AmpliVox Portable Sound Systems Blog

Corporate Event Management Tips Guide: Planning and Organizing Corporate Functions

noreply@blogger.com (Amplivox) — Sun, 27 May 2012 19:11:00 +0000


Great planning can make or break a great corporate event.

Events can grow your business or organization and bring in a lot of profits, providing a great venue to establish and develop relationships, communicate updates and news.

Proper event management is important to avoid planning pitfalls so you do not wind up with a boring event or a wasted opportunity.

Here are 15 Tips for Corporate Event Planning:

1. Type of Event? Is it a Holiday party, product launch, stockholder gathering, or regional meeting? The answer to that question will affect the overall direction your event will go. The event theme, budget, and venue will all depend on this. Party ideas and themes will only thrive if the event is the right type.

2. Date of Event? When organizing events, making sure the date is perfect. Brainstorm different potential conflicts and holidays that may clash with your event and plan around them. Have the guests and their travel arrangements in mind so you do not inhibit people from coming by planning it at a time where people would have to battle traffic.

Contemporary Acrylic Lectern

3. Purpose of Event? Without having a purpose to the event, you could waste a lot of time and money for something that creates zero value. What are your goals and objectives for this event? Having a defined purpose to the event will help your planning team.

Having a purpose for the event is one of the Four Pillars to a great event:

Great food
Great entertainment
Great social time
Great value in fulfilling purpose of event.

Wireless Presentation PA System

4. Make sure you have the proper audio visual equipment. Having equipment with professional quality and a professional look will make your event stand out in the minds of attendees.

Will your event have a Keynote Presentation? Elegant events need an elegant lectern. AmpliVox offers several lecterns with wireless sound systems built in, allowing speakers to project their voice over the audience.

Will your event need a sound system? Do you need to project emcee's voice or play music during your event? Are there instruments that need to cover a large area? The AmpliVox Digital Audio Travel Partner Package is a great option that can project to an audience of 7,500 people through a variety of inputs: up to 8 wireless microphones simultaneously, several different music inputs (iPod, CD Player), and allows musicians to plug in their instruments effortlessly. The iPod Portable PA System is able to hook up a projector and allows users to control the built-in DVD player with the remote control.

5. Does your event need entertainment? Depending on the nature of your event, it may be beneficial to hire a musician, comedian, DJ, or a celebrity for your event. Choosing the right entertainer will help boost attendance numbers and make the event a great memory for those who attend.

6. Are you expecting the unexpected? Being prepared for an emergency and having a Plan B for weather is important when planning a corporate special event.

The Radio Hailer Emergency Communication System allows you to use your portable 2-way radio, base station or mobile radio to deliver live voice messages directly to a PA speaker up to 1 mile away.

7. Would signage benefit your event? This could be a valuable branding opportunity where you could increase your exposure and even include a call to action like a text-donation if you are a non-profit, or invite guests to like your Facebook Page. Signage and branding is one vital part of a corporate event that should be at the top of your checklist.

Automation is a planner's best friend!

8. Automate as much as possible. Use event planning software like EventBrite or EventPro to help you with many parts of an effective event planning process for your corporate event.

9. All hands on deck! It is better to have too many people helping out at an event than too little. With potentially thousands in attendance at corporate conferences, being overstaffed is to be preferred over being understaffed!

10. Test technology beforehand to make sure it is functioning properly. Make sure all of the different systems you will be using are functioning like they should be. Also make sure the speaker placement of the PA system broadcasts your sound in the right direction to prevent embarrassing feedback that may occur otherwise.

[ More Information: Pocket Guide to Optimal Room Set Up ]

11. Be wise about food. Do you need a whole meal or just dessert? Are you planning for certain dietary restrictions that guests may have? Party professionals need to answer these questions and find good solutions to ensure their guests safety and enjoyment of the event.

12. Pick the right time of day. Breakfast or lunch events are sometimes a better option than an evening event. A great example of this is the Business Breakfast Event called Social Media and the Art of Cause Marketing.

13. Treat special guests respectfully. If you have guests coming in to perform or give a keynote address, treat them like royalty and think through their entire schedule and how you can serve them and make their time enjoyable. A favorable impression on the keynote speaker could pay surprising dividends in the future.

Victoria Multimedia Lectern

14. Be wise about downtime. Avoid boring interludes. It is a good idea to keep all corporate functions to an optimal length without a lot of downtime. You do not want people to think your event is boring, or worse--that it is over before an important announcement or part of the evening.

Presidential Plus Podium

15. Clarify Team Roles and Responsibilities. It is a good idea for your team to review their specific duties before the event starts. You do not want anything important falling through the cracks because of bad communication or a lack of understanding.

by Kevin Halloran

What did we miss? If you have any more corporate planner party tips or suggestions and techniques for those in event services, please share in a comment!

Images Courtesy of Seth Lemmons, blupics
Related Pages:
Product: Multimedia Lecterns
Product: Battery Powered PA Systems
Blog: Custom Mountable Horn Speaker Systems
Blog: 7 Tips to Make Yourself Look like a Professional Presenter

How to Use PA System Instructions Video

noreply@blogger.com (Amplivox) — Fri, 25 May 2012 12:08:00 +0000

The purpose of this blog and instructional video is to explain the wide range of features on the Digital Audio Travel Partner PA System.

Here is a Table of Contents for easy navigation:
00:25 | Information Packet
00:54 | Accessory Box
01:44 | Features/Powering On
03:12 | Remote Control*
04:15 | Power Cord/Battery
04:32 | Microphone Options
05:25 | Wireless Headset Mic Setup
06:12 | Setting Wireless Frequency on Transmitter
07:50 | Lapel Mic
10:30 | Wireless Handheld Mic
10:55 | Changing the Wireless Receiver's Channel
12:22 | CD Player/USB Drive/SD Card
14:17 | Volume Level Adjustment
14:55 | Handle/Wheels/Durable Casing
15:33 | Explanation of Neodymium Speakers
16:30 | Four Status Lights at Top of SW915
17:28 | Use of External Devices**
18:35 | Wired Microphone
20:40 | Mic Level to Line Level
20:27 | USB to Computer/Laptop Connection
21:51 | Computer/Laptop to Headphone Jack Connection
23:30 | Quick Set up Guide
23:54 | Remote Control Pick Up Sensors
25:03 | Power Maintenance and Management
25:48 | Storage Tips

*Instructional Video: Digital Audio Travel Partner Remote Control
**Instructional Video: Use the Digital Audio Travel Partner PA System with iPod
***How to Set Up Digital Audio Travel Partner Video

How to Set up a Portable PA System | Sound System Setup Instructions

noreply@blogger.com (Kevin H) — Tue, 22 May 2012 12:49:00 +0000

Public Address System bundles are a great way to make your voice and message heard at a large gathering. We know that some PA systems are not user friendly and difficult to set up which is exactly why we made setting up an AmpliVox Portable Sound System as easy as it gets. Most of our products are virtually ready to use out of the box, but this page shows how to set up some of the larger systems with more pieces.

The Digital Audio Travel Partner PA System Platinum Bundle include our signature product, the Digital Audio Travel Partner PA System, and gives presenters speaker tripods, mic stands, extra speakers, and cases for the system. There are three different bundles available. Click on the link to view an informational video on the Digital Audio Travel Partner Loudspeaker PA System. The video below explains how easy setting up a Digital Audio Travel Partner Bundle is.

The Wireless Voice Projector Kit SW227 is a stereo wireless speaker system combines our Voice Projector PA System with an additional speaker, tripods for the speakers, and a case to neatly store all of your equipment. It is a 50 watt system that combines stylish speakers in black carpeted acoustic boxes in an easy to set up bundle. The video below is set-up instructions on a wired model.

Sound Cruiser Mountable Loudspeaker Car PA System is a 50-watt system that extends your voice with power. It easily mounts onto your car, truck, golf cart, or other vehicle with straps and suction cups so you can easily move it from vehicle to vehicle. Click on the link to see an informational video on the Sound Cruiser Car PA System.

Top 10 Hotel Management Tips for the Hospitality Industry

noreply@blogger.com (Kevin H) — Fri, 18 May 2012 09:40:00 +0000

The Hotel Industry is a fast-paced, high-pressure environment that takes a whole network of workers and departments to keep everything running smoothly.

Serving a variety of purposes, hotels have the opportunity to provide customers with a great, memorable experience--or be a dark spot on an otherwise great trip.

Hotel managers have the task of ensuring customers are satisfied and overseeing all of the different activities and departments of a hotel: banquet hall, restaurant, conference center, tourist attraction, fitness center, spa/wellness center, and more.

Here are the Top 10 Tips for Managing a Hotel:

10. Build and lead a great team. As a hotel manager, you are only as good as the team around you. That is why forming and fostering a great team is of utmost importance.

This means you need to hire people with the right skills, attitude and character that will help your team achieve your goals.

Focus on developing a company culture that reflects the goals of the company. Connect with workers and be present in the life of the hotel. As a manager, a compliment and a smile go a long way to developing a positive team environment.

9. Always learning and improving. Hotel managers are often a jack-of-all-trades because their position forces them to be: business manager, recruiter, teacher, trainer, cleaner, crowd controller, bartender, the list goes on!

If you do not already have an attitude ready to learn and innovate, you need to work at developing that as quickly as possible. Developing a keen eye to spot problems and areas of weakness will greatly allow your hotel to continue improving and ensure your ability to offer a satisfactory customer experience. Taking hotel management classes or sitting through training may be the best options for those wanting to know how to manage a hotel.

8. Greet your guests. Be present to those staying in your hotel and take every opportunity you have to give your guests the impression that you are on their side, ready to ensure a great experience.

The classic rock song Hotel California captures the power of a good first impression of a hotel manager, "There she stood in the doorway // I heard the mission bell // And I was thinking to myself // This could be Heaven or this could be Hell."

7. Be Prepared for Emergencies.


The Radio Hailer Emergency Communication System

With the possibility of hundreds or even thousands of people staying in your hotel, it is important that you have a clear plan for emergencies. This includes evacuation procedures clearly marked in each room as well as a communication plan for any type of emergency.

Because the availability of electricity is not always an option during these situations, it is important to have a communication channel that is not dependent on electricity. A battery-powered Portable Public Address System is the perfect option.

The Radio Hailer Emergency Communication System from AmpliVox allows users to communicate over a mile and to an audience of up to 5,000 people, while the Safety Strobe Megaphone will record your emergency message and play it back amplified.

6. Strategic Business Relationships. When running a business or organization, there is nothing as powerful as a mutually-beneficial business relationship. Brainstorm partnerships you can form and benefits you can offer the potential partner, and then go for it!

Whether it be offering guests coupons to a local restaurant, offering discounts through tourist destinations, or partnering with local universities and corporations, strategic business relationships can be a powerful way to ensure a constant stream of people are coming through your doors.

5. Be internet savvy. There are several reasons why hotel and restaurant management professionals need to be web savvy.

The main three reasons are:

1. Hotel Marketing: All hoteliers want to know how to better market and brand themselves.

Using social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, & YouTube is great way to connect with potential customers. An example of a useful YouTube video is to make a two-minute video that captures the top 5 reasons your hotel rocks!
Make your website locally optimized for search. This is an easy way to connect your hotel to those looking for a hotel in your specific area. Submitting your hotel's address and website on Google Maps and Places will pay dividends for years to come.

2. Customer Service: More and more hotel reservations are booked online. For the convenience of your guests, offer online booking, and make sure your hotel is listed on sites like Expedia, Kayak, and Priceline. Connect your hotel management system to your online booking program and you are able to automatically build an email list for email marketing.

3. Reputation Management: Often times a small fraction of customers who had a bad experience are more likely to write a negative review than the overwhelming majority who had a great experience. This can pose to be a problem for those in hotel and tourism management. Being aware of this and taking steps to fight this potential danger is imperative. Try offering incentive for guests to review your hotel on Yelp, TripAdvisor, and other sites where reviews are posted and respond to certain complaints professionally.

The Victoria Lectern at Awards Ceremony

4. Have the right equipment. Hotels need to have the right hotel supplies to be able to maintain their business and daily activities. It is important to have a hotel management software systems, transportation for airport shuttles, the right lecterns and podiums in your conference room, and the right public address systems within the hotel.

The Victoria Solid Hardwood Multimedia Lectern from AmpliVox is the perfect addition to any meeting or conference room. The classic style, multimedia functionality, optional built-in sound system, and portability makes the Victoria a favorite among hoteliers and presenters alike.

Some guests look for any reason to complain--take that away by having the right equipment!

3. Boundaries. Because being a hotel manager is a 24/7/365 position, you need to make sure you have the right boundaries in place so your job doesn't overtake the rest of your life. You owe it to your family, friends, and health to block out time for important people in your life as well as time for yourself.

Consequences of a failure to set boundaries: being burnt out and not enjoying anything you do.

2. The customer is always right. Always! Listen to complaints and don't just fix them, fix the root problem behind them. Turn the weakness into a strength by using the complaint as an opportunity to improve the way your hotel functions. Do everything you can to turn an upset guest's problem into a good story they will want to share of how you went above and beyond the call of duty to ensure their good experience.

How do you like being treated when you are a guest?

1. Have fun! As a manager, it may seem like you have a never ending list of things to do. Enjoy your guests, enjoy your staff, and enjoy your work.

Good attitudes rub off on those around you, and as a hotel manager you have a great opportunity to impact and influence your work environment and to foster hard work and fun.

Related Posts:
Restaurant Audio: Custom Mountable Speaker Kits
Restaurant Hostess Stands, PA Systems, and Valet Parking Stands

What are your most helpful tips? Leave them in a comment below!

Big Book of AV Tour 2012 Chicago Exhibitor

noreply@blogger.com (Kevin H) — Wed, 16 May 2012 15:05:00 +0000

AmpliVox will be at the Big Book of AV Tour!

Date: Tuesday May 22

Event Venue:DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Chicago - Arlington Heights
75 West Algonquin Road Arlington Heights, IL 60005

If you will be there, stop by the AmpliVox booth to say hi!

Blog: Big Book of AV Tour 2010

Hotel Banquet Hall PA Systems Sound

noreply@blogger.com (Kevin H) — Tue, 15 May 2012 12:20:00 +0000

AmpliVox Sound Systems offers flexible and versatile portable sound systems that go from a 5-watt waistband system up to a powerful 250-watt system that will fill a room size of up to 25,000 square feet. Our systems are easily compatible with MP3 players (iPod, iPhone, smartphone), guitars and basses, and CD's just to name a few options.

Voice Carrier System:
This 50-watt stereo system incorporates four Jensen Design speakers in two classy carpeted speaker boxes. With an unheard of 200 hours of battery life, a wireless range of up to 500 feet, and an industry leading 6-year warranty, this system will be a favorite of yours for years to come.
Video: How to Set up the Voice Carrier PA System

iPod Portable PA System:
The SW720 is the easiest way on the market to project your voice and iPod music! This system allows you to be your own DJ by projecting your voice over a 30-watt system and choose the music from your own iPod, iPhone, or other Mp3 player. The Voice Priority Feature makes it so when you talk over the music, the music automatically cuts out! It features a DVD video-out port which means you can connect this to a projector to project movies onto a projector screen!
Video: iPod Portable PA System

Titan Wireless PA System:
This 100-watt system has a remote control, a compartment to recharge batteries, and a compartment to easily store your presentation supplies. With many wireless microphone options, this is a great system for any banquet hall. The system features a CD player with variable pitch, SD and USB slots to play audio, a case, and a one -year warranty. Click here to see a video on the Titan! This product and the next one would be great systems for live music!
Video: Titan Wireless PA System

Digital Audio Travel Partner:
This system is AmpliVox’s most powerful and versatile product. It features a potent 250-watt amplifier, a lightweight design, wireless microphone options, 3 expansion slots, and the peace of mind that comes with a six year warranty. This product has too many qualities and uses for it, please click on the product name or visit the Digital Audio Travel Partner YouTube playlist for more information.

Another option is to make your own Custom PA System. Piece together your own system with our many horn and speaker options and mount them on the wall or ceiling with special mounting brackets.
For more information on our custom systems, please watch the video: Custom Mountable Speaker Systems

If you would like to purchase an AmpliVox PA System, please visit Ampli.com or call us at 800-267-5486.

Radio Hailer Emergency Communication System Demo

noreply@blogger.com (Amplivox) — Fri, 11 May 2012 11:56:00 +0000

The Radio Hailer Emergency Communication System from AmpliVox is designed to allow users to be up to one mile away from the horn speaker and still communicate clearly.

The video below showcases several sample applications for the Radio Hailer Emergency Communication System.

More information on the Radio Hailer Emergency Communication System.

Top 10 Uses of AmpliVox Products

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Kreusch) — Tue, 08 May 2012 12:00:00 +0000

AmpliVox is a diverse company. We make many different products that can be used in a number of different ways. Our products can be used in your neighborhood elementary school, in the event of an emergency, in a business meeting or even at a large outdoor event. The list goes on and on and the following is a list of the top ten uses of our products.

1. Schools: In a classroom where the teacher is not up to date on the latest technology, things can get rather boring in a hurry. Here at AmpliVox we have a wide range of products that will help make learning fun and have the students get something out of school so that when they get home and they get asked by their parents "What did you do in school today?" They can say that they learned a lesson through an iPod which is rather unique.
Product: SL1005 Digital iPod Audio Listening Center. Our iPod learning center will make learning all more enjoyable and make your classroom a much more interactive one.

Blog: The Best School Portable PA Systems
Blog: The Best School Lecterns and Podiums

2. Emergencies: Our products here at AmpliVox can also be used in an emergency setting as well. In emergency situations it is important to be able to communicate with the people that are in danger or are near danger.
Product: SW6200 Radio Hailer. With our Radio Hailer, the police, firefighters and paramedics will be able to communicate much better.

Blog: Emergency Planning

3. Business Conferences: We offer many products that can be used at Business type meetings and conferences. For important events such as Business Conferences there needs to be a type of podium that stands out with elegance and class.

Product: Ambassador Lectern . With this product your meetings will go by Much smoother because it has a dynamic hot mic and it lets you speak up to eighteen inches away from the mic. That lets the speaker be able to focus on making the speech without having to worry about the volume of their voice.

Blog : AmpliVox Donates Lectern to Fresh Start of Illinois

4. Large Outdoor Events : If you are planning a big event outdoors with a large amount of people than we have the perfect thing for you!
Product: SW800 - Titan Wireless Portable PA With this product the leaders of the event that is being hosted can communicate to those in attendance as well as play music. It has a simple set up and is easy to move from one location to the next.
Blog: Portable PA System Used at Large Outdoor Event

5. Sports: Are you a coach for a local sports team and need help communicating to a large number of people? Or do you work at health and fitness club and need help communicating to a group of people while running an aerobics or workout class? Say no more, AmpliVox is here to help. We have plenty of wireless microphones and headset microphones to make easier to communicate to your people.
Product: S1658 - S222 - Audio Portable Buddy With the Audio Portable buddy is that you can be heard from 700 feet away.
Video: Portable PA Systems for Indoor/Outdoor Sports

6. Presentations: Do you have a big school or business presentation coming up? Not to worry AmpliVox comes to the rescue yet again. We have many options to help you choose from whether it be a lectern or a podium, whatever suits your needs best. Product: SN3085 - Clear Acrylic Tabletop Lectern. The Clear Acrylic Table Top Lectern has a very clean and clear look to it.
Blog Posts Labeled: Presentation Tips

7. Politics: In the more recent past as politicians are making big and important speeches they have used AmpliVox products in these speeches. Politicians such as President Barack Obama, former Governor of Alaska Sarah Palin and former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice have been seen using our podiums and megaphones in important speeches during their political careers.
Product: SN3250 - Pinnacle Multimedia Lectern. The Pinnacle Multimedia Lectern is great to be used indoors and out, it's durable and moves easily around to wherever you need it to go.
Blog: Republicans and Democrats Agree on Something: AmpliVox!

8. Ceremonies When there is a large group of people coming together to celebrate a major event, communication is important. The people at the event want to be able to hear who is talking.
Product: Victoria Solid Wood Table Top Lectern SW3035. This product has a wireless sound system so communicating with a rather large audience at a ceremony of sorts will be that much easier. This product was made for the most elegant and sophisticated occasions. It also has a drop top reading table which makes it easy to use with a laptop or any other kinds of electronic devices.
Blog : Personal PA System used at Wedding Ceremony

9. Farmers Markets/Trade Shows : If you are to be successful at a farmers market or a trade show you need to be loud, energetic and enthusiastic. With the BeltBlaster strapped around your waist it makes it that much easier to be heard and get a lot of traffic to your booth.
Product: BeltBlaster S206. It is lightweight and will help save your voice from getting tired after a long day of talking to customers and endorsing your product(s).
Blog : School Equipment Trade Show

10. Parades: Loud, clear, crisp on the go speaking is essential in large gathering of people. Especially, in parades with large vehicles and floats moving around.
Product: Sound Cruiser S312 Not only will this product help make events such as parades go by easier but it is very simple and easy to set up. It attaches to the roof of the vehicle and can be charge by a battery or plugged into the cigarette lighter in the car.

Blog : PA Systems for Parades

Honorable Mention:
Office Communication: At AmpliVox we have many different portable sound systems. To make it easier to communicate in an office setting our portable megaphones would come in handy. If someone is not answering their office phone then to get their attention, use the megaphone. Although it may be a bit of an annoyance the megaphones we have would be very practical for your office.
Product: S601 Mity-Meg 15-Watt Megaphone.

10 Ways to Use iPods in the Classroom

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Kreusch) — Fri, 04 May 2012 14:59:00 +0000

Since the beginning of time the way people have learned and absorbed useful information has changed in many ways. Today's educational opportunities through new technology and abundant resources are a drastic change from previous generations.

Although still used today, educational resources such as textbooks have become secondary resources next to using computers, and other technology. The iPod has made the way students learn in school much more enjoyable and innovative. Emerging technologies like the iPod is making the old ways of teaching a thing of the past.

The following list is the top ten ways to use iPods in the classroom:

1. Find The Missing Song Lyrics: Chances are you learned the alphabet through a song. That is because songs are a powerful way to ingrain words and ideas in a student's head.

This type of activity is especially popular in foreign language classes. A teacher can put a song on an iPod in whatever the language they are being taught. The teacher then can print out the lyrics for the song, with selected words being removed, and then finally the teacher can play the song and have the students listen to the song. After they listen to the song or while they are listening they can determine the missing words to the song.

2. Audio Books: These are newer version of books on tape or books on cassette. These can be used for all types of situations. If students are maybe falling behind the others or want to get ahead and would rather listen to the book to get more out of it they can listen to the book on an iPod through headphones or a listening center.

Not just individual students can use the audio books, but the teacher can make it so that the entire class does as well. This would be very practical if the teacher lost his or her voice and she still wanted the kids to read as a group. Just play the iPod through a listening center and you're good to go.

3. Audio Book Part 2: Do you struggle encouraging creative writing?
Have the students listen to a book on tape but stop it at a certain point. Do not let them listen to the ending of a chapter or a book.

Instead of having them hear the ending have them write there own ending first. This will spark creativity into their heads and will make them even more interested in how it was originally written to end. The perfect listening center for audio books, sing-a-longs and teaching song lyrics is Digital iPod Listening Center from AmpliVox

4. iPod Voice Recorder: The most natural way to develop language and pronunciation skills is through listening to proper pronunciation and practicing it themselves. The voice recorder can be used with kids that are learning a new language, or kids with speech problems.

The speech teacher can record the way that the word or phrase is properly pronounced. Then, the student can listen to how it is pronounced and practice saying it the proper way. By recording themselves saying it over and over they can hopefully learn the proper way to say it.

5. Use In an Amplified Classroom : The iPod Portable PA System from AmpliVox is perfect to be used in a classroom setting. This product can be used with the iPod Touch, iPhone, iPod Classic, and iPod Nano. It is a versatile product and can be used in many different ways.

One great way this product can be used is for showing a movie because it also has a built in DVD player and the system has a wireless microphone. The ducking feature allows presenters to speak over music or a movie that is being played through the PA system.

Blog Post: Amplified Classroom Statistics
Product Video: iPod PA System

6. Study Tools: To further gain more knowledge, students may turn to study tools like iPhone Apps or SparkNotes. For a while they were solely available on the internet but now they can be purchased as an iPod application as well.

Study tools like SparkNotes are a good way of helping get a better grasp of what a chapter was about or get more information about a literary character.

7. Educational Podcasts: This is especially popular with college students. Sometimes your professor talks too fast for your comfort or maybe it was just very hard to pay attention one way and did not jot everything down.

Not every school does this but some schools fortunately enough some have schools have allowed professors to post the audio version of a lecture. What a useful tool this can be for students and teachers.

8. Testing Listening: Listening not to be confused with hearing, is something that needs to be taught and reinforced on how important it is at an early age. To test out children's listening skills, teachers could put a basic listening test on an iPod and have each student take it.

Whether it is on their own with headphones in or with an amplified iPod listening center, the main component with the listening test is to make sure that they following the directions and listening to what it is
telling them to do.

9. Drawing: Have your students listen to a piece of music or a song. After listening have them draw what they listened too. There is no right or wrong way to do this exercise. This would be perfect for an art or creative drawing class.

10. Reward: This would again fall under the category for the younger aged students. Reward the children for good behavior, good grade on a test or quiz even. Reward the student who earned the right to use the iPod and it will then encourage the other students to prepare better for the next quiz.

How do you use iPods in the classroom? Share in a comment!

Blog: Top Ten Reasons to Use Technology in the Classroom
Blog: 15 Brilliant Albert Einstein Quotes on Education
Video: Top Ten Classroom Management Tips for Teachers

Image Credits: Jarret , wlibrary, UNHCR, Mountain Mike , petesahut_ph13166, Rock Star2005, Orange_Beard, lara , jasonr611

How to Choose a PA System: Wireless, Features, Audience Size, Coverage

noreply@blogger.com (Kevin H) — Thu, 03 May 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Do you need to buy a Public Address System for your school, business, or organization? It can be a tough task to pick the right PA system with so many different sizes and features available.

The following tips will help you narrow down the competition and find what system will best meet your needs:

1. Portable or Stationary?
Do you need to use your Sound System indoors, outdoors, or both? Are there a variety of activities that you could use a Public Address System for? If you answered "yes" to either of those questions, then you should choose a portable system. Portable sound systems give the planner and presenter the versatility to easily move your system wherever you want.

Many portable pa systems include rechargeable batteries and AC power options. This is a must for outdoor events like cross country meets and parades because it allows you to follow the action without tripping over wires, scouting out electrical outlets, or untangling pesky wires. [Battery Powered PA Systems]

2. Estimate your Audience Size
Portable PA systems reach anywhere from 50 to 7500 people (in optimal conditions). Formulate a good estimate on the number of people you want to cover. It is always better to overestimate than underestimate because you can always turn down the volume on the bigger, louder, PA systems.

[Browse PA Systems by Audience Size]

3. Estimate the desired area of Coverage
Top of the line systems can cover anywhere from 600 square feet to 25,000 square feet with one device (additional speakers add more coverage).

Remember: Just like estimating audience size, it is better to error on the side of overestimating.

4. Determine Desired Features
Portable PA Systems offer a wide variety of options including audio accessibility (iPod/iPhone, MP3 Player, CD players/recorders...) and microphone options. Mic options include the type of mic (wireless, handheld, lapel, headset, etc) and how many wireless mics are able to be used simultaneously. Volume and tone controls are pretty standard. Many systems have additional features like a Voice Priority Feature that dulls down music when speaking into the mic.

A warranty is another thing to consider. AmpliVox offers an industry-leading 6 year warranty on many of our easy to use PA Systems.

5. Research.
It is important to diligently search for a good PA system that will meet your needs and will be worth the investment purchasing a quality system. Looking for customer reviews, testimonials, and warranty options are great ways to ensure that you are getting the best quality system available. It is not strange to hear about a PA system that has lasted over fifteen years.

[Watch AmpliVox Review Videos on YouTube ]

With all of these tips in mind, a savvy consumer should have all of the tools and knowledge they need to make the right purchase.

AmpliVox offers a wide variety of Portable PA Systems from crowd sizes of 10 to 10,000, offering rechargeable batteries, wireless microphone options, while also featuring flexible audio connectivity.

Good luck in choosing a PA system!

AmpliVox Portable PA Systems
AmpliVox on YouTube

Social Media and the Art of Cause Marketing

noreply@blogger.com (Amplivox) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 16:24:00 +0000

On Wednesday April 18th, 2012 the Business Marketing Association of Chicago hosted a breakfast seminar called "Social Media and the Art of Cause Marketing."

BMA Chicago hosted the event and invited companies that engage in cause marketing initiatives to share their success story and how they used social networking to help an important cause and generate brand awareness.

What is Cause Marketing? Cause Marketing refers to a type of marketing involving the cooperative efforts of a "for profit" business and a non-profit organization for mutual benefit.

AmpliVox Sound Systems had the opportunity to present the Pink Podium Promise which has been able to bless several hundred breast cancer awareness events across the country.

[Video: The Story Behind the Pink Podium ]

Other presenters included McGladrey Consulting as well as Got Autism?

Here is an edited video of Don Roth's contribution to the event:

The four-part video below showcases the event.

AmpliVox Twitter Follower Map

noreply@blogger.com (Amplivox) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:18:00 +0000

The picture below is a map that shows where people live who follow @AmpliVox Portable Sound Systems on Twitter.

You may have not know, but AmpliVox ships internationally!

AmpliVox is on Google+!

AmpliVox Powers "Modern Family" with Battery Powered Car PA System

noreply@blogger.com (Kevin H) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 16:03:00 +0000

Recently, the popular television show "Modern Family" had an episode titled "Election Day." The episode involves the quirky character Claire running for public office.

Naturally on election day, her campaign team needed a clear and powerful way to communicate their campaign message. They turned to the Quad-Horn Sound Cruiser from AmpliVox Sound Systems.

During the episode, Cameron and Mitchell drive around town promoting Claire's campaign and also have a little fun with the crystal clear sound that the Sound Cruiser provides.

One of the best lines in the episode is after Cameron and Mitchell realize the awesome communication power of the Sound Cruiser and say,

"It is an instrument of power!"

AmpliVox Powers 'Modern Family' from AmpliVox Sound Systems on Vimeo.

Throughout the episode, there are several clear shots of the S805 PA Amplifer and microphone that comes with the Sound Cruiser sitting on the dashboard.

The featured Sound Cruiser is a vintage one that bears witness to the long-lasting quality of AmpliVox PA Systems. We believe in the superior quality of the Sound Cruiser so much that we back it up with an industry-leading 6 year warranty!

The Sound Cruiser is either powered with rechargeable batteries or with a DC car adapter, plugging into the cigarette lighter.

This is not the first time the Sound Cruiser has been in the public eye:

Congressman Robert Dold used the Sound Cruiser during his recent campaign
YouTube Comedian Edbassmaster used our Car PA System for Pranks in "Look at This Sound Cruiser" Video.

To view the full episode "Election Day" click on the link.

Related Links:

Blog: Vintage Sound Cruiser Car PA System
Video: How to Choose the Right Size PA System
Video: How to Set up Car PA System

LED Podium/Lectern Lamps Free from AmpliVox!

noreply@blogger.com (Kevin F.) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 12:30:00 +0000

AmpliVox is now giving away a podium lamp with every lectern now purchased. This lectern lamp can be placed on the top of a lectern to help shed some light on the presenters notes. It can be useful in hardly lit rooms.

It is battery operated and powered by 12 mini LED lights for a natural lighting.

It has a sturdy base with a flexible metal arm to fit the needs of the presenter.
It has a low profile to not get in the way of the presenter's notes or gestures during the speech. This would make a great podium lamp for any occasion. Don't Worry about the lighting in the room you are presenting in, we have you covered.

If you would like one of these lamps with your podium for free, please mention it when completing your order.

We also offer more Lectern Lamps at Ampli.com.

View our Lecterns, Podiums, and Pulpits Playlist on YouTube for more information about our products.

PA Systems for Boats: Speedboats, Pontoons, And, Sailboats

noreply@blogger.com (Kevin F.) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 12:50:00 +0000

AmpliVox offers many products useful to boaters in emergency situations for enhanced communication across long distances. If you ever need to communicate with emergency personal, other boats or people on a dock.

The Half Mile Hailer is a great option. It has a range capable of a half mile. It would be very helpful in an emergency situation to relay your message to fellow boaters, on-lookers, or medical assistance. Weather resistance is one of its key qualities. Don't worry if it rains or if the system gets wet. It will still power through all the elements thrown at it.

The Sound Cruiser can be attached to your boat and be used in all kinds of situations. Need to send a message to a mass amount of people but stuck in your car? Take a look at the Sound Cruiser. It is a duel horn/PA system that can mount on the top of your vehicle to ensure that your voice will be heard. Larry G. from the Kansas City area shared his experience with us.

"It rained continuously for 40 hours in varying amounts. When it became imperative to alert our campers of the flood warnings and the developing hazards the only way we had was to use the Sound Cruiser public address system. Lives and property may have been spared because of the alert. Some of the campers sheltering in their RV's had no idea of the rising waters. I relate this event because an integral part of our warning was the Sound Cruiser public address system."

AmpliVox offers a variety of Megaphones which can vary in use. They would make a great way to communicate with a water skier or other water vessels. All of the megaphones offer 20+ hours of talk time with some exceeding 40 hours. None of the megaphones exceed 2lbs so they are lightweight and portable.

We also offer products that would be great for music listening. What is better then kicking back in the sun, on the water, while listing to some great music, with all your friends. Bring the party to your water bound vessel with these AmpliVox products.

The Ipod Wireless PA System is a great choice for bring some of your favorite songs out on the water with you. It is battery powered so charge it and bring it out on the boat. Recharge your iPod while it is docked on the PA system. It also has a voice priority system built in, so if your are listening to music and talk into the mic the music will automatically lower in volume.

The Mity-Vox is a smaller alternative. If you have minimal space on your sailboat or speed boat this is the PA system you are looking for. It is smaller in size and it is very portable. It still is powerful enough for your you and all your guests to hear.

These products can save your life and be the life of the party. Please visit Ampli.com to learn more about all of these products.

Related Links:

Alternative to a DJ: AmpliVox Portable PA Systems | Disc Jockey Hire

Yet ANOTHER Positive Half-Mile Hailer Customer Review

The Best School Lecterns and Podiums: Durable, Portable, Sound Systems Optional

noreply@blogger.com (Amplivox) — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Schools need quality lecterns for a variety of activities: school assemblies, public speaking presentations, and outdoor activities like graduations.

AmpliVox Sound Systems has a wide range of high quality of lecterns great for any school. All of our podiums are built with portability in mind, moving easily on rolling casters and running on built in rechargeable batteries. These lecterns offer sound options, plugging into your in house sound system or coming with a wireless sound system built in.

The S505A Adjustable Height Sound Column Lectern is ideal for settings where speakers vary in height. This lectern easily adjusts from 39” to 45” to accommodate the height of the speaker and also boasts an optional 50 watt sound system that projects your voice over your audience with crystal clear sound.

The S3230 Multimedia Smart Computer Lectern is the ideal piece of furniture to house your technology securely while giving presenters a stylish lectern to present from. The locking cabinet provides a secure location for your belongings, the drop-lock side shelf is made for overhead LCD projectors, and the large work surface is great for laptops and presentation notes. Available with an optional sound system, this is the perfect podium to serve a variety of purposes in a classroom.

The S3250 Pinnacle Multimedia Lectern is a school favorite because of its durability, lightweight design that is both water and weatherproof, and its portability. Perfect for presentations indoors or out, the Pinnacle comes with a 12 year warranty on the shell and a 6 year warranty on electronics. Custom color and logo models are available upon request (show picture of collegiate multimedia podiums).

The SW124 Roving Rostrum Podium PA System is a great way to project your voice during a presentation or class lecture. The durable plastic casing takes a beating and makes this a durable lightweight addition to your classroom. Project your voice to over 1500 people with ease.

This is just one of the many tabletop lectern options that AmpliVox offers.

Related Links:
AmpliVox Education Blogs
Blog: Top 10 Classroom Management Tips for Teachers
Blog: Presidential Podium Used at School Assembly
Video: Top 10 Reasons to Use Technology in Education

Infographic: The History of Education and Technology #edtech

noreply@blogger.com (Amplivox) — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Technology can be an invaluable resource for educators trying to reach their students with relevant teaching tools and programs. This blog has already addressed 10 Reasons for Integrating Technology in the Classroom and would now like to share the following infographic on the History of Education & Technology.

Starting with cavemen and moving towards the rapidly progressing present, this infographic shares different trends in teaching along with relevant statistics.

Tell us what you think in a comment!

Inforgraphic courtesy of dailyinfographic.com

Related Links You Will Enjoy:
Blog: Amplified Classroom Statistics: Speakers in the Classroom
Blog: School Listening Centers from AmpliVox
Blog: 15 Brilliant Albert Einstein Quotes on Education
Video: Top 10 Classroom Management Tips for Teachers

AmpliVox MityMeg Megaphone Used to Welcome Home Troops

noreply@blogger.com (Amplivox) — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 07:33:00 +0000

NBC Nightly News recently aired a story on a volunteer program in Dallas, Texas, called "Welcome Home A Hero" that would greet American soldiers as they returned from service in Afghanistan. In order to best organize volunteers and give soldiers the biggest welcome, event coordinators turned to the AmpliVox MityMeg Plus S602 megaphone with detachable mic.

The video below is a heartwarming video that showcases the well wishing and good work done by the "Welcome Home A Hero" folks. If you skip to the 1:52 mark in the video you will see the AmpliVox Megaphone!

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Albert Einstein Quotes on Education: 15 of His Best Quotes

noreply@blogger.com (Kevin H) — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 20:13:00 +0000

German Physicist Albert Einstein is known for being a genius and his name is even a moniker for a brilliant person (or in sarcasm, a less than brilliant person).

He is famous for his Theory of Relativity as well as intellectual inventions like E=MC2. Many think of him as the father of modern physics and one of the more intelligent people in recent history.

His brilliance is an inspiration to the scientific and educational communities alike. Being an academic, he gave some good insight into the education process.

We compiled a list of his 15 most "tweetable" quotes on Education and Science:

Do not worry about your difficulties in Mathematics. I can assure you mine are still greater.
Albert Einstein [Tweet this]

Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school.
Albert Einstein
[Tweet this]

I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious.
Albert Einstein
[Tweet this]

A person who never made a mistake never tried anything new.
Albert Einstein

[Tweet this]

If you can't explain it simply, you don't understand it well enough.
Albert Einstein

[Tweet this]

Imagination is everything. It is the preview of life's coming attractions.
Albert Einstein

[Tweet this]

Imagination is more important than knowledge.
Albert Einstein

[Tweet this]

Intellectual growth should commence at birth and cease only at death.
Albert Einstein

[Tweet this]

It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.
Albert Einstein

[Tweet this]

Knowledge of what is does not open the door directly to what should be.
Albert Einstein

[Tweet this]

Most people say that is it is the intellect which makes a great scientist. They are wrong: it is character.
Albert Einstein

[Tweet this]

Only two things are infinite, the universe and human stupidity, and I'm not sure about the former.
Albert Einstein

[Tweet this]

Pure mathematics is, in its way, the poetry of logical ideas.
Albert Einstein

[Tweet this]

Reading, after a certain age, diverts the mind too much from its creative pursuits. Any man who reads too much and uses his own brain too little falls into lazy habits of thinking.
Albert Einstein

The only source of knowledge is experience.
Albert Einstein
[Tweet this]

The only thing that interferes with my learning is my education.
Albert Einstein

[Tweet this]

Liked this post? [Tweet] it!

by Kevin Halloran

More Great Education Links:
Product: The Revolutionary Radio Hailer Emergency Communication System
Blog: Top 10 Reasons to Use Technology in Education
Blog: Top 10 Classroom Management Tips for Teachers

Image Credits: rlerdorf, La Melodie, sfjalar

Magician Loves AmpliVox iPod Portable PA System for Show's Live Sound!

noreply@blogger.com (Kevin H) — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 12:18:00 +0000

Our magician friend Anthony recently posted this video describing his love for the iPod Portable PA System from AmpliVox. He uses this system during his magic show presentations and is able to reach a large audience with his show.

This music pa system features crystal clear booming audio and a built-in rechargeable battery.

Anthony gives advice to help answer the question of which sound system you should buy!

Here is another customer review (a magician also!) who loves the AmpliVox BeltBlaster:

Valet Stands For Valet Parking Services

noreply@blogger.com (Kevin F.) — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 12:01:00 +0000

A valet stand can create a good or bad first impression. The first thing a customer might see is the lectern outside of your establishment. Why waste a perfect opportunity to make a good impression? AmpliVox can help you make your best first impression. We offer a variety of lecterns to accomplish this.

The Presidential Plus Lectern is a great choice for a valet stand. It features 4 heavy duty swivel casters for easy movement, a large top for notes, and a large storage space to keep the customer's keys in. This lectern also has an optional sound system to help your voice to carry.

The Pinnacle Multimedia Hard Shell Plastic Lectern is a good weather proof option. For proof watch this video (Will It Float Pinnacle Lectern). This lectern is durable, water resistant, and redesigned for a sharp look. This particular lectern has a 12 year limited warranty on the shell and a 6 year warranty on the optional electronics. (See the Pinnacle Tabletop Lectern as another option)

The Full Height Wooden Lectern is durable and will get the job done. It is cost efficient and it will withstand the abuse thrown at it. It is also available in two different colors medium oak and mahogany. This one piece, full height, great value lectern will be a great purchase for any restaurant.

The Patriot Plus Wood lectern will wow your customers at first sight. Being used multiple times by white house members such as the president himself, this lectern has shown its worth. It is elegant yet sturdy enough to last the test of time.

Related Posts:

A ll Things Restaurant: Hostess Stands, PA Systems, Valet Stands from AmpliVox

Video: 8 Restaurant Hostess Tips

School Listening Centers and Stations with Head phones, Splitters and a List of Ideas and Resources

noreply@blogger.com (Kevin H) — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 12:05:00 +0000

Digital Audio iPod Listening Center

Do you want your students to be active participants in the learning process?

Do you want many opportunities for students to interact with their teacher?

A listening center gives teachers and students a great avenue for unlimited interaction and an engaging way for students to learn to read, learn a language, or be apart of a special needs learning environment.

Listening centers unite several different technologies like microphones, headphones, audio players, and recorders in a seamless way that allows students to concentrate on their schoolwork while participating in dynamic learning activities. These systems allow 6 students to listen to their assignment without bothering or being distracted by other students while working at their own pace.

This system has volume control for each station, 6 personal sized headphones with volume control, and a gold-plated headphone adapter. The Top loading CD player and recorder with AM/FM radio and LED display auto stop cassette recorder is a great addition to any classroom. it operates on AC/DC power or 8 D-Cell batteries and is protected in a tough plastic carrying case.

AmpliVox Models:

Digital Audio iPod Listening Center Bundle

Digital Audio iPod Listening Center and Bundle

Includes the exciting NEW digital iPod Audio Listening Center. Provides iPod docking, amplified speakers and a 6 station listening center in a compact package that's perfect for every classroom.

Connect an iPod with dock connector or iPhone and get power and crystal clear audio. Line in connection allows any stereo audio device to utilize the amplified speakers or headphone jacks.


Deluxe 6 Station Listening Center

Deluxe 6 Station Listening Center

Stereo 6-station jack box with volume control for each station. 6 Stereo/Mon headphones with volume control for each ear, soft leatherette ear cushions and padded headband covers. CD Player Boombox, top loading CD player with AM/FM stereo tuner and LED display. Full auto stop cassette recorder.

Records from CD and radio. 110/220V dual voltage, UL listed for safety. Operates on AC/DC power or 8 D-cell batteries (not included).


Personal 6 Station Listening Center

Personal 6 Station Listening Center

6-station jack box with volume control for each station. 6 personal sized headphones with volume control and screw-on 1/4" adapter with gold plating. CD Player Boombox with top loading CD player with AM/FM stereo tuner and LED display.

Full auto stop cassette recorder. Records from CD and radio. 110/220V dual voltage, UL listed for safety. Operates on AC/DC power or 8 D-cell batteries (not included).

Reviews and Testimonials:

Teacher Loves It!

"When teachers have to buy their own supplies and equipment due to the poor economy, we need good value and prices. This listening station is just the right thing for my classroom. It works well, the price was wonderful, and it came in such a short amount of time, I was able to begin using it right away. I have always had excellent results when ordering from Amazon, whether it be items for my classroom or personal items. Keep up the good work. Thanks, Amazon!
Teacher in Florida

Listening Center Ideas, Resources, Activities, and Tips:

Top 10 Ideas (from video below):

Read along with an audio book
Record Custom Activities
Test Auditory and Listening Skills
Use with iPad for Different Learning Styles
Learn Language Pronunciation
Supplement Activities with Worksheets
Have Students Respond with Journaling or Drawing
Use it as a Reward for Good Student Behavior
Have students record themselves for reading and pronunciation practice
Finish the ending: have students listen to first part of book then write their own endings

To buy an AmpliVox Listening Center, please visit: AmpliVox School Listening Centers and click "Add to Cart" or call (800)267-5486.

For more information, please read:
The AmpliVox iPod Listening Center Meets 4 Key Components for Learning through Technology
iPods in the Classroom: Products for Education

Here are some great resources and ideas from the web:
http://www.proteacher.net/discussions/showthread.php?p=744949
http://www.ehow.com/how_2263636_listening-center-activities.html
http://www.lessonplandiva.com/2011/05/freebie-10-page-listening-center.html

Article: Use of iPods in the Classroom
Video: Top 10 Reasons to Use Technology in the Classroom
Facebook: AmpliVox Portable Sound Systems and Lecterns

7 Tips for Making Yourself Look Like a Professional Presenter

noreply@blogger.com (Amplivox) — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 13:30:00 +0000

Professional Presentations need a professional image for the presenter.

Without the proper clothing, equipment, and overall look, listeners will be distracted or worse yet--not be able to hear your message at all!

(Click here for YouTube Videos on Professional Presentations)

Here are several tips to sharpen your presenting style:

1. Wear something comfortable. Everyone has one or two pieces of clothing that fits perfectly, looks great, and is appropriate for your setting. Wear it!
2. Not too Flashy Though. Leave your parachute pants and leather wear at home. Make sure your clothing is neutral and not distracting. The longer the presentation, the more your audience will get distracted.
3. Minimize Distractions. With smart phones, windows, and daydreaming, people do not need any additional distractions like a speaker fumbling through their unorganized notes, lots of like verbal fillers and uh other distracting language, and messing with your sound system or microphone.
4. Have the Right Equipment. Public speaking equipment like lecterns, PA systems, and microphones are all necessary to communicate professionally and audibly. Having the right lectern with a built-in sound system will help the audience focus on the presenters words and not strain to hear their message.
5. Practice, Practice, Practice. The presenter needs to be free from reading notes and also practice enough to avoid surprises during the presentation. Try and avoid Murphy's Law (that if something can go wrong it will) by preparation.
6. Double Check. Before your presentation starts, make sure that everything is plugged in properly, that volume levels are at the proper level, and that your notes are in order and pages numbered (which helps if you drop your notes!). Go up to the podium or stage and scan the environment to make sure everything is ready to go.
7. Time to Present! Good luck!

Titan Wireless PA System in use at Sales Conference Awards Ceremony

noreply@blogger.com (Amplivox) — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 13:20:00 +0000

The AmpliVox Titan Wireless PA System was recently used in Canada to at a sales conference to announce vendor prizes.

Here are some shots of the Titan in action! The Titan PA System could be heard clearly and powerfully over the cheers of the crowd.

With the wireless microphone and rechargeable battery, there were no messy or tangled cords to worry about in setting up for the presentation.

Related Links:
Video: Titan Wireless PA System
Video: Titan Wireless PA System at Large Outdoor Event

PA Systems with a Custom Logo to Help Brand Your Organization

noreply@blogger.com (Kevin F.) — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 12:05:00 +0000

AmpliVox is doing more for you by offering customization on select products. Offering this can help you with one of the most important keys to company success: branding. Use these products at sponsored events such as a marathons, banquets, golf outings, or other events.

We offer customization on The Half Mile Hailer, The Mity-Meg, and, The Digital Audio Travel Partner. We also offer the same service on Lecterns.

Bring an AmpliVox custom product to your next event to extend your voice and to show off your companies logo. Buying from AmpliVox will not only get your message out clearly to your audience, it will also spread the name and logo of your company to all in attendance.

Branding is everything in the business world so why not use AmpliVox to help you out at your next event?

CALL AMPLIVOX AT (800) 267-5486 FOR MORE INFORMATION

Related Links:

Custom Logo and Wood Color for Your Organization's Lectern, Pulpit, and Podium.