View as Web Page Subscribe Forward to a Friend
February 2009 Newsletter

Production Sound Mixer - Chris Durfy

Chris Durfy

Chris Durfy is an Audio Mixer & Frequency Coordinator out of Atlanta, GA. He recently finished up the fifth season of "Top Chef" on Bravo.  Some of his other recent projects have included mixing for ABC's "Wife Swap" and as Audio Supervisor on "It's Me or the Dog".

"I recently got to work with the Zaxcom TRX900 Stereo Wireless as a camera hop. The unit I used had the recording and timecode options. It uses a single channel to pass a stereo signal (as opposed to using two channels), which in a frequency heavy environment of a eight camera reality show - every open frequency helps!

The transceiver in my bag recorded to an 2 gig SD card for a total of 12 hours of timecode-locked backup audio. You use a sync cable to lock timecode between your camera and the Zaxcom. That means even if my camera operator says he took a hit from the hops, I've still got a solid stereo track post can use. 

The only thing I didn't like about the system was the way the STA100 Stereo Adapter manages cables at 90 degree angle. Off the back rather than off the side. I hope this will be changed in the future.

However, as an owner of three Lectrosonics SR kits, I  must say overall, I was very impressed with the Zaxcom TRX900.

Chris Durfy - Audio Mixer & Frequency Coordinator

Three Day Rental Week!



FEBRUARY
RENTAL PACKAGE SPECIAL

15% Student Discount on all Rental with a valid student ID!

Kit 4: Documentary Package ($425/day) 
...Remember 1 Day Weekend Rental or take it for the whole week and pay only 3 Days!

  • Sound Devices 442, Wendt X4 or Wendt X5 Mixer

  • Sound Devices 744T Recorder

  • PSC Alpha Mix or Sound Devices 442 4 Channel Mixer

  • Sennheiser MKH 416/60 Shotgun Microphone w/

  • Rycote Softie Windscreen and Pistol Grip Mount

  • K-Tek Boom Pole 9-foot Carbon Fiber Internally Cabled

  • 3 Lectrosonics UCR411A/UM400 Digital Hybrid Wireless Systems

  • 3 Tram TR50 Lavaliers Mics w/5 clips, One Windscreen Each

  • Denecke Dcode® TS-C Full Featured Compact Smart Slate

  • Hawk-Woods NP1 Xl4s NP1 Power Adapter w/all Cables

  • Switronix Batteries 

  • Portabrace Case with Harness

Click here for more Rental Package Specials!

And The Winner Is...

Congratulations to all Nominees in Achievement in Sound Mixing!

THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON

 "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" (Paramount and Warner Bros.)


David Parker, Michael Semanick, Ren Klyce and Mark Weingarten

THE DARK KNIGHT

 "The Dark Knight" (Warner Bros.)


Lora Hirschberg, Gary Rizzo and Ed Novick

SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE

"Slumdog Millionaire" (Fox Searchlight)


Ian Tapp, Richard Pryke and Resul Pookutty

WALL-E

"WALL-E" (Walt Disney)


Tom Myers, Michael Semanick and Ben Burtt

"Wanted" (Universal)


Chris Jenkins, Frank A. Montaño and Petr Forejt

 

 

Congratulations to all Nominees in Achievement in Sound Editing!

THE DARK KNIGHT

 "The Dark Knight" (Warner Bros.)


Richard King

IRON MAN

"Iron Man" (Paramount and Marvel Entertainment)


Frank Eulner and Christopher Boyes

SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE

"Slumdog Millionaire" (Fox Searchlight)


Tom Sayers

WALL-E

"WALL-E" (Walt Disney)


Ben Burtt and Matthew Wood

"Wanted" (Universal)


Wylie Stateman

Rich's Recommendations

Pelsue's lightweight, one piece tents can be easily transported, set up and taken down in seconds, and contain no interior obstructions. They are non conductive, waterproof and flame retardant. Short of your hotel room, its the absolute best choice for protection from inhospitable location elements.

Pelsue ground tents have been used for over 40 years in various locations around the world. They are used in many diverse applications, including shelter in inclement weather, as well as for rehab & command posts of emergency responders.

Pelsue ground tents feature one-piece construction, no loose parts, and “instant set-up” design. Pelsue Tents are even easier to set up than an EZ Up! 10 seconds and you are up and ready to go! Available in many styles, sizes, and shapes.

Call one of our Sales Staff today (800) 883.1033 and let us help make your job a little easier!

Pro-Sound Vampire Clip for the Sanken COS-11x Microphone

Review Pro-Sound Vampire Clip

By Chris Durfy

I recently got the latest version of the COS-11 Vampire Clip (competing product to the Vclip).

It is VERY similiar to the Vclip, with three important differences:

1) The rubber tube that holds the mic capsule is less stiff and more rubbery than the Vclip.  This allows the capsule to be held securely yet allow enough flexibility to be removed with ease.

2) The rubber tube is also shorter, allowing a windscreen to be placed on the mic.

3) The Vclip retails for $20.99 while the Pro-Sound version is $5 less at $14.99.

I haven’t had time to test it in the field yet, but it does seem to solve my two major issues with the Vclip.

More to come….

NYC Production

PROJECTS IN PRE-PRODUCTION/PRODUCTION:

 

Gossip Girl Company: Warner Bros. Television Address: 42-22 22nd Street, 3rd Floor, LIC, NY 11101 Contact: Steven Spencer Scout: 6/4/08-12/31/08 Shoot: 6/19/08-3/3/09.

 

Jack Goes Boating Company: Cannoli Production LLC Address: 210 Douglass Street, 2nd Floor , Brooklyn, NY, 11217 Scout: 1/5/09-3/27/09 Shoot: 2/9/09-3/27/09.

 

Salt Company: Columbia Pictures Address: 110 Leroy Street, 6th Floor, NY, NY 10014 Contact: Daniel Wagner Scout: 11/13/08- 12/31/08 Shoot: 3/2/09-5/2/09.

 

The Extra Man Company: Young Gentlemen Pictures Inc Address: 233 Spring Street,4th Floor , New York, NY 10013 Contact : Joshua Huffman Shoot:1/29/09-3/27/09.

 

The Sorcerers’ Apprentice Company: Incantation Production, Inc Address: 15 Washington Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11205 Contact: Ulises Rodriguez Scout: 10/23/08-12/31/08 Shoot: 3/9/09-7/10/09.

 

Untitled Marc Lawrence Project Company: WHYoming Production, Inc. Address: 599 Broadway, New York, NY 10012 Contact: Ashley Bearden Scout: 1/28/09-3/15/09 Shoot: 3/16/09-5/6/09.

 

Untitled Nancy Meyers Project Company: Universal City Studios LLP Address: 231 Norman Ave, Brooklyn, NY, 11222 Scout: 11/12/08-12/31/08 Shoot: 2/01/09-6/17/09.

 

JOB LISTINGS:

 

$Composer/Musicians – Dolcefilms is looking to license music created by local New York City musicians for an exciting new tv show scheduled to air on award winning NYC TV. We are specifically looking for music from various New York ethnic neighborhoods. Such as Middle Eastern, Chinese, Russian, Jewish, Italian, Senegalese, Colombian, Mexican, Jamaican, Greek, Korean, Eastern European, etc. Instrumental music is preferred but vocal music is good too. Please contact Producers Daniel Lir or Bayou Bennett at aroundtheblocktv@gmail.com.

 

*Applicants – “Made in NY” Production Assistant Training Program – Applicants sought for new production careers training program. Must be available full-time for 4 weeks of training and committed to pursuing jobs as production assistants for film and television. The program is free of charge and no previous production experience is necessary. To learn more send an email with your name and contact information to productioncareers@fifthave.org.

 

*Camera Person and Associate Producer for Documentary – This is a low budget doc. There is no pay, but subject is interesting, hours are short and chance to use AJ SDX900 which produces amazing quality image. The SDX900 is a high end, large Panasonic camera with a very large lens... so the DP/camera operator will need to have strong shoulders - unless you have your own equipment that is smaller and lighter. In addition we are seeking an Associate Producer. Someone who is reliable and organized - yet also is easy going and flexible. To apply please email icewaterpictures@gmail.com.

 

*Casting Call – Osion Films are currently seeking talent in the New York area to star in a feature film. We have various roles on offer, ranging from Leads to extras. Please send a headshot as well as a brief about yourself to: casting@osionfilms.com

 

*Intern w Edit/Post Skills at Established Commercial Production House – Director at a very established NY/LA based commercial and film production house needs a part time intern with post production skills. Perfect for student downtown. Great possibility for transition to full or part time position. Serious inquiries only. For more information email oldbullpictures@gmail.com.

 

*Production Intern Needed – Production intern needed for new series for a major cable network. Responsibilities will include research, running errands, and general assistance. YOU NEED TO RECEIVE COLLEGE CREDIT FOR THIS INTERNSHIP!! DO NOT APPLY UNLESS YOU CAN RECEIVE CREDIT!! For additional information Josh.Halpert@RDFnewyork.com.

Sennheiser Offers Unique 700 MHZ Wireless Mic Rebate

Sennheiser Rebates

Sennheiser Electronic Corporation has introduced a rebate program in preparation for the imminent ruling by the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) that will restrict the use of wireless mics operating in the so-called 700 MHz band. To receive a rebate, users must purchase new Sennheiser systems and components in an alternate range and trade-in an equal number of old wireless systems or components, including non-Sennheiser brands, that currently operate in frequencies between 698 - 806 MHz. The twelve-month program includes tiered rebates of up to $1,400 or a simple flat rebate.

The tiered rebate program, unique to Sennheiser, is the most equitable rebate program available today and takes into consideration, not only the product series but also, when the old system was purchased. This applies to evolution wireless G2 products purchased in 2006 and 2007. End-users who purchased as recently as December 2007 qualify for the maximum rebate.

Sennheiser is also offering a simple flat rebate for all systems and components that don't qualify for the tiered program. For example, a flat rebate applies to the trade-in of other manufacturers' systems, Sennheiser freePORT or older evolution wireless systems.

For Sennheiser 3000 and 5000 series RF systems, which have the most flexible RF architecture available, Sennheiser continues to offer its cost-effective frequency re-tuning services. Users should call (860) 434-9190 for re-tuning service details. Sennheiser is also offering rebates of $500.00 per channel ($1,000 for dual channel systems) for upgrades to the latest 3000 and 5000 series components.

The rebate form and program details can be downloaded from Sennheiser USA's website. Rebate claims must be postmarked no later than December 15, 2009, and received by December 31, 2009 at SEC's headquarters in Old Lyme, Connecticut.

China Raid Snares Fake Shure Earphones

Hong Kong -- Nearly 9,000 counterfeit headphones were found due to an investigation initiated by Shure in Futian District, Shenzhen, in Mainland China.

They were found during a raid by the Shenzhen Administration for Industry and Commerce (AIC) on a wholesale shop, Sanze Electronics, in the Zhongdian Electronics and Technology Building on Huaqiang Road, and another at an associated warehouse.

"Counterfeiting is not just a problem for Shure," said Sandy LaMantia, Shure's president and CEO. "This is a serious issue that impacts our entire industry.  Every brand of professional audio and consumer electronics is at risk because of this criminal activity.  Shure continues to cooperate with other brands in joint actions and criminal prosecutions in China to present a united front against this illegal activity."
"Counterfeiters are keen to exploit the value of the Shure name," added Anita Man, managing director of Shure Asia Limited in Hong Kong. "This is demonstrated by the fact that a large number of the products seized during the raids in Shenzhen consisted of Shure-branded earphones and were not even copies of actual Shure models. They were absolute fakes that looked nothing like our products."

Goods seized during the enforcement action included 8,500 pairs of counterfeit earphones bearing the Shure name. Penalties imposed by the Shenzhen AIC against the wholesale outlet include the confiscation of all earphones, the requirement that the outlet cease its infringement activities immediately, and the imposition of a fine of 30,000 RMB.  Penalties against the warehouse will be determined in February.

Shure also has mounted successful operations to uncover and halt intellectual property violations in other parts of Asia, Europe, South America, the Middle East, Africa, and the United States.

Remember that Professional Sound Services is an Authorized Shure Dealer! Call and order your new pair of Authentic Shure Headphones today! 800.883.1033

Denecke TS-3

All Slate Orders now come with a Versa-Flex Slate Pouch!

Denecke, Inc. announced this month that all new slate orders will now come with a Versa-Flex slate pouch!  The heavy- duty slate pouches are custom designed to house the Denecke TS-3 and Denecke TS-C slates.  They are made of denier nylon with a Velcro enclosure and contain the "Father Time" logo and product name (TS-3 or TS-C) on the front.  They have a handle for easy carrying and include side and front pockets for storage.

Denecke TS-3 Time Code Slate

Post-Production 24/7 Studio Access

Call us today 212.586.1033 to find out more!

Pro-Sound Provides Outstanding Education!

Here is Rich Topham teaching professional sound techniques at the American University in Washington D.C. School of Communication. Taught by Professional Sound Services, our workshops cover the tools, techniques, and procedures used in the professional sound business. Students gain an appreciation of the aesthetic aspects of sound recording, learn tricks for creating an audio design and explore how to manipulate room tone, dialogue, and effects tracks for a realistic sound presence. Pre-production planning, boom and wireless microphone operation, microphone planting, tape-deck signal setup, and other techniques are also addressed. In addition, students are introduced to the latest DAT and analog systems, inter-format recording for music videos and commercial production, time code and other management tools for post production.

LOW RENTAL PRICES!

 

ON-LINE STORE!

Click on the Categories Below to Start Shopping!

Accessories Batteries Boompoles Cables  
Cases Sound Gear Interface Lavaliers  
Microphones Mixers Recorders Slates  
Speakers Tape Used Equipment Wireless  

Used Equipment Updates
 
Check the "Used Equipment" section of the Pro-Sound.com store for more frequent updates to our selection of used equipment!
NEW UPDATED LOWER PRICES ON MOST USED EQUIPMENT ON THE WEB-SITE!

In This Issue

Chris Durfy

Three Day Rental Week!

And The Winner Is...

Rich's Recommendations

Review Pro-Sound Vampire Clip

NYC Production

Sennheiser Rebates

China Raid Snares Fake Shure Earphones

All Slate Orders now come with a Versa-Flex Slate Pouch!

Post-Production 24/7 Studio Access

Pro-Sound Provides Outstanding Education!

LOW RENTAL PRICES!

ON-LINE STORE!

Pro-Sound Links

Shop Now

Rental

Service

Post Production

Education

Trade Shows

Staff

Office

Forms

Past Newsletters




  __________________ 

Pro-Sound Rental

Film and Video Production Sound, Broadcast, Communications, Sound Reinforcement, Post Production, Multimedia Production, Theater and Live Performance.

The PSS Rental Staff is available to discuss your particular needs. Whatever this may be, let PSS assist you in putting your Rental Package together.
 

NAGRAS, DIGITAL AUDIO, WIRELESS MICS, WALKIE TALKIES, Q SYSTEMS, MICROPHONES, SPEAKERS, PLAYBACK SYSTEMS, SOUNDCARTS, SIGNAL PROCESSING, FISHPOLES & BOOMS, INFRARED TRANSLATION SYSTEMS, MIXERS, TIMECODE SLATES, CELLULAR PHONES and now VIDEO EQUIPMENT AND LIGHTING!

 PSS OFFERS THREE DAY RENTAL WEEK! BEST DEAL IN TOWN!!!
__________________

Handy Forms


PSS Sound Report 2 Track


PSS Sound Report 6 Track

PSS Sound Report 10 Track

PSS Location Scout
Check List


PSS Expendables List


PSS Communication Quote


PSS Expendables Quote

 

Click on the form above to print out yours today!
__________________

Guarantee

Professional Sound Services Low Price Guarantee is the best in the business.
 
If that isn't enough, we'll match anyone's Low Price Guarantee.
To top it off, we consistently offer great savings on items we stock!
Why shop anywhere else?
__________________

Authorized Dealer - Featured Products


Lectrosonics Authorized Dealer


Sanken Microphones Authorized Dealer

Sound Devices Authorized Dealer

Sennheiser Authorized Dealer

 

PSC Authorized Dealer

Anchor Audio Authorized Dealer


Shure Products Authorized Dealer

Motorola Authorized Dealer

Pelican Authorized Dealer

Sony Authorized Dealer

Tascam Authorized Dealer

 Rode Authorized Dealer

 

Rycote Authorized Dealer

 

Neumann Authorized Dealer

 

Comtek Authorized Dealer


 

Countryman Authorized Dealer

 

DPA Authorized Dealer

 

Schoeps Authorized Dealer

Fostex Authorized Dealer

 And Many Others!

Professional Sound Services • 311 West 43rd Street Suite #1100 • New York • NY • 10036