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Monday, May 30, 2011

California Senators and Representatives Use Pinnacle Style Podium During Hearing


Back in February, a major legislature Bill came to the table in California calling for developed infrastructure that would help transport the citizens of California, with the idea of eventually helping the economy.  In such hard financial times, this is a contentious issue, and legislatures of California met to discuss the issue on February 23, 2011.

The LA Streets Blog had this to say about the event and bill:
"The dominant theme of the hearing was expanding and establishing federal financing programs to provide capital for major infrastructure projects such as Los Angeles’s 30/10 plan, an initiative to build 12 major transit projects in 10 years. The elected leaders and assembled experts lauded the proposed programs for their potential to rapidly stimulate job creation and economic growth."
The Federal Transportation Bill is the name of that bill dealing with emissions and improving transportation in the state of California.

To communicate their message with a professional appearance and full, rich sound, California's legislators turned to a durable podium with the Pinnacle style that is ideal for either indoor or outdoor use.  Amplivox's Pinnacle Podium offers a professional style to any presentation.

Did you know that Sarah Palin also used this style of lectern at a press conference?


Links:
Website: Suggested Products for Governmental Workers
Website: AmpliVox GSA Contract Information
Blog: How to Plan an Emergency Using Portable Sound Systems
Video: Barack Obama Makes Sure His Voice is Heard with AmpliVox Megaphone

Happy Memorial Day from AmpliVox Sound Systems!


We found this inspirational video on World War II veterans that we thought you would enjoy:



Have a great Memorial Day and don't forget to support our troops!

Blog: Standing By America: AmpliVox's Efforts to Keep Products Made in the USA
Blog: Cartoon of Barack Obama Congratulating Navy Seals

Thursday, May 26, 2011

PA Systems and Lecterns for Wedding Receptions and Event Halls



With wedding season right around the corner, many brides to be are making last minute preparations.  With so many different things to juggle like a guest list, cakes and decorations, and looking good for the big day, nobody wants the hassle of another potential problem to juggle in party planning--let alone another bill to pay.

AmpliVox Sound Systems offers several PA systems and lecterns that would benefit any banquet hall and wedding reception.


The following products we recommended:
  • iPod Wireless PA System -- This system is a 30-watt system that amplifies your iPod or iPhone and charges it at the same time!  This makes playing a playlist for your reception as easy as it can be with a remote control and built-in rechargeable battery.  With a wireless microphone and projector capabilities, this would be the ideal system for the MC to use to show a DVD slide show or play music for the bride and groom's first dance as a married couple!

    • Multimedia Hardshell Pinnacle Podium --This podium is an elegant piece of presentation equipment that is a perfect addition to any banquet hall or facility.  It is nearly indestructible and weatherproof: perfect for an indoor or outdoor environment.  The Wireless Model comes with a complete wireless 50-watt sound system built-in. Similar styles have been used by Sarah Palin and the California House of Representatives.



        • Digital Audio Travel Partner Bundle --Our popular Digital Audio Travel Partner PA System has several bundle options.  This 250-watt speaker system and additional speakers will fill a room and are incredibly lightweight and easy to set up.  Avoid hiring a wedding DJ and play your music through a pa system from AmpliVox. 
        Watch a video on how easy it is to set up a Digital Audio Travel Partner Bundle.




          These products are another good way to avoid trying to hire a pa announcer or get a party DJ.  Renting these items adds up quickly...if you are a venue that has weddings often, these would be a great investment in your business.  If you like dancing in the reception hall or for other events, these products are for you.  They also have long warranties (6 years) and long lasting, which translates into great resale value.

          For more information on wedding pa systems that can help your party planning, please visit Ampli.com or give us a call at (800)267-5486.


          These people famously used a sound system in their wedding ceremony!


          Click here to watch the Flash Mob Wedding Introduction Forever Video.
          Blog: Flash Mobs, Dangers of Flash Mobs, and Portable Sound Systems

          Wednesday, May 25, 2011

          Amplivox PA System Used at Cross Country Meet 2011


          Does your outdoor event need a PA system?  Do you hate shouting above crowd noise to tell them important information?  Are you unable to install permanent sound equipment for this event?

          If you are asking these questions, then you would benefit greatly from an Amplivox Portable Sound System.
          The system used in these photos was the Amplivox Travel Audio Pro (The Digital Audio Travel Partner is the new and improved version) PA System.

          The Digital Audio Travel Partner is a powerful 250-watt system that would be a great addition to any marathon, ironman triathlon, cross country race, track meet, whether it be at the middle school, high school, or college/NCAA university level.

          The DATP has a lot of additional options that make this PA system truly a team player.
          • Plug in an iPod or MP3 player to the Digital Audio Travel Partner
          • Expand with new technology using the available expansion slots
          • Use one of many optional wireless microphones
          Our loudspeaker equipment is a great way to extend live sound in any event and any place, even Hawaii!

          The DATP bundle is a large outdoor PA system kit that comes with a remote control and rechargeable batteries.




            Links:
            Blog: Testimonial of Track Starter Using Half-Mile Hailer PA System Kit at Meet
            Blog: Amplivox Supports USAT Ironman Triathlon and New York City Marathon
            Video: See Versatility with Tricked Out Digital Audio Travel Partner3
            Video: Amplivox Products for the Youth Sports Market

            Friday, May 20, 2011

            Police Save Lives with Amplivox Portable PA Sound System in Hostage Situation


            What would you do if you were suddenly held hostage by a crazed gunman?

            Would you panic?  Would you begin to plead with the gunman to let you go?  Would you wait for an opportunity to overpower the gunman?

            Unfortunately the heroic acts you see in the movies rarely turn out like they do on the silver screen.  The triple-whammy of adrenaline, panic, and lack of communication can cause the perpetrator to do things he or she hadn't planned on.

            Several years ago one of our PA systems was used by heroes in a hostage situation.  Here is what Daniel Sherwin Team Leader Crisis Negotiation Unit had to say:


            "The Wireless Half Mile Hailer we purchased from you was used on October 4, 2006 to end a 14 hour standoff between a 56-year-old man holding a 4-year-old boy Hostage in Texas. The Hailer was deployed by SWAT teams next to the house of the standoff. I was able to communicate through the Hailer using the wireless microphone from 700 or more feet away.


            Negotiators tried for ten hours prior to the Hailer's deployment to get the suspect to answer a throw phone deployed in the house. It was only after we deployed the Half Mile Hailer did we get a response." 
            Communication is key in tense and emergency situations and it is imperative that your voice and message is communicated above the noise.

            Only through using the Half-Mile Hailer did the Crisis Negotiation Unit find success in ending the standoff and bringing safety to the hostages.

             
            For more information on portable PA systems that can help in crisis situations, please visit Amplivox Sound Systems' website or call us at (800)-AMPLIVOX

            Wednesday, May 18, 2011

            New Product Spotlight. New & Improved Half-Mile Hailer PA System, Now With A Siren!


            As well as constantly introducing new products, Amplivox Sound Systems is continually looking to re-design and improve our existing products. The SW610A or Half Mile Hailer has been an Amplivox best seller since its introduction. Its simple, straight forward controls makes it easy for anyone to use. It's weather resistant tapered horn and amplifier allows you to be heard even in the rain. You can be heard clearly up to a half mile away (805 meters). Easily cover a football, baseball or soccer field which makes it ideal for large crowds and high noise environments.

            Now with the addition of a siren you can be sure your noticed in an emergency situation. The loud siren will give your emergency response team or crowd control the advantage of grabbing the attention of anyone around. You will be able to give directions with ease and be able to gain control of the situation before it escalates.

            Also help your school meet the No Child Left Behind Act with the Half Mile Hailer. Let Amplivox help you provide a safe learning environment.


            Related Links:

            Monday, May 16, 2011

            Suggested Products for State and National Parks and Recreation Centers: Loudspeakers


            Winters in cold-weather climates are sometimes harsh (just look at our 2011 Snowpacalypse YouTube Video).

            With the weather warming up, many people start planning their summer outdoor activities which many times include enjoying the natural beauty of State and National Parks.

            Amplivox Portable Sound Systems has many products that would be great for outdoor environments and applications. We are affiliated with the GSA (Government Services Administration) and offer GSA Contracts for our portable sound systems and wide variety of lecterns and multimedia carts.

            Here are some product suggestions and a short description:


            Fun Facts about State and National Parks:

            • Yellowstone National Park become the world's first national park in 1872.
            • The largest National Park is Northeast Greenland Park in Greenland
            • The Most Visited Ecotourism destination in the U.S. is Everglades National Park in Florida.
            • Click here to see a list of State Parks in the United States.
            What is your favorite Park to visit??? 

              Friday, May 13, 2011

              Tour Guide Tips: What Not to Use If You Are Guiding Tourists


              Recently, the Amplivox Sound Systems Social Media Staff ran across a video of an Egyptian Tour Guide radio headphone system. The tour guide speaks into a microphone that transmits audio over the airwaves to each of the listeners on the tour.

              The Amplivox Belt-Blaster Personal Waistband Amplifer is one of our products that can fill the same need of this tour in Egypt. 

              (Click here to see YouTube Reviews and How-To Videos on the Belt Blaster)

              What are the reasons the system in this video is not the way to go?
              1. Batteries. Constant upkeep on this system includes constantly be testing batteries for dozens of tour radio sets and the broadcasting kit, which is a lot of work. With the Belt-Blaster, you would need to test one set of batteries.
              2. Cost. To pay for dozens and dozens of headsets, batteries, and transmitters would quickly add up several times higher than the price of a Belt-Blaster.
              3. Repair/testing. Do you really want to be out on a tour when a customer's headset or radio breaks? Do you want to carry extras and mess with that? The Belt-Blaster removes that hassle that WILL happen.
              4. Sound Quality. At about 1:30 into the video, the narrator calls the sound quality just plain bad. The Belt-Blaster has rich and full sound and goes above background noise. Watch this video for proof: Belt-Blaster used by Tour Guide in Brugge, Poland
              5. Learning Curve. This could be confusing to explain to people not inept with technology. Blog Post: Is technology making old people irrelevant?

              Wednesday, May 11, 2011

              Assistive Technology: Blind Skier uses Belt-Blaster PA System for Communication


              For the visually impaired, normal everyday things are not taken for granted. To do everyday things like travel, use a computer, and communicate clearly, major steps need to be taken to ensure usability and safety for the blind man or woman.

              Recently we received a call from a blind customer who used one of our Belt-Blaster Personal PA Systems at a ski resort to communicate as he enjoyed a day at the slopes.

              Here is a video we made using that footage:



              The Maine Handicapped Skiers do not let their limitations limit them in overcoming their seeming disabilities (although, they seem pretty 'able' to me!). Some other innovative things for the blind include computers for the disabled and special sports for the disabled (see below for a list).

              Skiing is one of the many sports for the disabled, and adaptive skiing has been an activity enjoyed by many disabled people. Assistive Technology (AT) such as the Amplivox Belt-Blaster Personal PA System helps those who do not have the same abilities as the majority of the population.

              Amplivox is thrilled to have a perfect AT device that does the same work as a megaphone or a loudspeaker, but in a much more comfortable and non-obtrusive manner.

              Other popular sports for the blind include:
              • Bowling
              • Golf
              • Sailing
              • Hiking
              • Judo
              • Diving

              Related Links:
              -BLOG: Blogs Labeled 'Reviews and Testimonials'
              -BLOG: Amplivox Supports North Suburban YMCA
              -WEBSITE: Amplivox Sports and Recreation Market
              -VIDEO: Youth Football Team Amplifies Coaches Voices

              Monday, May 09, 2011

              A Look Into a Day in the Amplivox Office


              Amplivox Sound Systems prides itself on a long history of quality, durable, and easy to use products. We have been in the portable sound business since 1952 when Perma Power introduced the Amplivox line of portable PA systems. CEO Don Roth acquired Amplivox in 1995 and transformed it into the leading portable sound company.

              From our industry leading 6 year warranties, environmental efforts to go green, charitable programs like the Pink Podium Promise to help raise awareness to breast cancer, and innovations to continually push for new and better products for consumers. Amplivox Sound Systems has always been one step ahead of the competition.

              The moment employees start work, the office and warehouse is filled with laughter and the sound of employees working hard to ensure our quality products get to you as soon as possible. Above is a picture of an Electronics Technician checking the quality of a circuit board in our S602 MityMeg Megaphone. While one of our Social Media Specialists works to provide consumers with reliable and accurate customer testimonials, instructional videos and blogs to help give incite into our products before you purchase them.

              Our employees are always ready to help make this an enjoyable experience for all of our customers. Below is a picture of one of our employees running to catch the mail man to send out a last minute package. Amplivox also prides itself on trying to keep jobs here in America. Most of our products are made at our headquarters right here in Northbrook, Illinois.


              Check back soon for day 2 at the Amplivox Office!

              Related Links:

              BLOG: Obama & The Tea Party Use Amplivox Megaphones
              BLOG: Magician Gives Favorable Review of BeltBlaster PA System
              BLOG: Amplivoxs' New Line of Labtop Multimedia Carts
              BLOG: All Blogs Labeled Customer Support
              VIDEO: How to Set Up The Sound Cruiser PA System
              VIDEO: SW915 Testimonial from Aerobics Class Teacher
              WEBSITE: Sarah Palin Uses Pinnacle Multimedia Lectern

              Sunday, May 08, 2011

              16 Recent Blog Posts You May Have Missed


              This blog is a list of several interesting blog posts you may have missed.

              International Travel, Business Relationships, and Portable Sound Systems

              11 Useful Links for Firefighters, EMS, and Rescue Team Members

              Gymnastics Class Testimonial for Amplivox Digital Audio Travel Partner Sound System

              But I don't live in Earthquake Country....

              Church Pulpits: The Amplivox Lecterns and Podiums Great For A Worship Service

              Multi-Purpose Lecterns: Restaurant Hostess Stand, Presentation Podium, and Pulpit

              Auctioneers Protect Your Voice with Portable PA Sound Systems

              Keeping Up With Technology. QR and Barcode Scanning the Next Frontier

              Can Your Cheerleaders Be Heard Above the Noise?

              Plan & Prepare for a Power Outage

              How Long Do Your Batteries Last?

              Amplivox at the 2011 "Total MRO Solutions" Grainger Trade Show in Orlando, FL

              Look at This: Youtube Comedian EdBassmaster uses Amplivox Sound Cruiser in Video

              Does your Business Need A Utility Player? Versatile PA Systems/Lecterns are our Specialty

              Standing By America: Amplivox's Efforts to Keep Products "Made in America"

              Amplivox Gives Back Summary Blog

              AmpliVox Portable Sound Systems engineers, manufactures and markets portable Public Address Systems and reliable elegant lecterns with integrated wireless sound systems for a myriad of purposes from presentations to communication applications whether indoors or outdoors or both,for meetings, training seminars and conferences. We manufacture our products in the USA, meet stringent UL standards, come with a six year warrant and comprise an array of styles and sound coverage for every speaking need from a small meeting room of 30 people to a 20,000 square foot auditorium of up to 5,000 people. Our extensive range of superior quality, easy to use and reliable audio electronics will provide maximum customer satisfaction and ensure that the message is heard. The heart of our sound systems are our 50 and 250 watt amplifiers with multiple inputs and outputs for enhanced versatility.                                                                            Extend your voice with AmpliVox Portable Sound Systems!

              Friday, May 06, 2011

              Political Cartoon on Recent Events Congratulating Navy SEALs


              In light of recent events we made this cartoon with an image we have of President Barack Obama using one of our megaphones.

              Click here to read a press release on Barack Obama and the Tea Party using AmpliVox megaphones to communicate their messages.



              Pink at the Rink! Skokie Flyers' Breast Cancer Awareness Event


              On Thursday, March 31, 2011 the Skokie Flyers held a breast cancer charity hockey game against the Kenosha Komets. Amplivox Sound Systems was proud to donate one of our Pink Pinnacle Podiums to the event.

              The Amplivox Pink Podium Promise is reserved for breast cancer awareness presentations or events and are available on a loan-per-event basis. All shipping costs are paid by Amplivox. The Pink Podium Promise is to help raise awareness and positively impact the lives and families of those affected by breast cancer worldwide.

              Check Out This Video Of the Skokie Flyers!



              All proceeds from the game went to benefit the Avon Walk For Breast Cancer. They asked a $5 donation and held a silent auction for prizes such as Cubs, Sox, Hawks, and Wolves Tickets as well as many other great items. Below are some of the pictures taken during the game.



              Related Links:
              BLOG: Pink Podium Finds it Way to the Komen Race
              BLOG: Amplivox CEO Contributes to BusinessWeek
              BLOG: Does Your Business Need a Utility Player?
              BLOG: Amplivox Congratulates Chicago Blackhawks

              Thursday, May 05, 2011

              Shouting Down Opposing Views With a Megaphone


              Article from source.
              Emotions ran high as ralliers took to the Lincoln County Courthouse, calling for the recall of Democratic State Senator Jim Holperin, one of the 14 senators who fled the state more than three weeks ago.

              Organizers say the rally was originally scheduled at Club 64 in Merrill, but they had to change locations after business owners say they received more than 50 phone calls threatening to destroy their business and cause physical harm if the rally took place.

                Protesters both for and against the recall showed up. Even though they initially kept their distance, Holperin supporters engulfed the recall effort, and that's when the situation turned tense.

              "They circled around us, and they're bullying us. They have a loud horn and they're trying to intimidate people that would like to come and sign the petition," said Kim Simac, recall leader, "I do think that this is an intimidation ploy."
              Simac says protestors even got involved with their petitions.

              "We had a lady come up and write profanity and rip some of them right on our table.... so I guess that's what democracy looks like to them."

              -------------------------------------
              Don't let your voice get lost in the noise, use an Amplivox megaphone!

              BLOG: At Least one thing has Bipartisan Support: Amplivox Sound Systems
              BLOG: Barack Obama Uses Amplivox Megaphone
              VIDEO: Amplivox Megaphone Demonstration Video

              Wednesday, May 04, 2011

              Amplivox Gives Back Summary Blog


              This blog post is a brief summary of some of our efforts giving back to the community. We seek to give back in anyway we can. Hope you enjoy it!

              -Amplivox is Going Green -- Amplivox's Going Green Efforts
              Blog: Amplivox is Going Green
              Blog: 7 Easy Steps to Go Green
              Blog: Green Pinnacle Podium from Amplivox



              -Amplivox Supports Breast Cancer Research--Pink Podium Promise Information
              Blog: Pink Podium used by US Army in Iraq
              Blog: Pink Podium Used at Golfing Fundrasing Event




              -Amplivox Supports Local Employment Transition Service--Fresh Start of Illinois
              Blog: Amplivox Helps Fresh Start of Illinois by Supplying Podium




              -Amplivox Supports Special Olympics of Washington--
              Blog: Amplivox Supports the Special Olympics of Washington by Supplying PA System



              -Amplivox Supports Ironman Triathlon and New York City Marathon
              Blog: Amplivox Supports Triathlon and Marathon with Half-Mile Hailers and Podiums

              -Amplivox Honors Red Eagles Fallen Soldiers in Parade
              Blog: Amplivox Sound Cruiser Car PA System used to Honor Fallen Heroes
              sponsors

              -Amplivox Supports Youth Football By Amplifying Coaches Voices
              Blog: Amplivox Supports Youth Football By Amplifying Coaches Voices

              -Amplivox Supports Northbrook YMCA with "Speak up for America" Program
              Blog: Amplivox Supports North Suburban YMCA
              In addition, AmpliVox has recently launched a "Speak Up for America" program. With every megaphone purchased AmpliVox will make a $15 donation to the North Suburban YMCA to benefit their mission, programs and services nationwide.

              Monday, May 02, 2011

              China, Business Relationships, and Portable Sound Systems


              Even with the best products and business practices, you still need strong relationships to succeed in any marketplace.

              Differences in opinion, values and culture make it difficult for many companies to develop a positive relationship. Identifying and understanding differences allows people to shift their position to one of compromise and negotiation.

              Amplivox Sound Systems has been selling portable sound systems, pa systems, computer and multimedia carts, sound lecterns and podiums, and many other reliable, easy to use products since 1952.

              China is a country with a population with over 1 Billion. A lot of companies try tapping into the vast consumer market China has to offer. Recently AmpliVox CEO Don Roth went to China to visit several companies and explain the benefit Amplivox products bring to China and their companies. Here he shares some of his experiences:
              “It was a productive trip, It didn't start out very good. I took the China ferry from Shenzhen but the gentleman who was supposed to accompany me failed to show up. He was going to help me visit several different plants but he eventually called and said he was stuck in traffic.

              You need to meet people and companies that deal with us. We wound up visiting several plants. That are at different stages of development, with different factories, that build different products.

              Many call Hong Kong, Ameri-China. It is a relationship (China/US) that is growing more and more dependent and it’s been very good for both economies. You can’t break off the yokes of totalitarianism into freedom without a viable economy. The growth is giving them a better opportunity to vocalize.

              At the end of the trip, with my host and guide (who is not very good with directions) we went to four cities in addition to Hong Kong. The roads are brand new! Very successful meetings, good people. The trip was 5 days. We ate real Chinese dinner, lots of fish.”


              Do you live outside the United States and want to buy one of our SW915 Audio Travel Partners, SW223 Wireless Audio Portable Buddy, Megaphones or any of our other great products? Amplivox also ships internationally so be sure to ask your sales rep about international shipping rates.

              Here are 10 types of differences that may hinder business relationships:


              - Communication Styles
              - Non-Verbal Communication
              - Learning Styles
              - Differing Values
              - Boundaries
              - Self Needs
              - Company Culture
              - Culture of the Country
              - Family Culture
              - Individual vs. Team





              Interesting Links:

              BLOG: Amplivox's Efforts to Keep Products Made in the U.S.
              BLOG: Amplivox Business Philosophy
              BLOG: How to Treat your Customers Right
              VIDEO: ABC News Clip about Purchasing American Products