Located in Takapuna on Auckland’s North Shore, the Bruce Mason Centre is one of the region’s premier venues for the performing arts, offering a diverse range of events.

With a seating capacity of over 1,100, it features tiered seating that can be reconfigured into an open-floor space for gala dinners or cocktail receptions, hosting everything from family entertainment and dance performances to live music and comedy shows.

After 20 years of operation, the theatre’s previous system was no longer sufficient to meet the demands of the venue’s evolving event schedule, prompting the decision to upgrade. After careful evaluation, a JBL VTX A6 system was chosen for its compact yet powerful format and flexible rigging system, which simplifies speaker repositioning due to the A Series’ industry-leading design.

The two-year upgrade, delivered by JPRO in consultation with the Auckland Live technical team, included installing new Crown I-Tech 43500HD amplifiers, under balcony fills and rewiring the entire system.

The array design and performance predictions were carried out using JBL’s Venue Synthesis 3D Acoustic Simulation software.

“The platform enables precise angle prediction, system tuning and delay time optimisation for each loudspeaker position,” says Tim Robertson, Tour Sound Manager with JBL Professional distributor JPRO. “It is remarkably accurate compared to real-world performance, significantly streamlining live tuning and system commissioning.”

The upgraded system now includes two flown arrays, each consisting of 12 x VTX A6 dual 6-inch line array elements. Using JBL’s ArrayLink mobile app which integrates seamlessly with the Venue Synthesis 3D Acoustic Simulation software, JPRO developed six system presets to streamline deployment. With the combination of ArrayLink and the VTX A Series’ quick-rigging system, the arrays can be scaled, repositioned and ready to operate in under 30 minutes, depending on event requirements.

Twelve VTX B18 arrayable 18-inch subwoofers are deployed in a cardioid configuration and can be either flown or ground stacked. For under-balcony coverage, eight JBL AC18 high-performance compact loudspeakers are discreetly positioned. The system is powered by Crown I-Tech 43500HD amplifiers, with audio management handled by BSS BLU-806 networked signal processors.

“The VTX rigging system delivers the flexibility and performance the venue needs for its varied event schedule,” said Lindsay Clements from the Bruce Mason Centre technical team. “The sound is really clean and holds up beautifully across different instruments and sources.”

Held from 22–24 October, the annual gathering brought together more than 9,000 audiologists, hearing aid specialists and AV professionals from around the world. Across 15,500 m² of exhibition space over 150 companies showcased their latest innovations, while seminars and tutorials explored the future of hearing technology with Auracast proving to be one of the most talked-about topics.

For the first time, the EUHA integrated Auracast into the event itself. In collaboration with Humantechnik, AUDIOropa and Bettear, the system was deployed throughout the congress, allowing attendees to tune into live sessions in either German or English directly through compatible devices. The setup eliminated the need for traditional Telecoil areas and gave users full freedom to choose where they sat.

The technology also powered real-time translations in the exhibition’s “Live Area,” where EUHA President Beate Gromke opened the event. Her keynote, delivered in German and the translation simultaneously streamed in English via Bettear’s Auracast solution, highlighted the accessibility and flexibility of the new audio format.

“Based on Bluetooth LE Audio, Auracast allows one transmitter to broadcast to countless receivers, much like a radio station,” Gromke noted. “It’s an innovation that not only enhances events like this but also expands social participation for people with hearing loss.”

Following widespread interest and positive feedback, EUHA described Auracast as “the talk of the town,” citing its low latency, individual sound control and potential to transform audio accessibility in public spaces such as airports, cinemas and transport hubs.

With its seamless integration and impressive performance, made possible through Bettear’s collaborative work, Auracast made a strong case for being the next big step in connected audio, leaving many visitors eager to bring the technology into their own environments.

Our Experience of Auracast at EUHA… So Far

By Phil Creighton

By lunchtime on day one, we’d already experienced Auracast in three different settings; the opening ceremony, press tour and a lecture hall. It’s safe to say the technology impressed us from the outset. All of this was made possible through Bettear’s Auracast system, which was deployed across key areas of the congress.

During the opening event, some of the translators, themselves deaf, listened to the German address via Bettear’s Auracast stream sent directly to their hearing devices. They then relayed the translation through a Bettear B-RTX transmitter, which we received on our ReSound Vivia hearing aids. This setup was remarkable for two reasons: first, Bettear successfully configured two separate Auracast streams — one in German and one in English, without any cross-interference; and second, the translators’ skill in listening to one language via Auracast and instantly voicing another live was extraordinary.

Audio clarity was consistently strong, even against the bustle of the congress. In the Live Area, background chatter was present but the speech remained intelligible. On the exhibition tour, the sound was cleaner, and we could follow the English translation with ease. The lecture hall, with its soundproof booths and podium microphones, delivered the best overall quality — crisp, full, and remarkably natural.

What stood out most was Auracast’s versatility. It handled large, noisy spaces with thousands of people effortlessly, delivering a clear stream directly to our hearing aids – something traditional tours simply can’t achieve for those with hearing loss. When we switched Auracast off, the difference was stark: despite standing just a few feet from the speaker, ambient noise made the talk unintelligible.

The entire system, powered by Bettear’s pebble-sized B-RTX transmitter, proved both portable and user-friendly. Connecting was as simple as scanning a QR code – quick, intuitive and ready to go within seconds.

Bettear’s real-world demonstration at EUHA showed exactly what Auracast can achieve in busy, real-world settings. It didn’t just showcase the future of hearing technology, it let us experience it firsthand.

The JBL Control Contractor Series includes wall mount, ceiling and pendant loudspeakers for all types of venues. This includes theme parks, sporting venues, shopping malls, conference/meeting rooms, lecture halls, retail stores, concourses, transit spaces, fill applications, audio for video and more.

Discover the range of installed audio solutions from the resources below and download the brand new JBL Control Contractor Brochure that includes the latest in high performance pendant loudspeakers, wall-mounted slimline speakers and landscape speakers with in-ground subwoofers.

Bettear, a leading manufacturer of assistive hearing technology, has announced the launch of its groundbreaking Auracast™ Suite following its recent Auracast™ certification. The suite features the B-CASTER streamer and B-RTX transceiver, complemented by companion devices such as the B-SmartHive charger and the B-PASS, which enables secure audio streaming in confidential environments. These innovative products not only enhance audio accessibility for the hearing impaired but are also designed to revolutionise how people experience sound in public spaces and beyond.

Bettear Auracast™ Solutions Packed with Advanced Features:

Bettear’s Auracast™ streaming technology ensures every listener can fully engage with the moment no matter the space. From conference halls and theatres to universities, worship spaces and public venues, Bettear delivers inclusive, high quality audio that elevates experiences, ensures every voice is heard and brings every visitor into the moment.

What sets Bettear apart is its ability to go beyond accessibility, providing Auracast™ and streaming solutions for:

• Live Audio Streaming
• Assistive Listening
• Tour Guiding
• Secure Audio in confidential spaces
• Speech-to-Text Optimisation
• Audio Personalisation (DAP)
• Translation and more

Bettear Auracast™ Suite:

Bettear’s Auracast™ product range is now available for demo and purchase across New Zealand. If you’re looking to enhance accessibility and create a more inclusive experience, our expert team is here to assist. Connect with us today to learn more and explore demo opportunities.

SITE REFERENCES | BROCHURE | REQUEST INFO/DEMO | VIDEO RESOURCES

Intellivox References New Zealand

Here is a reference list of some of the venues in New Zealand where JBL Intellivox beam shaping loudspeakers are used to enhance the audio experience for the listener. (updated January 2025)

INTERACTIVE AV SHOWROOM  |  HOME THEATRE SHOWROOM | DEMO FORM

Visit the interactive JPRO Showroom to experience cutting-edge audio, video and control solutions from JBL Professional, BSS Audio, AMX and more. We also feature the only JBL Synthesis-certified luxury custom cinema demo room in New Zealand, where you’ll experience sound so rich and immersive it feels as though the film is unfolding around you!

The JPRO Experience Centre is available by appointment only. Contact us or book your experience today!

Book Your Personalised Demo Today! | Get in touch with the JPRO team →

The Opportunity

In 2023, the Springboro branch undertook a major renovation project to overhaul its technological infrastructure. The initiative included the addition of a medium-sized conference room and large meeting room, enhancing the branch’s capacity for collaboration in the community.

The in-house technology team led by Chad Morris opted to install a complete HARMAN Professional AV system, consisting of JBL Professional COL Column and ceiling speakers designed around the AMX Jetpack, which was developed for small-to-medium meeting spaces.

The Solution

The AMX Jetpack provides simple-to-operate room controls, while offering multiple video inputs and enabling voice lift for clear communication with everyone in the space.

The JPK-1300 combines 4K60 4:2:0 HDMI and USB-C video switching and distance transport, room control, wallplate accessibility and audio amplification in a kit that requires zero programming.

It includes a three-input switching wallplate transmitter, a six-button keypad with volume control, and a multi-function receiver with built-in amplifier, USB signal pass-through, RS232 control, Relay, IR, mic/line input, line out, remote mute, audio de-embedding, USB-AUDIO, ARC function and CEC control.

Jetpack supports a wide range of classroom and meeting space applications and can be controlled through panel buttons, RS-232, Telnet, SSH, a Web GUI, and the Jetpack Manager application.

The Impact

“The biggest wow factor with this project was how trouble free it was,” says Morris. “I’ve been an IT professional for 16 years and some projects present obstacles along the way. This one, for the most part was straightforward.

“During the installation, I had to contact the AMX engineer a few times with some basic questions, but they gave me all the information I needed. Overall, it went smoothly for a larger project. I am not an AV expert. I figure if I can do it, pretty much anybody can do it.”

Morris adds: “With Jetpack, you can get a high-end product with cost-effective solutions. Libraries don’t have the budgets big companies do. We need to deliver to the public good, top-of-the-line, cutting-edge technology – but without breaking the bank. Jetpack is the perfect solution for that.”

“The response to the Jetpack has been awesome. What staff and patrons like about it is that you just plug it in and it works. Its simplicity is what makes it great.”

These universal control extender boxes provide a secure, professional-grade solution for interfacing with analogue or digital devices over the network. They are PoE powered, with a small footprint for easy installation and concealment. As a network device, they extend the reach of control processors well beyond the limits inherent in point-to-point connections.

Key features

• Open API
• Built in web interface
• Compact, PoE Powered
• Infrared, Relay, I/O, and Serial Options

Four models include CE-IO4 (4 I/O Ports), CE-IRS4 (4 IR/S Ports), CE-REL8 (8 Relays) and CE-COM2 (2 Serial Ports)

COMMON APPLICATIONS

CE Series Universal Control Extenders are ideal additions to any control system that supports IP connectivity. An open control API makes it simple to integrate these boxes with any IP-capable control systems or apps, and the integrated web interface enables configuration without specialised applications. CE Series can provide hardware control and integration to devices that that are not on the network, such as motorised screens and blinds, motion and occupancy sensors, lighting dimmers and consumer AV components. These professional-grade devices can extend the reach of control systems in corporate spaces, colleges and universities, and government facilities with security requirements that may disqualify similar solutions from other manufacturers.

HARMAN Professional Solutions was recently awarded the Joint Interoperability Testing Command (JITC) certification and listing on the Department of Defence Information Network (DoDIN) Approved Products List (APL) for 66 AMX products. The certified products include 4K60 DGX Modular Switching Systems, 4K60 DVX All-In-One Presentation Switchers, Control Processors, Touch Panels, Keypads, and I/O extenders.

JITC certification is a crucial requirement for technology solutions used in U.S. Government facilities. It is the only non-service operational test agency for Information Technology and National Security Systems. This certification ensures that products meet strict security standards and can seamlessly integrate with other systems used by the U.S. Department of Defence. The certification process includes a thorough evaluation of a product’s security features, performance, and interoperability.

AMX by HARMAN AV product security highlights:

• Role Based Access Control (RBAC)
  • Integration with Microsoft Active Directory
  • Two-factor authentication
    • Common Access Card (CAC) and Personnel Identification Verification (PIV) Card reader enabled
  • Programmable access control with Two-factor authentication available at the touch panel UI
• Security logs in SYSLOG
• FIPS 140-2 compliant encryption
• TLS based control protocol (ICSPS)
• SSH and TLS control of third party devices
• Certificate based Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)
  • Online Certificate Status Protocol (OCSP) and Certificate Revocation List (CRL) support
• Port based security (802.1x)
• Isolated ICSLan for control and management of non-secure devices
• Code Hashing

Australia Department of Defence Accreditation

Closer to home, Australia ICT Security Branch and Head ICT Operations have granted AMX by HARMAN formal certification and accreditation for direct connection to the Defence Restricted Network (DRN) in Defence Audio Visual Environments.

New Zealand JITC Accredited Solutions

JPRO provides a range of products and solutions that meet the stringent security standards of JITC. Our brands can be found in New Zealand Government Ministries, Courtrooms with Video Links to Remand Centres and Prisons, Command Centres and other Government Institutions. Reliable, trusted and proven secure, they are modular and scalable to meet the needs of these facilities as their requirements change over time.

If you are considering an AV-over-IP video, audio or control solution for your project, contact our team of experts in New Zealand who can provide information, project designs and support needed to implement a robust, secure platform. Learn more about our Government solutions here.

The Opportunity

Wellington based integrator Audio Workshop recently installed a networked audio system and turnkey HARMAN Professional solution at the Australian High Commission facility in Wellington, New Zealand.

The Australian High Commission (AHC) acts as the Australian government’s official agency in New Zealand. In addition to providing a range of diplomatic services to the public, including passport, immigration, citizenship and cultural relations. In addition, the AHC represents Australia’s interests to government and business organisations in New Zealand.

A dedicated event space in the facility allows the AHC to host numerous events and meetings throughout the year. The AHC event space consists of four individual rooms that can accommodate multiple events simultaneously or be combined for large events.

The Solution

To ensure maximum intelligibility, versatility and ease-of-use during a wide range of events, the AHC hired Audio Workshop to upgrade their aging sound system with a complete HARMAN Professional Solutions networked audio system consisting of JBL, BSS and AKG solutions.

Audio Workshop relied on a selection of JBL speakers to ensure optimum coverage and clarity in the AHC event space. JBL CBT 70J-1 column speakers provide consistent coverage while minimising room reflections and reverberation from the atrium’s high ceilings. JBL Control 16CT in-ceiling loudspeakers deliver premium speech intelligibility and high quality music playback in four meeting rooms, while Control 29AV-1 speakers offer additional power and directivity for film and video presentations.

The venue required wireless microphones to cover all areas to ensure maximum coverage with speech intelligibility. Audio Workshop specified a multi-channel AKG WMS470 wireless microphone system with distributed antennas to ensure no signal dropout during events.

The entire system is controlled by a BSS Soundweb London BLU-100 signal processor, which can be configured to function independently in each room, or as a single time-aligned system when the rooms are combined. Finally, BSS Contrio EC-8BV wall controllers enable intuitive source selection and volume control in each room, while HARMAN’s HiQnet protocol allows the entire system to be controlled with any WiFi-equipped device.

System Features

• BSS SOUNDWEB BLU-100
• BSS CONTRIO EC-8BV wall controllers
• JBL CBT-70J loudspeakers
• JBL CONTROL 16CT ceiling speakers
• JBL CONTROL29AV speakers
• AKG WMS470 Wireless Microphones and antenna distribution system

The Impact

“We asked Matt Chapman of Audio Workshop to provide a full analysis of our previous system and recommend solutions to optimise the audio quality with a true world-class system,” said Jonathan Pawley, AV & IT Manager, Australian High Commission. “We’re very happy with the new HARMAN system, expertly installed to Matt’s specifications – it certainly exceeded all of our expectations.”

“We’re pleased to be involved with the audio installation in Australian High Commission’s event space,” said Matt Chapman, Managing Director, Audio Workshop. “We strive to understand our clients’ needs and provide them with robust solutions that satisfy their current requirements and leave plenty of room for future expansion. We’re thrilled to see the HARMAN system has accomplished the AHC’s goals and surpassed their expectations.”

The Opportunity

The University of Auckland Business School, one of the country’s premier institutions for business education, has upgraded its lecture halls with cutting-edge JBL Intellivox Beam Shaping Column Array loudspeakers, dramatically improving sound quality across its facilities. The Business School’s renowned lecture spaces, housed within the award-winning Sir Owen G Glenn Building, now boast superior acoustic performance, ensuring clear, intelligible audio for every student, even in the largest and most acoustically challenging rooms.

The Sir Owen G Glenn Building, the largest teaching space in New Zealand, houses several state-of-the-art lecture theatres that are known for their design-driven approach to enhancing both teaching and learning. However, despite their modern design, the space faced some acoustic challenges that hindered speech clarity, particularly in the large 500-seat lecture halls. To address these concerns, the University sought an audio solution that would enhance voice reproduction while overcoming the difficult acoustics of the venue.

The Solution

Systems integrator Provision and the University were tasked with finding a solution that would provide excellent coverage and speech intelligibility across the venue. The primary challenge was designing a system that would focus sound where it was needed, while minimising the impact of unwanted reflections from walls, ceilings and other surfaces that could degrade audio quality.

In consultation with local distributor JPRO, it was decided that column array technology would be the ideal loudspeaker solution for the venue. The team selected JBL’s advanced Intellivox Beam Shaping Column Array loudspeakers, which feature innovative technology to direct sound precisely to the audience areas. This design minimises acoustic reflections and ensures consistent sound coverage from front to back throughout the space.

Delivering Clarity Across Large Spaces

The JBL Intellivox-DSX280 HD loudspeakers were specified for the Business School’s largest lecture halls, which have a capacity of 500 students. Capable of providing constant sound pressure levels over distances up to 35 metres, the sleek Intellivox-DSX280 HD columns deliver clear full-range audio from the front of the lecture theatre to the rear, ensuring that every student can hear the lecturer clearly.

“We needed a solution that would offer direct sound to the listeners while minimising reflections,” said Paul Edlin, Audio Designer and Sales Director at JPRO. “The Intellivox loudspeakers’ beamforming technology allowed us to focus sound precisely where it was needed. The results are excellent, particularly in terms of speech intelligibility.”

In addition to the large lecture halls, smaller theatres and the building’s foyer were equipped with JBL’s CBT 1000 series line array column speakers. The CBT (Constant Beamwidth Technology) provides exceptional coverage, delivering clear and consistent audio across a variety of room sizes and acoustic conditions.

A Sound Revolution

While the upfront cost of the JBL Intellivox system may initially appear high, Edlin emphasised its long-term value. “When you factor in the complexity of installing multiple ceiling-mounted speakers, delay lines, DSP and additional labour costs, the Intellivox is not only a more effective solution but a cost-saver in the long run,” he explained. “It’s a time and budget saver, providing excellent coverage and intelligibility while reducing installation time and costs.”

The decision to switch to JBL’s column array technology was a game-changer for the University of Auckland Business School’s AV team. “We’ve come full circle with the loudspeaker technology used in these facilities,” said a spokesperson from the University’s AV team. “Initially, we relied on rows of ceiling-mounted speakers to handle the sound coverage for the 500 seats. However, we struggled with the acoustics of the space and it was difficult to achieve consistent clarity across the room.”

“Once we heard the difference with the JBL column array speakers, we knew immediately that we had found the right solution. The Intellivox and CBT loudspeakers were the perfect fit for our needs, and they saved us significant time and money in both installation and labour costs.”

The Opportunity

Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre is now firmly established as New Zealand’s premiere meeting and events venue. Identified as one of the anchor projects for the Christchurch Central Recovery Plan after the destruction of the previous convention centre by the 2011 earthquakes, Te Pae Christchurch was officially opened in December 2021 after years of planning, construction and pandemic delays.

New Zealand’s first convention centre to meet international standards, Te Pae has capacity to host 2000 delegates and has already attracted interest for national and international business events, with more than 100 events confirmed in its first year of operation.

The precinct includes riverside banquet rooms, a large exhibition hall, flexible meeting spaces and a 1400-seat auditorium. To complement the magnificent architecture, Te Pae is outfitted with state-of-the-art audio-visual and ICT solutions to allow their clients to create memorable experiences.

The Solution

To achieve Christchurch’s vision of what an international convention centre should be in terms of technology, Audio-Visual integrators TenFour were appointed to provide a complete AV solution in three separate buildings. This integration included background music systems, outdoor advertising screens, an Emergency Warning and Intercommunication System as well as a complete digital signage system.

Planning for the centre’s digital signage included a centre-wide, fully integrated digital signage solution consisting of LED screens, projectors and LCD panels. A requirement was that the centre’s digital signage system should provide flexible content for any event, including custom content management for branding, advertising, or visual impact opportunities and the ability to broadcast live TV.

Due to its ability to manage, schedule and play content in just a few clicks, giving real time access to content in large venues, TenFour selected the Tripleplay Signage and IPTV platform to achieve the client’s objectives. Tripleplay gives the Te Pae operator the ability to easily record or stream content from the Auditorium venue-wide, simply by initiating it on the touch panels in the Auditorium spaces. Content is stored on the Tripleplay servers to be edited and distributed as required.

The Impact

Nathan Roche, TenFour’s Sales and Marketing Director says, “This was the largest roll out we’ve done in New Zealand with over forty IPTV, digital signage and wayfinding screens installed across the site. We are stoked with the result and proud to have been part of this project, contributing to Christchurch’s success.”

The Opportunity

The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa in Wellington is an interactive, contemporary Museum and Convention Centre. With attractions for young and old, Te Papa is a must-visit for visitors to Wellington – one of the world’s leading travel sites Tripadvisor lists the facility in the Top 25 Museums of the World while Lonely Planet rates it in the Top 500 Places on Earth.

New Zealand’s National museum is more than just a museum, it is a multi-purpose facility with numerous venues spanning six levels, including multiple conference, convention and meeting spaces for hire. The facility relies on the latest technologies to enable cutting-edge interactive exhibitions, immersive short term shows and successful conferences.

A variety of Harman Professional audio solutions are deployed within the complex to provide a premium immersive experience, including JBL Professional Loudspeakers, Crown Amplifiers, BSS networked audio processors and controllers as well as Soundcraft mixing consoles.

The Solution

Te Papa’s Technology Solutions Team recently implemented a large Dante distribution network. With so many rooms and systems being used by visiting AV Technicians and commercial clients, it was essential to have a system that could manage the hardware and audio streams in an efficient and secure manner.

After consulting with JPRO’s Technical Design Team, it was recommended that with the implementation of the Dante distribution network, the entire infrastructure should be managed through Dante Domain Manager (DDM).

“We opted for Dante Domain Manager as part of a building wide venue upgrade,” says Andy Allison, Technology Solutions Systems Engineer at Te Papa. “Prior to this upgrade we had not used any Dante products. With everything being IP based, the security of our network is extremely important, and we needed to ensure the integrity of our corporate data and the data of our commercial clients and guests.”

Dante Domain Manager allows the Te Papa team to utilise IT best practices within AV, with the ability to unify its systems, easily categorise and control audio streams, while managing user access to their Dante network.

And Allison continues, “We can manage our Dante equipment throughout the entire organisation with DDM. All Dante audio runs on a dedicated VLAN, we have 802.11X authentication servers that prevent any untrusted devices accessing our various VLANs.”

The Impact

“The experience of installing and configuring DDM in our environment has been seamless, with 14 venues divided into 6 Dante Domains plus a Global Domain,” says Andy Allison. “The system design allows users to route audio to and from any of our venues and public spaces, with managed switches in all locations. No venue switch is more than 2 hops from the core. Dante Domain Manager has really made our task of managing the Dante network easier and secure.”

“Without DDM a venue is at risk of its entire audio network infrastructure crashing due to external sources connecting to the network,” says JPRO’s design experts. “We are pleased we can bring added value and ease of mind to our customers, with DDM allowing for simplified site management and a secure audio network.”

NETGEAR has announced a strategic partnership with AMX by HARMAN, the industry pioneer in AV over IP technology. NETGEAR professional AV switches are now the recommended choice for all AMX AV over IP installations worldwide. AMX AV solutions are trusted globally across corporate, education and government applications, while AMX SVSI networked AV products represent more than 10 years of experience in the expanding AV over IP market, backed by the innovative power of Harman Professional Solutions.

AMX and NETGEAR partnered together to develop the M4250 Series Switch Profile, which ensures that any system that pairs AMX or other networked AV components and M4250 Series Switches, will function flawlessly without the need for any complex setup. After comprehensive testing, the AMX team verified that the NETGEAR M4250 and M4300 series of switches provide the best experience for their most discerning customers.

“Our AMX N-Series of networked AV products combined with the NETGEAR Pro AV switches provide a fantastic solution,” noted Jamie Trader, Vice President, Video and Control at HARMAN Professional Solutions. “In addition to the HARMAN Video and Control group, our Audio and Lighting groups will also benefit from the many features built into these switches – especially Power over Ethernet (PoE). No other switch manufacturer delivers the same performance and feature set.”

Additionally, AMX conducted comprehensive testing for compatibility with NETGEAR’s M4300 and M4500 Series Switches. This rigorous testing guarantees that even the most complex, campus-wide AV applications can be configured easily while delivering exceptional reliability.

M4250 Series Switches

AMX and NETGEAR worked together with input from the AV community, to develop NETGEAR’S M4250 Series Switch Profile which ensures that a system that pairs AMX or other networked AV components and M4250 Series Switches will work flawlessly without the need for any complicated setup.

Models with PoE+ and Ultra 90 PoE++ allow powering of AV endpoints and more. Built with NETGEAR IGMP Plus^™, Auto-LAG, and Auto-Trunk for automatic and dynamic configuration – even with multiple switches.

The easy-to-use AV interface helps integrators conquer the typically tedious AV over IP switch configurations. The installer need only select the protocol or vendor and then select the applicable ports. From there, the NETGEAR M4250 will automate the remainder of the configuration, resulting in less time spent on the network configuration and more time focusing on the other parts of the installation.

M4300 Series Switches

The widely respected M4300 series switches offer a variety of models to address customer’s port count and connectivity requirements. They can also be stacked, thus enabling larger AV configurations. NETGEAR IGMP Plus ensures robust multicast performance without fear of flooding the network. The M4300 is PoE+ capable, has a non-blocking backplane, and is designed to deliver superior multicast performance for a range of AV over IP protocols.

Wide Range of Applications

From conference rooms to college campuses to sports and performing arts venues, the NETGEAR M4250 and M4300 switches have already been proven around the world. The strategic relationship with AMX by HARMAN enables the most advanced AV solutions using IP technology.

Learn More

NETGEAR AV Managed Switches are available to purchase through JPRO, an official distribution partner in NZ.

Learn more about NETGEAR Pro AV products and services here.

Learn more about AMX SVSI AVoIP solutions here.

Over the last year, Audinate, the Blue Note Entertainment Group (of the iconic Blue Note Jazz Clubs) and Peltrix (an integration firm) collaborated on an industry-first demonstration for long-distance, networked audio-video links. In June of 2021, they demonstrated their solution linking three locations up to 1200 kilometres apart with multiple streams of Dante audio and Dante AV video links.

In this demonstration, system latency was so low, musicians were able to comfortably play together as if they were in the same room. No click tracks or guides were used, and timing was natural for performers. Dante AV played an important part in the demo, allowing musicians to see each other, taking visual cues, read body language and engaging with each other seamlessly. The products used are all commercially available today.

View Webinar

If you were unable to attend the webinar live, or would like to re-watch it, we have made the entire session available to watch on-demand. Watch the Peltrix takes Dante over Distance with the Blue Note Entertainment Group webinar here:

The Opportunity

With nearly 2,000 employees, the Ministry of Education is one of New Zealand’s largest government agencies, overseeing the nation’s education system. To accommodate their large staff with a professional and modern work environment, the Ministry of Education recently moved their headquarters to Mātauranga House, a previously occupied 12-story office building located at 33 Bowen Street. In order to distribute a wide range of audio and video sources to various destinations throughout the building, officials hired Futureworks to install a premium corporate AV control solution. Futureworks selected an array of AMX networked AV solutions to facilitate intuitive control over the sophisticated AV system.

“We required an AV system that could be integrated with our existing meeting room technologies,” said a spokesperson at New Zealand Ministry of Education. “The AMX networked AV system provided by Futureworks satisfied all our requirements, and its centralised platform makes it very easy for us to access, maintain and upgrade the system from anywhere in the building.”

The Ministry of Education’s AV platform is based on the centralised architecture of AMX’s Enova DGX 100 Series, which is deployed on the building’s existing network and integrated directly with the room booking system. Futureworks installed Enova DGX3200 and DGX6400 digital media switchers to manage and distribute a wide range of video and audio signals in analogue and digital formats. A comprehensive set of Enova DGX hot-swappable boards are utilised in conjunction with DGX transmitters and receivers to provide an end-to-end distribution network over shielded cable.

“The Ministry of Education asked us to supply a sophisticated AV solution to support their meeting room technologies,” said a spokesperson, Futureworks. “We chose AMX systems because they are end-to-end solutions that support a wide range of distribution formats, regardless of the application or distance between sources and destinations.”

Futureworks also included a NetLinx NX Integrated Controller to enable management of all sources and displays throughout the building. Modero MSD-701L and MST-701 touch panels offer intuitive local control of numerous analogue and digital inputs in conference rooms, meeting rooms and other spaces.

Additionally, Futureworks outfitted the meeting rooms with NMX-VCC-1000 cameras and MET-6NE Control Keypad to support high-quality video conferencing applications. Finally, the new AV system can be controlled from a single interface utilizing AMX Resource Management Suite Enterprise software, which improves the efficiency of meeting spaces and technology by allowing users to schedule meeting spaces and pre-configure room technologies for upcoming meetings.

“It’s an honour to be associated with the New Zealand Ministry of Education and for delivering technology that facilitates ideal meeting spaces,” said Ramesh Jayaraman, VP & GM, HARMAN Professional Solutions, APAC. “We would like to thank Futureworks and our New Zealand partners for trusting AMX to create seamlessly integrated workspaces, inspiring people to come together and collaborate with efficiency.”

The Opportunity

The Christchurch Justice and Emergency Services Precinct was the first major government building to be built in Christchurch after a series of devastating earthquakes destroyed the city centre in 2011.

Completed in late 2017, the Precinct was purpose-built with an emphasis on collaboration, bringing together all regional justice and emergency services. The precinct is home to the Ministry of Justice, New Zealand Police, Department of Corrections, St John Ambulance, Fire and Emergency, Civil Defence and Emergency Management services. The Justice Building houses 19 courtrooms and associated court and legal functions.

The Solution

Due to the critical nature of the services rendered by the agencies in the Precinct, reliable specially configured loudspeakers and microphones are needed to reproduce high quality audio.

Leading audio visual systems integrator and supplier of courtroom and chamber technologies, Vega Global (formerly Kodum), were contracted to design, supply and install robust cutting edge audio and visual systems within the Justice and Emergency Services Precinct.

System Features

• JBL Professional Control Contractor series ceiling and wall mounted loudspeakers achieve balanced sound quality and broad, consistent coverage throughout the indoor sections.
• Control 47LP low-profile ceiling speakers are utilised in the areas with limited above-ceiling clearance with JBL’s Radiation Boundary Integrator providing very consistent coverage throughout the listening area.
• Control 47HC loudspeakers with a well-defined narrow coverage pattern provide improved sound quality and intelligibility in reverberant and high ceiling spaces.
• A range of AKG gooseneck and boundary microphones are deployed in the 19 courtrooms providing exceptional sound reproduction through the sound reinforcement and audio visual recording systems.
• Across the Precinct, BSS Soundweb audio processors form an integral part of the audio management and audio distribution.

The Impact

“During the design and construction phase it was essential the audio visual systems would work within the complex IT infrastructure of the Justice and Emergency Services Precinct,” says James Thompson, Civil Defence New Zealand. “The systems are excellent. Kodum were key partners in establishing our audio visual needs and have walked with us every step of the way. Post commissioning they have been readily available to help with fine tuning the system.”

The DVX-3266-4K offers four HDMI inputs, four HDBT inputs and four HDMI scaled outputs, while the DVX-2265-4K offers four HDMI inputs, two HDBT inputs and two HDMI scaled outputs. Both new DVX presentation switchers are fully compatible with existing Enova DGX copper 4K60 transmitters and receivers, allowing an easy path for users to upgrade their systems.

“As AV technology continues to evolve rapidly, facility owners need flexible and scalable systems that enable the highest video resolution and audio fidelity,” said Jamie Trader, Vice President, Video & Control, HARMAN Professional Solutions. “The new DVX all-in-one presentation switchers will dramatically simplify AV control and distribution in medium-sized and large conference rooms, boardrooms, classrooms, lecture halls and auditoriums. With ultra-high resolution 4K60 video, legendary HARMAN audio quality, flexible I/O options and an intuitive user interface, DVX switchers provide more power and flexibility than ever before.”

New DVX all-in-one presentation switchers bring 4K60 4:4:4 capabilities to the DVX family, providing superior video resolution for critical viewing applications where fidelity is crucial. Compatible with HDMI 2.0 and DXLink 4K60 copper transmitters and receivers, new DVX presentation switchers enable 4K60 video distribution over long distances using a standard Cat 5e or Cat 6 cable. With HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2 support, users can realize the full potential of their source and display devices, resulting in the highest possible video quality.

Models

DVX-2265-4K

6×2+1 4K60 4:4:4 All-In-One Presentation Switcher (4 HDMI Inputs, 2 DXLink-4K60 Inputs)

DVX-3266-4K

8×4+2 4K60 4:4:4 All-In-One Presentation Switcher (4 HDMI Inputs, 4 DXLink-4K60 Inputs)

Availability

AMX is supported and distributed in NZ by JPRO. DVX-4K60 presentation switchers are now available in New Zealand.

Maritime NZ has a vital role in national security. Its purpose is to ensure that all maritime activities are carried out safely, with minimal impact on the environment and the nation’s security. The Risk Coordination Centre in New Zealand (RCCNZ) provides search and rescue services to the third largest area in the world, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

While planning the construction of a new Risk Coordination Centre, Maritime NZ reached out to New Era (formerly Asnet) for help relocating their existing AV system to the new facility. However, after evaluating the risks involved with moving an aged system, they quickly decided to upgrade to a more modern, flexible technology solution that could adapt to their unique needs. New Era selected an AMX SVSI Networked AV solution — one of the first of its type to be deployed in New Zealand.

“Looking at the current Risk Coordination Centre, we realised that we needed a new system that could adapt to the future developments of Maritime NZ, and the AMX SVSI system was the best possible solution for our needs,” said Paul Thompson, Account Manager, Asnet Technologies. “We needed the ability to switch any input to any output across their environment. The AMX SVSI solution was able to provide us with the flexibility, functionality, and scalability we needed to get the job done.”

Maritime NZ is responsible for land, air and sea rescue coordination — which meant the installation of the new AV system needed to be completed quickly to prevent disruption in operations. Leveraging SVSI’s simple installation the Asnet team took only three days to deploy the solution. This worked within the tight timeframe, ensuring that the risk coordination centre was never offline.

“Our 10-year old video solution was obsolete — and an AV solution is critical for us,” said Aaron Mikoz, CIO Maritime NZ. “With the new AMX SVSI solution, we can now work faster, smarter and safer. During search-and-rescue operations, we can see key information displayed on the screen, providing us with a better understanding of the situation without having to depend on complicated briefings.”

New Era installed AMX touch panels with integrated controllers to integrate the audio system with other AV devices and the AMX N1000 Video Over IP Encoder/Decoders as part of a full AV solution. To be able to address larger groups of people, JBL surface mount and pendant speakers were positioned to reduce audio spill into other areas. The system allows the new and improved RCCNZ to distribute media leveraging common network switches in any size and configuration.

“To be associated with Maritime NZ and to provide effective technologies in AV and control products is a privilege for Harman Professional Solutions,” said Ramesh Jayaraman, VP & GM Harman Professional Solutions, APAC. “We would like to thank New Era (formerly Asnet Technologies) for successfully completing this project within a tight schedule of three days, ensuring zero downtime. To be able to implement mission-critical AV applications for a defence agency is an absolute honour.”