The new monthly column, to debut in the January 2009 issue, offers abehind-the-scenes conversation with engineers from leading audio companieson how they design the products that change the AV industry.

"Sam is extremely plugged into the audio and acoustics side of PRO AV. He'sa leading figure who's been involved in projects that anybody couldappreciate and enjoy," said PRO AV editor Brad Grimes. "So when he offeredto lend his expertise in the form of an audio design column, we jumped atthe chance to work with him."

Berkow recently contributed the feature article "Low End Blues" to theOctober 2008 issue. He described the problems and solutions he encounteredin optimizing the acoustics in the studio of legendary sound engineer BruceBotnick, who worked on all The Doors albums, among other accomplishments.Berkow is the founding member of SIA Acoustics and SIA Software Company,Inc. His research into design and measurement has been focused on findingpractical solutions to both the acoustical, electro-acoustical andrecording problems of performance and production spaces.

In addition to his design work, Berkow created SIA-SMAART, anindustry-leading acoustic measurement and sound system optimizationsoftware package. This software has become the industry standard tool forproviding acoustical measurement and sound system optimizationcapabilities.

Over the past 20 years, Berkow has designed a wide variety of acousticalprojects including performing arts venues, recording studios, productionfacilities, worship spaces and larger, multi-purpose venues, includingamphitheaters and stadiums. Berkow is currently on the faculty at NYU.

Sam joins a distinguished roster of PRO AV columnists that includes PetePutman, CTS, InfoComm's 2008 Educator of the Year; Thom Mullins, CTS, NSCAand InfoComm lecturer and member of the NSCA Consultant's Council, the NSCAEducation Committee, and InfoComm ICAT Council; and Kris Vollrath, CTS,vice president and general manager of Advanced AV and leading expert ondigital signage.

About PRO AV

PRO AV is the fastest growing magazine in the commercial and residentialaudiovisual industry. A BPA-audited publication, it's read by 20,000professional AV integrators, contractors, consultants, resellers, and theirend users. Its editorial coverage focuses on the day-to-day informationneeds of readers, including professional advice, how-to information, tips,strategies and tactics for working with audio, video, IT and emergingtechnologies.

About Hanley Wood

Hanley Wood, LLC, is the premier media and information company servinghousing and construction. Through four operating divisions, the companyproduces award-winning magazines and Web sites, marquee trade shows andevents, rich data and custom marketing solutions. The company also is NorthAmerica's leading publisher of home plans. Hanley Wood Business Media(Washington, D.C.), publishes 30 award-winning residential and commercialconstruction titles, including BUILDER, REMODELING, ARCHITECT, CUSTOM HOME,CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION and residential architect. Hanley Wood BusinessMedia also offers the construction industry's foremost collection of Websites, including BUILDER Online, REMODELING Online, and ebuild, thecomprehensive online guide to building products, as well as the largestcollection of house plans online through eplans.com and Dream Home Source.

Founded in 1976, Hanley Wood is a $250 million company owned by affiliatesof JPMorgan Partners, LLC. CCMP Capital Advisors manages the Hanley Woodinvestment for JPMorgan Partners.