UC from RME. In the coming days we will be posting our videos from the NAMM show so stay tuned. We are offering special pricing on all microphones and many other products including the Fireface UC. Pre-order the ProCo RA1 and be one of the first to receive this very cool, inexpensive devise that anyone with a recording system should have and can afford. Of course by pre-ordering the RA1 we’ll knock a couple bucks off for you!

Email your order or questions to sales@jss.net or call us anytime (615) 534-1190

Visit JSS at “Next Big Nashville” music festival and conference.

What began as a simple showcase for Nashville’s mushrooming music scene in 2006, NBN has quickly grown into a nationally recognized music festival and conference. Providing a deserving spotlight to the depth and diversity of the music and business “Made in Music City,” NBN now serves as an annual destination for artists, innovators and business leaders in the creative community.

JSS will be sponsoring the panel “What’s Next for Nashville?” We will have our booth set up Wednesday , October 7 from 10 a.m. until 5:15 p.m. Stop by our booth for FREE Swag, Special NBN Prices on all Headphones, Earphones and even Custom In-Ear Monitor products and information about JSS.

The panel we’re sponsoring is “What’s Next for Nashville?” – representatives from the Nashville Music Business Council and other Community Leaders discuss both daring dreams and concrete plans for Music City’s future and take your questions and suggestions on what should be next for Nashville.

Day: Wednesday, Oct. 7
Time: 11:15am-12:15pm
Moderator: Jason Moon Wilkins (Next BIG Nashville)

Panelists:

• Jim Hester (Nashville Mayor’s Office)
• Rod Essig (CAA)
• Janet Miller (Nashville Chamber of Commerce)
• Butch Spyridon (President, Nashville CVB)
• Elin Mulron (Digital Nashville)
• Marcus Whitney (CTO, Moontoast)

The conference is at the Blair School of Music – The Martha Rivers Ingram Center for the Performing Arts at Vanderbilt University | 2400 Blakemore Ave | Nashville, TN 37212

Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau 700 MHz Public Safety Spectrum

The 700 MHz Band comprises 108 megahertz of spectrum from 698-806 MHz and is designated for commercial and public safety uses. Currently, this spectrum is occupied by TV broadcasters in Channels 52-69. Congress has directed that TV broadcasters transition to digital broadcast technology and vacate the spectrum in order to accommodate wireless commercial and public safety uses of the spectrum. The Digital Television and Public Safety Act of 2005 (DTV Act) set a firm deadline of June 12, 2009, for the completion of the DTV transition. In July 2007, the Commission adopted the 700 MHz Second Report and Order that adopted a regulatory framework for the 700 MHz public safety band to facilitate the establishment of a nationwide, interoperable broadband communications network for the benefit of state and local public safety users.

What does this mean? It is no longer legal to operate a wireless system in the 700MHz bandwidth.

That’s the bad news. The good news is that manufacturers are offering rebates of up to $1000 toward updating your wireless system but TIME IS RUNNING OUT. Take advantage of these rebates before it’s too late.