Gear

Computerized DMX Lighting Control
Presenter: Ben Stowe, NLFX
Sunday, July 12th, 1 pm – 2:30 pm – Salon A

Ben Stowe

Exacting control over DMX fixtures has never been easier, and this workshop will show you how. DMX fixtures more available than ever before, but more fixtures demand more streamlined control. Just as the GUI simplified the way we use computers, software based DMX controls simplify the way we use lighting. New software allows seamless and easy integration of audio and video as well. Ben uses a software based control system to produce the pregame show for Bemidji State University’s NCAA Division 1 men’s hockey program. The program is the winningest of all current NCAA Division 1 teams, and lays claim to 13 National Championships. BSU fans demand a pregame that lives up to their team’s play and the software makes it possible.

Ben’s love of electronics and technology led to years of schooling in electricity, electronics, robotics and lasers. Ben paid his way through school by building and selling strobe lights and other electronic devices. He built his first DJ show largely from scratch and scrap, often repairing broken items others had thrown away because he could not afford to buy new equipment. He is a licensed Power Limited Technician and a licensed Technology Systems Contractor. His relentless passion for education has led to a number of other certifications and accreditations, including the most widely recognized one in the AV industry, the InfoComm CTS. Ben has been involved in a number of technical writings, lectures, presentations, as well as research and development assistance with a number of manufacturers for products, industry wide. Ben serves the industry as the CEO for NorthernLightFX, an industry leading supplier of sound, lighting and video systems, a role he has maintained since founding the company in 1993.

So you want to become a mobile VJ?
Presenter: Bernie Howard, Bernie Howard Events
Sunday, July 12th, 2:30 pm – 4 pm, Salon A

Bernie Howard

Music Videos aren’t just for clubs any more. Mitzvahs, Weddings and Schools are all demanding screens, projectors and music videos to put their events over the top and they are prepared to pay for it. Becoming a VJ really isn’t that tough if you understand your options. Bernie Howard and friends explain ALL the nuts and bolts to become a super VJ. Computers/software requirements, switchers, projectors, robo-cams, screens and more will be demonstrated (not just talked about). Bernie’s video rig and more will be demystified and explained how you too can become a mobile VJ. 

Bernie Howard Fryman is 37 years into his DJ career, Bernie recently purchased and operates Audiolines.com the high volume discount DJ/Professional Audio gear distributor based in Chicago, Illinois (can you say DJ retirement strategy?). As a mobile production company, Bernie and crew still entertain as Big Boys Entertainment and produces elite Bar/Bat mitzvah celebrations on Chicago’s North Shore. Starting as a radio jock in 1972, he left radio to entertain “live” at the world famous Old Chicago Amusement Park for thousands of patrons each night. 

In 1979 he was asked to be the DJ at Hugh Hefner’s 25th Anniversary celebration at the Chicago Playboy mansion. As a wedding jock for many years, he entertained at 1000’s of events. Working for the original Numark Electronics Corp, MTX and then GCI Technologies, he traveled and met DJs worldwide. With degrees from Columbia College, Devry and SynAudCom, Bernie became the 5th inductee to the American DJ Hall of Fame in Las Vegas, NV in 2000. The DJ biz is his life.