Parlé VBC 2500 overview
The Parlé VBC 2500 is an all-in-one conferencing bar featuring Biamp Audio Intelligence to deliver premium audiovisual experiences for small and medium conference rooms. It offers the same audio intelligence features of its ABC 2500 counterpart with the addition on the Biamp Video intelligence camera system. Onboard DSP powers the integrated AEC, AGC, and NRD, along with the 27-microphone array and Biamp Beamtracking™ technology to actively track and intelligently mix conversations from around the room. Room sound reinforcement is provided by a pair of Biamp audio intelligence optimized onboard speakers. The premium onboard optics feature a 12MP camera with 120° wide-angle lens, along with ePTZ, auto-framing, and automatic shutter features.
This article will highlight and explain some of the technologies implemented in the Parlé conferencing bar products and how the integrate into the environment.
Note: The new VBC/ABC 2500a models include support and connectivity for Assisted Listening Systems (ALS) (3.5mm mono jack) that mirrors the speaker output.
- The audio data source for the ALS output is the same as that for the loudspeakers but does not have the same DSP processing as that applied to the loudspeaker. (This channel level should be non-variable to the ALS system)
- Parlé microphone audio is not fed to the ALS output.
- ALS output is a balanced (differential) signal with a max output level of 0 dBu (0.755 Vrms)
Microphones and DSP processing
The VBC 2500 conferencing bar is designed around the same technology that is in the Parlé and Tesira products in one hardware device. Using 27 mics arranged in a vertical and horizontal array pattern, the ABC 2500 allows for pattern control on the Azimuth and Vertical fields of the room. In addition to the microphone array technology, the bar incorporates all the DSP elements that go into the Tesira products with an additional level of performance due to the nature of an all in one solution.
Mic array and DSP features of the Parlé VBC 2500
- 27 Element Mic Array (Horizontal and Vertical)
- Tuned for Voice
- Three Tracking Arrays
- Advanced BeamTracking, Gain Control, Noise Cancelation and AEC processing
The large number of spaced capsules allow for mics to be setup as "clusters" forming very tight coverage over more frequencies on both the Azimuth and Vertical zones in the room. This allows for accurate tracking of seated or standing participants without the pickup of HVAC, adjacent room, or fan noise.
Parlé capsule clusters are positioned and tuned to be focused in the speech range. This allows for an optimized approach of speech pickup even before DSP is introduced. This helps to get the best speech sound to the microphone before any additional processing is added.
Biamp AI Noise Reduction
The Parlé ABC 2500 and VBC 2500 bars also feature Biamp's newest noise reduction algorithm that provides reduction of stationary room noise as well as non-stationary room sources. Previous noise reduction focused on sources in the room that were steady and made adjustments to reduce or remove. In our newest noise reduction intelligence, non stationary room sources that are short in duration or have a high variability can be reduced in the same manner.
This noise reduction is based on a deep learning algorithm that uses matching learning to identify and isolate human speech from other sources such as typing, coughing, or sounds from outside the room.
AGC and Echo cancellation
Parlé conferencing bars feature the same onboard DSP technology as featured in the Tesira and Devio families to ensure optimum performance. This includes acoustic echo cancellation, AGC, speech sense, and non linear processing.
Speakers and Amplification
Both VBC 2500 and ABC 2500 conferencing bars have speaker components to provide the best in room audio performance. Stereo speakers have been provided to prepare for UC stereo conferencing needs.
60mm low distortion drivers are provided for uniform wide coverage. - The innovative enclosure design includes high volume, sealed enclosures that allow for complete isolation of the speaker assembly, passive radiator from the other bar components within the chassis.
- Dynamic Bass enhancement (DBE) is included to enhance low frequency content when at lower volumes, as well as ensure zero low-end distortion at high volumes.
- 20W x 2 onboard amplification with distortion compensation DSP to maximize enclosure efficiency.
Camera
The VBC 2500 is designed around a 12MP image sensor for a 4K, 120° field of view. It is great fit for huddle spaces, or small to medium conference room design applications. The VBC 2500 incorporates Biamp Video Intelligence technology into its onboard DSP to provide a strong features that optimize camera performance to the far side participants. Below is a list of the features included in the VBC 2500 onboard camera.
- LED indications for camera activity
- 4K, wide angle 120° field of view
- Electric Pan/Tilt/Zoom with 5x zoom
- Auto framing technology to keep participants in view
- Automatic privacy shutter
- Preset Recall
- Biamp Camera Control app for PC/MAC control and updates
- UVC camera control
Biamp LaunchTM
Parle' VBC 2500 features Biamp LaunchTM, and a suite of functions designed to speed up and optimize the installation and tuning of a Biamp conference system.
Note: Downloadable Launch Report Card is not yet available for VBC and ABC conferencing bars.
Auto-configuration may be initiated from the Launch button on the bar
The Launch-capable mics and amplifiers on the bar offer a known reference system to begin tuning the room. System adaptations are made based on measurements of the room’s acoustic response and the loudspeaker behavior. Provides a room performance grade – before & after Launch.
Note: Front panel LED's will flash until the Launch is initiated. A running Launch configuration may be cleared via factory reset procedure.
Connectivity
Rear panel features locking USB type C connection for integration
and locking power connector for the included 12 VDC power supply.
- USB-C locking connection with provided USB cables
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USB-C to USB C, 1M length, 20GBit/Sec Rated
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Locking 12VDC ~5A Power adapter is included and recommended for most applications.
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Note: Locking supply connection must be fully tightened and seated for proper power to be supplied to bar. If issue with enumeration is present, check for proper power supply seating.
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VBC 2500a models include an additional 3.5mm mono balanced output for connectivity to Assisted Listening Systems (ALS). This mirrors the speaker output of the bar. Microphone signal is not fed to this output.
The VBC 2500 has a rated max output of 50W.
Note: USB-C PD allows for up to 20V. The onboard electronics will support both USB or DC power, but it is recommended to plan to use the included PS-12-60 power supply in any cases where the host device or hub is not rated to supply the required USB-C power to the conferencing bar.
Integrated cable cover snaps in place for clean install. Includes rear panel mounting points for table, wall, or VESA mounts.
Factory reset is available via the launch button on the Parlé conferencing bars. If reset is required, push and hold the launch button for 15 seconds to reset the VBC 2500 back to its factory settings including Launch configuration.
Note: Once the bar has been factory reset, the Microphone LEDs will slowly pulse red and green until Launch optimization has been initiated.
LED Indicators
Audio Privacy LED on the front with Red/Green mute status indication tied to UC mute status. When configured as a speakerphone, the ABC 2500 uses Human Interface Device (HID) communication that can synchronize privacy mute state and volume control if the UC application supports this communication. HID mute synchronization and AEC offloading are supported by various UC platforms.
Audio - Microphone LEDs: center front (behind the glass)
Active with mic UNMUTED - Green
Active with mic MUTED - Red
Inactive - OFF
Flashing slow Red/Green - Factory reset, ready for Launch.
A camera privacy LED is provided on the front with white status indication tied to camera active state.The onboard physical privacy shutter will open and close while call is active.
Video - Camera LED: VBC only above camera(behind the glass) Active with camera ON - LED ON - White, shutter open
Active with camera OFF - LED OFF, shutter open
Inactive - LED OFF, shutter closed
Mounting and Accessories
The ABC 2500 and VBC 2500 ship with included table and wall mounts in the box for easy installation. Both included mounts attach via 4 mounting screws to the rear of the bar. The included wall mount allows for direct install to wall surface with cable pass-thru for ease of installation.
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The Parle PMA 2000-DM accessory is a VESA mount adapter to allow for both the ABC 2500 and VBC 2500 to be attached to a display with top or bottom orientation.
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The Parle PS-12-60 12VDC power supply is included with ABC/VBC 2500 hardware but may also be purchased separately if a replacement is needed.
Biamp Camera Controller software
Biamp provides a camera management application that installs on PC or Mac for control and updates for the Vidi 250, ABC 2500 and VBC 2500 conferencing bars. The control software is available to download from the link below or the Biamp website. This software allows for additional camera features and management available to the room.
Software Features
- Preset saving and recall
- Manual zoom and panning (ePTZ)
- Participant autoframing
- Image mirroring
- Image flip for under display mounting
- Backlight compensation
- 50hz/60Hz setting
- Max zoom limits
- UC profile selection
- Microphone on/off (compatible with Vidi250 only)
- Automatic Firmware Updates (Biamp Camera Controller Software v1.5.1)
In addition to the camera control features, the Biamp Camera Controller software is used for firmware updates to the hardware. These firmware updates will be made available for download, then can updates can be initiated via the camera software application settings page.
With UC profile set to Teams, the options for upgrade firmware and Automatic firmware updates will be grayed out. These are done within the Teams platform when this profile is selected.
- Parlé and Biamp Camera Controller firmware download links
- Parlé Conferencing Bars Firmware release notes
Note: Biamp camera preview only available while VBC 2500 is not being used by the UC client. Setting changes may be made in camera application while in an active call via the camera control application without preview. If camera preview is desired, it is recommended to make changes in camera controller before starting UC application.
USB Extension
The USB extension devices listed below have been tested with VBC and ABC 2500 conferencing bars.
| Mfg | Model | Intended Use | USB Version(s) | Date Tested | Compatible |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Icron |
10m USB Extension Custom Cable Included |
|
9/28/22 |
YES |
|
|
Icron |
Icron USB 3-2-1 Raven 3104 Pro |
4-port USB 3.2, 100m CAT 6a/7 Extender System |
|
9/28/22 |
YES |
|
Icron |
CAT 5e/6/7 extension system |
|
9/28/22 |
YES
|
|
|
|
USB 2.0 Supports up to 1080p@30 |
4/1/2023 |
YES
|
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|
RemoteTableKit™ MINI-USB |
USB 2.0 Supports up to 1080p@30 |
4/1/2023 |
YES
|
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| Kanex | EXT-USB16FT | USB Active Cable (16') |
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7/20/22 | YES |
| Binary | B-USB3-EXTAAP-15 | USB Active (49.2') 15M |
|
7/20/22 | YES |
|
TechLogix Networx |
|
5/5/23 |
YES
|