Verbatim Products: Useful tools for your Media shopping list
June 30, 2009
DJs who remember the days of vinyl might find Verbatim’s Digital Vinyl CD-Rs a novel way for an added twist to those special occasions. The company has recently taken the traditional CD-R and given it a “new” look, with an “old” feel, with a standard burnable side, but a unique faux-vinyl side to replicate the look of a 45-rpm vinyl. The 80-minute/700 MB Digital Vinyl CD-Rs come in five different colors, combining a retro look with premium quality CD production technology. The presentation of that sales promotion, special wedding first dance or other commemorative tune never looked better!
Also, with so many mobile entertainers incorporating video aspects into their show, Verbatim now offers DigitalMovie Reel DVD-Rs.
Incorporating the same train of thought applied to the DVD, this product is idea for creating a distinct looking video disc for distribution. The appearance of the disc was carefully designed to give a look of a miniature canister of film, right down to the sprocket holes that reveal a hint of textured film behind them, and ribbed edges that depict film within the “reel”. Truly unique in look, these discs utilize Verbatim’s proprietary Metal Azo recording dye for unsurpassed performance and reliability.
Finally, photo enthusiasts and those with large accumulations of images for constant applications, will surely find a use for the release of Verbatim’s PhotoSave DVD. This recordable DVD allows users to find and save photos with ease. When a disc with the PhotoSave DVD feature integrated software is inserted into the DVD-R drive, it launches automatically. Users can search and find the photos they want at the click of a button. Click on the record button and save all their memories in the PC and retrieve t hem whenever they want. The manual mode allow for a search and save function to help burn photographs directly from a digital camera on to a PC. The useable capacity of 4.5GB allows the user to store as much as 2000 photos and has a long life. Its versatility offers users to find and save photos from a number of sources like camera, hard drive, memory card or a USB drive and it can recognize over 80 different photo file formats quickly. Cost effective, its manual mode allows users to add photo files to discs to full capacity.
Verbatim Corporation
1200 W.T. Harris Boulevard
Charlotte, NC 28262
Ph: 704 547 6500
Fax: 704 547 6609
Web: www.verbatim.com
![[Post to Twitter]](http://www.mobilebeat.com/wp-content/plugins/tweet-this/icons/tt-twitter.png){kind=icon}
American Audio Releases VX Series Amps Packed With Value-Added Features At Value-Driven Price
June 25, 2009
LOS ANGELES - American Audio has unleashed the VX Professional Amplifier Series - three astounding and affordable power amps that boast a stunning away of features previously out of reach of budget-conscious audiophiles. Designed for installations, DJs and bands, the series includes models VX 1000, VX 1500, and VX 2500 — which feature 1100W, 1500W and 2800W RMX respectively at 4 ohms bridged mono.
Constructed for the highest reliability and sound performance, with premium features like built-in dynamic sound processing circuitry, the VX amps deliver an extraordinary audio quality that may have consumers not believing their ears - and their price will certainly have consumers disbelieving their eyes! The smallest model VX1000 sells for less than $300 “on the street” ($299.99 MAP), while the VX 1500 goes for under $400 ($399.99 MAP), and the big daddy VX 2500 for under $600.00 ($599.99 MAP).
“We are proud to present a brand-new generation of power amplifiers that offer outstanding professional grade performance and features at price points that DJs, bands and small clubs can afford,” said Tom Freret, American Audio’s National Sales Manager. “Too often up-and-coming or working class musicians and DJs have to ‘settle,’ or a club owner with a big vision but a modest budget has to compromise. We were inspired to give these professionals all the power they deserve with the features they want. For example, the VX amps’ dynamic sound circuitry significantly improves the dynamic range and quality of sound.”
Another premium feature on all three models is a bright, multifunctional LCD display, which gives users a full overview of functions and settings such as Temperature, Working Mode and Protection Mode. Since the “Mode” buttons are on the front of the unit, and you can view which mode you’re in on the LCD screen, the user does not have to touch the back of the amp to change modes. Everything can be done from the front of the unit - a convenience not commonly found on most amplifiers. Another user-convenience on the VX Series is that, in default mode, the LCD screen informs you of the temperature of each side of the amp. All three VX models also feature a Comprehensive Protection System (CPS) with Auto Shut Down, which protects the amplifier from damage by switching off in the event of an overload, high temperature or short circuit.
Yet another value-added feature on the VX series is a superior clip limiter that provides users with a broad palette of sonic possibilities. With a solid case design with 3mm steel, and back ears that can be mounted in a rack, the VX Series enables day-by-day use on the road as well as fixed installations in racks.
Here is a closer look at the 3 models in the VX Amplifier Series:
The VX 1000 has 1100W RMS per channel @ 4 ohms bridged mono. The unit is capable of stereo, parallel, or bridge modes. Output Power: 2 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD, 550W RMS per channel; 4 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD, 500W RMS per channel; 8 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD 330W RMS per channel. Bridged Mode, mono: 4 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD, 1100W RMS per channel; 8 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD, 1000W RMS per channel. Damping Factor: 300 (@ 8 ohms). The dimensions are height 3.5″, width 19″, depth, 16.5″, and the VX1000 weighs only 40 pounds. It has a street price of only $299.99.
The VX1500 has 1500W RMS per channel @ 4 ohms bridged mono. The unit is capable of stereo, parallel, or bridge modes. Output Power: 2 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD, 750W RMS per channel; 4 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD, 700W RMS per channel; 8 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD 450W RMS per channel. Bridged Mode, mono: 4 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD, 1500W RMS per channel; 8 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD, 1400W RMS per channel. Damping Factor: 300 (@ 8 ohms). The dimensions are height 3.5″, width 19″, depth, 16.5″, and the VX1500 weighs 45 pounds. It has a street price of only $399.99.
The VX2500 has 2500W RMS per channel @ 4 ohms bridged mono. The unit is capable of stereo, parallel, or bridge modes. Output Power: 2 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD, 1400W RMS per channel; 4 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD, 1200W RMS per channel; 8 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD 750W RMS per channel. Bridged Mode, mono: 4 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD, 2800W RMS per channel; 8 ohms, 1 khz 1% THD, 2400W RMS per channel. Damping Factor: 500 (@ 8 ohms). The dimensions are height 3.5″, width 19″, depth, 16.5″, and the VX2500 weighs 52 pounds. It has a street price of only $599.99.
Other specifications common to all 3 models include:
The Frequency Response is +/- 3dB, 1W RMS 8Ohms (20Hz-20kHz)
The Signal to Nose Ratio is less than 95 db, unweighted (@ 8 ohms full power)
The Input Sensitivity and Impedance is 1.0v rms (0dBv) (@ 4 ohms)
A 2-speed fan.
Written by Ryan Burger · Filed Under Exclusive Online News and Content, Sound
A ruthless discussion of the term ‘Budget Bride’ and wedding decision making
June 22, 2009
Andy Ebon
I only have $500. Will you take it?
A couple of days ago, I posted an item about the differences between money (price), value, budget and result. It generated lots of traffic, a comment or two, and plenty of direct email.
It also caused me to consider the phrase, ‘budget bride.’ Along with DIY Bride, these are two of the most annoying and poorly used descriptors in the industry. To a great degree, I lay that at the feet of my friends in mass media for the wedding industry. Mass media tends to be a popularization tool as much as an information source. If you repeat a phrase, such as ‘budget bride,’ often enough, it becomes part of the wedding lexicon, for better for worse.
The problem with these phrases is they paint the bride’s resources with the grayest of brush strokes. So, at the risk of being more precise, I’ll break it down from my experience.
- DIY Bride: (Budget: under $5000) Someone who probably doesn’t have the resources to get married just yet and is likely to turn most of her wedding into an Arts and Crafts project.
- Low Budget Bride (Budget: $5000 - $14,999) Has the resources, but will have to make some tough decisions on the reception. The big conundrum is whether to economize across the board or cut in specific areas, and not others.
- Statistically Average Bride: (Budget: $15,000 - $34,999) Has the resources to do a nice job on the reception. Her biggest decision should be ‘How many guests can we invite to have a nice reception?’
- High Budget Bride (Budget: $35,000 - $60,000): Has more than enough money to do great things. Her biggest challenge is not to make bad choices among wedding vendors, irrespective of money.
- Luxury Bride (Budget: more than $60,000): Daddio has wads of cash and she wants to be awash in greenbacks. Not all brides in this financial category are Bridezillas, but the risk and tendency is greater than in any of the lower tiers. Bridezillas almost always make bad decisions. It’s in their DNA.
A budget is not:
- … is not throwing a dart at a target.
- … budget is not the total amount in the parent’s bank account or your bank account.
- … budget is not what one or more girlfriends spent on their wedding.
- … is not necessarily what you see on Platinum Weddings or Get Married TV (those are inspirations)
A budget is:
- A study of the range of what wedding products and services cost in your area, balanced against your tastes, inspirations and fantasies.
- Factored by the number of guests you choose to invite.
A line budget item is not:
- “I only have $750 left for videography. Will you take that?”
- “Oh, my third cousin, Oscar, is going to take the photos.”
A budget is:
- $1 Million
- $50,000
- $25,000
- $7,500
- $3,000
Budget does not necessarily mean low budget. A budget can be…
- A specific dollar amount or less
- A specific dollar amount or more
- A range from $X to $Y (this is the preferred budget)
- Money is no object (must be the truth)
The Wedding Report publishes ongoing data about spending in the wedding industry. It consistently reports that brides spend close to 50% more than they had budgeted for the wedding, with an average wedding expense running just under $30,000. This shows a major discrepancy between the original money allotted, from reality of their desires.
I would assert the reason for this is that their original money allotment was not a budget at all. It was dart throwing at a bank book.
Here’s the challenge from every wedding professional, wedding media outlet, and industry trade association:
- Clearly delineate what it means to be a professional in your category of the wedding industry, from the standpoint of ‘benefits to the bride.’
- Explain the relationship (if any) of your business category to others. Such as the interactions between entertainer, photographer, videographer and caterer/venue. Or flowers and cake.
- Explain the Truth or Consequences and effect of making a sub-standard choice.
The naked truth about satisfaction vs. money spent: When a wedding day is over, either the bride and groom are happy with a particular product or service or they are not. A vendor is not wearing a price tag around their neck. There is not a dollar cost at your place card, showing the price of each dinner. There is not a little flag in your slice of cake, showing its cost plus a cake cutting fee.
In retrospect, most wedding couples can point out decisions they made, that were off-the-mark. There are hundreds of decisions, big and small, involved in a wedding. Amazingly enough, it only takes one or two really bad decisions to create an unhappy outcome. And, amazingly enough, a really bad decision is often not related to money.
It would be outstanding if all wedding industry professionals would embrace educating the bride to realistic and exciting expectations, rather than than just fanning the flames of fairy tale dreams. It is true that if the wedding budget is spent disproportionately, bad things usually happen.
A bride with $12,000 to spend, should be able to experience as much happiness on her wedding day as one with $50,000. But that supposes she has enough information, common sense, and critical thinking to make consistently good decisions, and then does so.
Come to think of it, that’s a pretty good operational mission statement for the wedding industry.
Don’t you agree?
Andy Ebon
The Wedding Marketing Authority
Written by Andy Ebon · Filed Under Business, Exclusive Online News and Content, Online or Magazine Issue, The Wedding Marketing Blog - Mobile Beat Edition, Types of Articles
Mobile Beat Pioneer ProDJ Tour Hits SouthEast!
June 17, 2009
Mobile Beat is touring the U.S. this August and September to instill a higher level of professionalism into the national DJ industry, spotlighting the educational focus of Mobile Beat Magazine and the Mobile Beat conferences. Each stop will consist of 3 to 4 hours of seminars, exhibits, demonstrations and more.
All tour stops will feature seminars similar to those at our Las Vegas DJ conferences, including many of our previous well-known conference speakers along with some new names. Presentations by some of our sponsors will be included, as well as time for networking with DJ professionals from your area, company reps, and other industry members in Mobile Beat Tour 2009 attendance. Doors will open at 6:00 PM and the event should wrap up between 9:00 and 10:00 PM each time. All of the events are being held Sunday through Thursday.
South East Leg
(additional legs announced later this week and early next week - or you can see all the info athttp://www.mobilebeat.com/mb-tour)
August 30th - Charlotte, Dave & Buster’s, 8361 Concord Mills Blvd, Concord, NC
August 31st - Atlanta, Dave & Buster’s, 2215 D and B Dr SE, Marietta, GA
September 1st - Tampa, Renaissance Hotel Intl Plaza, 4200 Jim Walter Blvd, Tampa, FL
PLEASE NOTE: info subject to change without notice.
Seminars
Danny Brewer: 10 Steps to Running a Successful DJ Business - An essential overview to help you develop, maintain and grow your service. This discussion will cover developing and following your business plan, customer service, sales calls, organization and networking.
Tom Haibeck: How to Emcee a Wedding Reception - Do you charge extra for your services in emceeing a wedding reception? You should. Best-selling author Tom Haibeck (Wedding Toasts Made Easy and The Wedding MC: A Complete Guide to Success for the Master of Ceremonies) will walk you through the key steps involved in planning the event and delivering an outstanding performance as a wedding host.
Dr. Drax: Technology in the 24th Century - Dr. Drax is recognized as the foremost authority on technology in the DJ industry. His expertise and insight has led many DJs to invest wisely in technologies that have expanded their business. In this seminar, Drax will talk about trends and new directions in the delivery of our entertainment services. He will cover where we have been, where we are, and where we are going, including the core elements that every DJ should be adopting. There will be a Q&A session at the conclusion, so bring your questions. Come hear what the future holds in store for you!
Get Ahead Of The Game - Register NOW!
While each Mobile Beat Pioneer ProDJ Summer Tour Stop is a FREE event, pre-registration is highly recommended to avoid delays upon arrival. Those pre-registered will also receive extra discounts and offers. Go to https://members.mobilebeat.com to register online NOW!
Written by Ryan Burger · Filed Under Conference News, Exclusive Online News and Content
QSC Audio Joins Mobile Beat Pioneer ProDJ Tour
June 15, 2009
“Your chance to experience the new standard in powered loudspeakers with QSC personnel at every venue” is what Evan MacKenzie of QSC Audio said when asked why DJs should attend the Mobile Beat Tour. QSC will be showing the DJ world their new K Series powered speaker line.
Mobile Beat is touring the U.S. this August and September to instill a higher level of professionalism into the national DJ industry, spotlighting the educational focus of Mobile Beat Magazine and the Mobile Beat conferences. Each stop will consist of 3 to 4 hours of seminars, exhibits, demonstrations and more. Look for more details coming online soon and in the May issue of Mobile Beat Magazine.
Sponsors Include: Pioneer ProDJ, X-Laser, ADJA, Digigames, Top Hits USA, Froggy’s Fog, and Open Air Photo Booth.
Check out tons more info at http://www.mobilebeat.com/mb-tour/
Written by Ryan Burger · Filed Under Conference News, Exclusive Online News and Content
East Coast Leg of Mobile Beat Pioneer ProDJ Dates and Locations Announced
June 11, 2009
Mobile Beat is touring the U.S. this August and September to instill a higher level of professionalism into the national DJ industry, spotlighting the educational focus of Mobile Beat Magazine and the Mobile Beat conferences. Each stop will consist of 3 to 4 hours of seminars, exhibits, demonstrations and more.
All tour stops will feature seminars similar to those at our Las Vegas DJ conferences, including many of our previous well-known conference speakers along with some new names. Presentations by some of our sponsors will be included, as well as time for networking with DJ professionals from your area, company reps, and other industry members in Mobile Beat Tour 2009 attendance. Doors will open at 6:00 PM and the event should wrap up between 9:00 and 10:00 PM each time. All of the events are being held Sunday through Thursday.
East Coast Leg
(additional legs announced later this week and early next week - or you can see all the info at http://www.mobilebeat.com/mb-tour)
August 23rd - Boston, Sheraton Needham Hotel 100 Cabot St, Needham, MA
August 24th - NY Metro, Long Island Marriott Hotel & Conf. Center 101 James Doolittle Blvd, Uniondale, NY
August 25th - Philadelphia, Dave & Buster’s, 325 N. Columbus Blvd #19, Philadelphia, PA
August 26th - Baltimore, Dave & Buster’s, 7000 Arundel Mills Cir # D1, Hanover, MD
PLEASE NOTE: info subject to change without notice.
Seminars
Doug Sandler: It’s Time To Work Smart - Ever wonder what it would be like to get client referrals before you worked a gig? Would you believe that over 90% of your responsibilities occur prior to working a function? Did you know 9 out of 10 DJs and MCs focus on things that will not make them one cent in the DJ business? It’s time for all that to change. Let’s start NOW.
Ken Cosco: Interactive Games and Dances - In this high-energy, rapid-fire seminar we will demonstrate as many unique games and dances as time will permit. Be prepared to get involved immediately and learn quickly. Volunteer and you will burn calories while gaining experience with these explosive tools of entertainment! Do you charge extra for your services in emceeing a wedding reception? You should.
Dan Goldsmith: Distinctive Lighting Up-Sales - The hottest trend in mobile entertainment these days is producing lighting packages that not only add to your show, but add to your bottom line as well. In this jam-packed seminar you will learn about different options for custom gobo projection, creating exciting up-lighting packages, and adding value and appeal to your existing dance floor lighting packages. From “clubby” to elegant and always profitable, get started making money with distinctive lighting packages that will get you noticed!
Get Ahead Of The Game - Register NOW!
While each Mobile Beat Pioneer ProDJ Summer Tour Stop is a FREE event, pre-registration is highly recommended to avoid delays upon arrival. Those pre-registered will also receive extra discounts and offers. Go to https://members.mobilebeat.com to register online NOW!
Written by Ryan Burger · Filed Under Conference News, Exclusive Online News and Content
High Powered LED Mushroom from Chauvet debuts
June 11, 2009
The Mushroom, a mainstay derby effect fixture, has been fitted with three high-powered LEDs to become a new industry standard– the LED Mushroom.
The LED Mushroom provides floor-to-ceiling and wall-to-wall coverage with crisscrossin
g colored beams. The red, green and blue LEDs produce nearly limitless combinations through preprogrammed shows with either master/slave or DMX. Built-in sound activation programs are also via master/slave or DMX.
Lighter in weight and smaller in size than its halogen predecessor, the LED Mushroom is easy to carry, install and store. It is more powerful, with 3-watt LEDs for 130-degree floor coverage.
Because of its lower power draw of just 24 watts, up to 37 units can be daisy chained at 120 volts. The LED Mushroom can also be linked to the LED X products for additional effects. The unit can be used anywhere due to its acceptance of a wide range of voltages, from 100 - 240V. The autosensing feature automatically triggers the unit’s adjustment to the voltage supplied.
The LED Mushroom is a cool fixture and can be used in settings where heat must be avoided and energy consumption must be minimized. Because of its very low heat level, duty cycles are a thing of the past.
The LED Mushroom provides all of the classic features that made the Mushroom a DJ favorite but added value through its innovative characteristics.
More info can be found at http://www.chauvetlighting.com
Written by Ryan Burger · Filed Under Exclusive Online News and Content, Lighting
2010 Mobile Beat Seeks Conference Speakers
June 10, 2009
BC Productions,Inc., producers of the Mobile Beat DJ Shows and Conferences, is looking for creative presenters for the 2010 MBLVx event, which will run February 8-11 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
With more than 40 various conference sessions planned, the Mobile Beat conference program unites the industry’s most respected experts to address the latest trends, strategies and profit opportunities emerging in the mobile entertainment industry. More then 2,000 attendees including DJs, retailers, manufacturers, media, and reps from all over the world have attended past Mobile Beat shows.
Speaker proposals will be accepted through September 30, 2009. Proposals can be submitted online at:
http://www.mobilebeat.com/the-company/contact-mb/
or contact Show Producer Mike Buonaccorso at mb@mobilebeat.com
Due to the number of sessions offered and the need for a balanced program, a limited number of presenters will be accepted. All proposals will be considered based on content and subject matter, professionalism, prior public speaking experience and relevance to overall conference. Sales pitches and product-specific sessions will not be considered for the general show, but can be arranged through the MB Sales Department under our “Sponsored Session” program . Proposed presenters will be notified of their acceptance status at the end of October.
Please note the following change of information in our procedures. In 2006, Mobile Beat embarked on a grand experiment to compensate the speakers of our Las Vegas event. No other major DJ show to date had ever established such a policy.The purpose was to raise the industry bar, develop some degree of loyalty, and encourage those who had never spoken before to participate. After three years, little of this has succeeded. We have watched as many of our speakers show up everywhere, and from most sources, in places where there is no equal compensation to our efforts. As a result, starting with the 2010 Las Vegas show, speaker compensation will return to what was our policy prior to 2006: 2 full show passes, and an opportunity (if applicable) to sell your product through individual arrangements.
Show management will work with speakers on all logistical and promotional aspects of the session. Speakers are required to prepare and reproduce presentation materials, including handouts or related materials and topic outlines. All hotel and travel expenses are the responsibility of the presenter.
For more news on MBLVx before, during and after the show, visit www.mobilebeat.com , the online interactive DJ resource.
Simple Defense Against Price Cutters
June 10, 2009
My friend, Robbie Schlosser (Magnolia Jazz Band) reminded me of an old strategy used by barbershops against their price slashing competition.
Robbie recalle barbershop sign “Haircut $5″, and next door another shop advertised “We fix $5 haircuts”.
Every high quality wedding business should have that message (in some iteration) on their website or as signage in their office. It would be a not-so-subtle wedding marketing message that working with a price-cutter is risky business.
With haircuts, one gets a second chance. With weddings, there is no ‘do-over.’ And with some categories of wedding services, the risk of failure is simply not worth the money ’saved.’
My standard response to clients seeking a lower ‘price match’ was simple: Trying to shave down a few hundred dollars out of a wedding budget of $30,000 can be a critical mistake, if you try to save it in the wrong place. At the end of the night, there won’t be a sign around my neck showing how much you paid. Either we will be successful, and you will be happy, or will have saved some money on another service, and you won’t be happy.
Nothing closes a sale like self-confidence. In Robbie’s words “Stay positive — there is always a way.”
One other thing is important. Be SIGNIFICANTLY BETTER THAN YOUR COMPETITION. Don’t just believe your own hype!
Andy Ebon
The Wedding Marketing Authority
Written by Andy Ebon · Filed Under Business, Exclusive Online News and Content, Marketing Tidbits, Online or Magazine Issue, The Wedding Marketing Blog - Mobile Beat Edition
To Blog, Or Not To Blog?
June 9, 2009
… is probably the wrong question.
I must admit I been infused with a heavy dose of Seth Godin logic. It comes with reading his books and blog, and understanding his perspective. His angle is consistent. Ask different question. Suggest to his readers that they ask different questions.
So when one of my business friends posted the title, “To Blog, Or Not To Blog” on a private message board, I could help but suggest, “Perhaps that’s the wrong question?”
Just because blogging is almost free, in terms of hard dollars, doesn’t mean it’s easy. If you are not a natural writer, you may spend more time per post or have challenges with subject matter. At a lecture last week, I invoked the quotation: “Anything worth doing well, is worth doing badly at first.” (Ben Franklin, I think).
FACT: A well-crafted, well-maintained Wordpress blog, that lives on your website server is perhaps the greatest search engine optimization tool, around, today.
The benefits of engaging customers, prospects, industry peers and media are tangible and incalculable. Actually, not entirely incalculable.
Another FACT: The longer you wait to blog, the more run-up time you give to your competitors.
One of the most important facts of life is: Don’t kid yourself. As my friend likes to say: “It’s a no-brainer.”
The answer to the question: “To blog, or not to blog?” (as part of my wedding marketing plan) is, indeed, a no-brainer. There are other good question to ask, but from where I sit, this isn’t one of them.
Andy Ebon
The Wedding Marketing Authority
