Major Audiovisual Upgrade at The LeTourneau University Belcher Center

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Major Audiovisual Upgrade at The LeTourneau University Belcher Center

Longview, USA, September 5, 2023 – Solotech and The LeTourneau University Belcher Center are excited to announce the successful completion of major technological upgrades to the performance center. The new audiovisual equipment, installed over the summer, is set to debut for the 2023-2024 live events season and will significantly improve the audience experience for the wide variety of events hosted at the Belcher Center.

The installation of new audio and video gear makes the Belcher Center a premiere destination for live performances, chapel services, lectures, screenings, and exciting experiences tailored to the local public.

Cody Bowen, Senior Director at The Le Tourneau University Belcher Center, is excited to welcome guests to the new and improved venue.

“We are so thrilled to have completed this project in time for the start of the events season,” says Bowen. “As we unveil the transformed Belcher Center, we’re not just introducing cutting-edge audiovisual technology; we’re opening the door to a new era of possibilities for live events and community engagement here in Longview.”

Major Audiovisual Upgrade at The LeTourneau University Belcher CenterIn collaboration with LeTourneau University, Solotech, a global leader in audiovisual entertainment technology, designed, sourced, and installed cutting-edge equipment at the LeTourneau University Belcher Center, with the goal of providing extraordinary experiences for the local community.

Business Development Representative Tom Stotler spoke with enthusiasm about Solotech’s noteworthy partnership and the project’s outcome.

“Our mission was clear: to integrate state-of-the-art technology that would elevate each performance and create an unforgettable experience for audiences,” he explains. “Through our partnership with LeTourneau University, The Belcher Center, and our manufacturing collaborators, I’m proud to say we’ve achieved just that.”

This project involved a comprehensive audio and video enhancement for the main performance area. The audio setup featured top-of-the-line equipment by L-Acoustics, featuring the K3 line array known for its excellence in live audio reproduction. To manage the audio, DiGiCo consoles were installed; two Quantum 338 and one Quantum 225 digital mixing console. The video system is comprised of three Barco UDM 4K22 projectors with lenses, new DaLite custom motorized screens, and six Blackmagic 12K Cameras with Fujinon Lenses, four of which are automated with MRMC automated subject tracking capabilities.

Major Audiovisual Upgrade at The LeTourneau University Belcher Center

This endeavor was made possible thanks to an outstanding collaboration. Despite a very short window during LeTourneau’s summer break, Solotech successfully installed the major upgrades to The Belcher Center’s audiovisual equipment.

“It’s been a very positive experience working alongside a dedicated team for this upgrade to be delivered on time,” says Stotler. “The Belcher Center’s technical director Anthony ‘Fro’ Horner’s expertise provided invaluable direction right from the start. It was a real team effort to make sure this project was delivered for the start of The Belcher Center’s fall event season.”

The Belcher Center’s live events lineup begins September 14th with the Unite 2023 event hosted by Tim Tebow and Pastor Earl McClellan. Audiences can expect world-class live music, comedy, theatre, and more, now hosted in a modern performance venue.

Major Audiovisual Upgrade at The LeTourneau University Belcher Center

“The dedication and teamwork behind this project have truly set the stage for unforgettable experiences,” says Bowen. “We can’t wait to share the magic of this upgraded venue with our community, where every performance will be a celebration of excellence.”

To learn more about The LeTourneau University Belcher Center or to purchase tickets, visit their website at www.belchercenter.com.

Contact: media@old.solotech.com

Solotech’s Beverly Theater Project Wins ENR Award

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Solotech’s Beverly Theater Project Wins ENR Award

Las Vegas, USA, August 22nd, 2023 – Solotech is excited to share that The Beverly Theater has been recognized with a significant award. ENR Southwest’s annual Best Projects competition has selected Las Vegas’ Beverly Theater as best project in the cultural/worship category.

In collaboration with Carpenter Sellers Del Gatto Architects and Coherent Design, The Beverly Theater was designed to be more than just a cinema. It opened in 2022, aiming to merge art and entertainment and deliver exceptional experiences to audiences. An integral part of The Beverly Theater’s success is the Meyer Sound’s Constellation acoustic system that Solotech supplied and installed.

ENR Southwest’s annual Best Projects competition recognizes exceptional projects in Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico. Safety, innovation, craft quality, and community or industry benefit were examined by a panel of industry judges to select this year’s winners.

This recognition reflects Solotech’s commitment to collaborating with partners and leveraging modern technology to create remarkable experiences that resonate with audiences.

Congratulations to the Beverly Theater and all partners for this achievement.

SOLOTECH’S BEVERLY THEATER PROJECT WINS ENR AWARD 1

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media@old.solotech.com

 

Photo Credit: Meyer Sound, ALTF.com

Immersive Innovation

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Immersive Innovation

Solotech’s XR Studios Redefining Virtual Production

Los Angeles-based XR Studios, a prominent member of the Solotech group, is making waves in the entertainment industry with its cutting-edge immersive technology. PLSN sat down with J.T. Rooney, President of XR studios, to learn more about the leaders of the entertainment production technology space.

Renowned for its expertise in crafting Extended Reality (XR) and Augmented Reality (AR) solutions, XR Studios has collaborated with a diverse array of artists and brands, including Katy Perry, Riot Games, Amazon, and more. Their work at the forefront of mixed reality technology spans broadcast, live events, and virtual productions.

XR Studios has embraced the evolution of technology, expanding beyond multi-camera broadcasts, pushing boundaries in producing music videos, commercials, and more. As the virtual production landscape evolves, XR Studios remains committed to educating clients and partners about its potential. By demystifying the technology and dispelling misconceptions, they enable meaningful collaborations and unparalleled creative exploration.

With an eye on the future, XR Studios are excited about the integration of real-time content creation tools and the rapid advancements of AI, which are poised to reshape the industry.

Read the full article and learn more about how XR Studios is revolutionizing production technology by clicking here.

Source: PLSN (August 11), XR Studios

 

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media@old.solotech.com

5 minutes with…Pete Heller

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5 minutes with…Pete Heller

Solotech introduces the talent behind its unparalleled and world-renowned expertise.  

We sat down with Pete Heller, Business Representative for the Sales & Systems Integration Division in the New York and New Jersey markets.

 

Q: Thanks for taking the time to join us, Pete. Your role is certainly dynamic. Could you walk us through a typical day for you at Solotech? 

Pete Heller: Absolutely! Each day presents a fresh and exciting adventure. No two days look alike, and it’s part of what I love about my job. 

 

Q: How did your career’s journey lead you to Solotech?

PH: My entire career has revolved around AV. After college, I managed a TV Studio and Broadcast Non-Commercial Radio Station at a university in Northern New Jersey. Following that, I became a Product Specialist at Panasonic, supporting all their professional audio and video products. For the last two decades, I’ve held diverse leadership roles, notably propelling a $20 million integrator into a global powerhouse with a billion-dollar presence.

 

Q: Was a career in the AV industry your childhood dream? 

PH: I initially aspired to become an FM Radio DJ. In my youth, FM radio was our equivalent of the internet today.

 

Q: What aspect of your current job brings you the most satisfaction? Is there an “on-air giveaway” or a “spinning that perfect song” moment for you at Solotech  

PH: My proudest moments here come from building tailored solutions that meet our customers’ needs perfectly.

 

Q: Is there a particular project you’ve worked on at Solotech that stands out for you?  

PH: I’m currently working on some very cool projects. One involves designing a sound system for a boutique hotel near Central Park in New York. Another that sticks out involves a significant museum in New York. There’s also a Canadian command center that we are starting to design. Working with our clients, understanding their vision, and getting creative to achieve their goals is always exciting. 

 

Q: What sets Solotech apart from the competition? 

PH: During my first visit to our Montréal headquarters, I was blown away by the people and the culture of our organization. From sales and operations to a component-level service center, a woodshop, fitness center, jam room –all under one roof. Beyond that, Solotech provides an unparalleled combination of touring experience, rental, systems integration with design services, in-house lighting design and rigging, and cutting-edge XR capabilities – again, all under one roof. 

 

Q: What technological developments in the industry excite you the most? 

PH: I find the evolution of immersive audio as well as professional video and audio over IP systems fascinating. Technology has really evolved at such an exponential rate, and Solotech is able to offer incredible AV solutions today that would have been unimaginable even 30 years ago.  

 

Q: What do you think the future has in store for Solotech 

PH: With the world-class manufacturers we work with, the key acquisitions Solotech has made, and the opening of new offices around the world, there’s no doubt we’ll continue to expand globally.

 

Q: Is there something that Solotech doesn’t talk enough about?    

PH: That we are not merely another systems integratorwe offer real time solutions thanks to our extensive knowledge and expertise in touring and rental. We can even service your broken products! Whatever your needs, Solotech can deliver.  

 

Q: Thanks for this, Pete! Let’s end on a lighthearted note – where is your favorite place to travel?    

PH: The broadcasting nerd in me says Amsterdam; I love being there for the annual International Broadcasting Convention. 

Solotech Behind the Scenes: Crafting Unforgettable Festival Experiences

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Solotech Behind the Scenes: Crafting Unforgettable Festival Experiences

As Solotech geared up for a series of exhilarating festivals at Parc Jean-Drapeau in Montreal, starting with the iconic Osheaga Music and Arts Festival, CTV Montreal stepped behind the scenes to discover the intricate process that brings these inspiring events to life.

For several weeks leading up to the festival’s launch, Parc Jean-Drapeau was abuzz with activity as Solotech’s teams set up stages, ensuring that every detail was perfect before the tour buses and crowds rolled in. Our logistics experts meticulously plan every step, from packing and loading equipment to setting up stages on-site. It’s a delicate dance of coordination and precision that ensures the show starts without a hitch.

Technology plays a crucial role in enhancing the fan experience. While Solotech stays true to traditional methods, we’re also embracing innovation. Augmented reality and immersive environments are transforming how audiences engage with live performances. By combining these new technologies with our time-tested approach, Solotech elevates the festival experience to new heights.

From Osheaga, ÎLESONIQ, and LASSO Montreal, three major Montreal music festivals in three straight weekends, Solotech is at the heart of it all, ensuring that the show goes on.

Learn more about Solotech’s efforts behind Montreal’s festival season here.

Source: CTV Montreal (August 3, 2023), Preparations at Parc Jean-Drapeau ramp up for back-to-back festivals, starting with Osheaga

Contact: media@old.solotech.com

Outernet London Shortlisted For 2023 AV Award

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Outernet London Shortlisted For 2023 AV Award

London, UK, August 15th, 2023 – Outernet London, whose immersive audio system was created by Solotech, has been shortlisted for the 2023 Venue Project of the Year AV Award.

The AV Awards recognize outstanding achievements in the audio-visual industry, and Outernet has been acknowledged for its innovative contribution to the realm of experiential entertainment.

AV Awards 2023 Logo

The installation’s audio system, designed by Solotech’s team, has transformed the way visitors experience digital content and entertainment at Outernet London. With its state-of-the-art QSC Q-Sys network audio system and L-Acoustics L-ISA immersive sound technology, the audio system offers an immersive auditory journey that complements the venue’s captivating visual displays.

The AV Awards winners will be announced on November 3rd at Evolution London, where the best projects, products, and talents from the audio-visual industry will be celebrated.

 

Contact

media@old.solotech.com

Matchbox Twenty’s Slow Dream Tour

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Matchbox Twenty’s Slow Dream Tour

A 360-Degree, Sonic Evolution by Solotech.

Matchbox Twenty‘s long-awaited Slow Dream Tour is finally up and running; the realization of the band’s postponed 2020 tour, which was impacted by the pandemic. The tour, in support of their new album “Where the Light Goes,” has taken them across North America, with plans for future shows in Australia and New Zealand.

Solotech, working from their Nashville office, has provided audio, video, lighting, and rigging solutions. A versatile L-Acoustics-based sound system allows the performance to adapt to a range of venues, from arenas seating 19,000 to smaller theaters with a capacity of 6,000. The system also supports Matchbox Twenty’s evolving sonic palette while maintaining tonal consistency.

The tour does pose its challenges, particularly in RF coordination, due to the planning of 53 channels that include IEMs, backline wireless, wireless mics, and wireless reference mics. The team utilizes creative solutions to ensure a flawless performance from venue to venue.

To read the full article, and discover how the Slow Dream Tour has consistently delivered outstanding productions, click here.

Source: Live Sound International (July, 2023), Staying in Balance; Matchbox Twenty’s sonic evolution unfolds on the Slow Dream Tour

 

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media@old.solotech.com

Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres World Tour

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Solotech’s Audio Solutions Help Power the tour to New Environmental Heights 

 

Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres World Tour has gotten a lot of attention for its drive to significantly reduce emissions without compromising on quality. Hence why TPi Magazine did a deep dive into the tour and the production companies making Coldplay’s goal a reality.  

Solotech’s audio solutions were key to maintaining the band’s high sound quality and fan experience while hitting their environmental objectives. 

“Solotech […] has worked closely with Coldplay for years, and we are especially proud to be working on the Music of the Spheres World Tour, commented John Probyn, Solotech’s Head of Live Productions, Europe.   

Powering the entire show with repurposed BMW i3 batteries and offering sustainable charging solutions, like generators powered by kinetic energy created by dancing fans, were some of the innovative solutions driving Coldplay’s success.  

You can read all about Coldplay’s world tour here.  

Source: TPi Magazine (July 4, 2023), Behind the Scenes of Coldplay: Music of the Spheres World Tour 

 

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media@old.solotech.com

Steven Pechie appointed Vice President, Global Managed Services

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Steven Pechie appointed Vice President, Global Managed Services

Montreal, Québec – July 17, 2023 – Solotech, a global leader in audiovisual and entertainment technology, is pleased to announce the appointment of Steven Pechie as Vice President, Global Managed Services of the Sales and Systems Integration Division.

This strategic leadership role will contribute to the company’s continued growth and success in the managed services sector.

Solotech’s managed services offer comprehensive and ongoing support for any type of installation or project. As a member of the Sales and Systems Integration Division’s leadership team, Steven will oversee the strategy and deployment for global managed services.

The role’s key functions include evaluating growth opportunities and market strategies to enhance client services worldwide and developing a comprehensive roadmap to drive the continuous evolution of managed services offerings and solutions. Steven will work in tandem with the Vice President of Technologies to ensure that Solotech remains at the forefront of technology platforms, solutions, and products.

“We are excited to welcome Steven to the Solotech team,” says Philip Giffard, Global President, Sales and Systems Integration. “His positive and engaging approach, combined with his dedication to exceeding customer expectations, aligns perfectly with our vision. Steven’s expertise in cultivating strong client relationships will be instrumental in driving our managed services division to new heights.”

Steven’s creative leadership, in-depth knowledge of emerging trends and technologies, and client engagement skills make him a valuable asset to Solotech. With over a decade of experience in leadership roles encompassing operations, managed services, and sales management, he brings a wealth of expertise to his new position. His track record includes successfully developing new markets and establishing strong business partnerships with key clients while nurturing existing relationships.

“I am extremely excited to join the Solotech team and bring a positive, engaging approach to create memorable moments that surpass the highest expectations of our valued customers,” Steven explains. “We will continue to deliver high-quality managed services and foster meaningful partnerships to solidify Solotech’s position as a leader in the industry.”

Solotech looks forward to Steven Pechie’s contributions in shaping the future of the Sales and Systems Integration Division. Steven’s strong leadership will be crucial in achieving the division’s objectives.

 

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media@old.solotech.com

Martin Tremblay in an exclusive interview with Le Devoir

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Martin Tremblay in an exclusive interview with Le Devoir

Martin Tremblay, President and CEO of Solotech, shed light on the company’s growth and strategic vision.

 

Despite the challenges posed by COVID and widespread venue closures, Solotech’s revenues have soared from $100 million in 2017 to an impressive $650 million in 2023. Solotech has successfully capitalized on the digital revolution, showcasing its adaptability and resilience in the face of a global pandemic.

During the pandemic-induced slowdown, Solotech made strategic acquisitions, positioning itself as a consolidator in the global audiovisual entertainment and stage logistics sector. The company’s digital transformation, led by innovative inventory management and logistics systems inspired by artificial intelligence, has allowed for enhanced equipment utilization and efficient resale and replacement.

Tremblay emphasized Solotech’s focus on providing equipment and logistics for major international tours, delivering audiovisual production services to entertainment clients, as well as installing systems in transport, arenas and many other sectors. Moreover, Tremblay expressed his enthusiasm for returning to his roots in the gaming industry, as Solotech strives to produce comprehensive solutions for e-sports events.

To read the full article and explore Martin Tremblay’s insights, click here (French only).

Source: Le Devoir (May 12, 2023), Solotech : tournées mondiales, vidéoclips et…papier électronique

 

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media@old.solotech.com