Stage Audio Works delivers Appotronics laser projectors to Gordon Institute of Business Science

Stage Audio Works has supplied two Appotronics S Smart SU13KAS laser projectors to systems integrator Imative for installation at the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS).

The GIBS auditorium set for the 2026 Oliver Tambo Memorial Lecture, with the lecture graphics projected on two large screens

Stage Audio Works has supplied two Appotronics S Smart SU13KAS laser projectors to systems integrator Imative for installation at the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS). The project underscores Stage Audio Works’ commitment to partnering globally with premium international brands and delivering value-driven tools and solutions that further enable customer success.

Project overview

Imative, an integration partner of Stage Audio Works, replaced legacy lamp-based projectors at GIBS with two Appotronics S Smart SU13KAS 13,000-lumen, 1920×1200 laser projectors. Imative and the Gordon Institute of Business Science have a long-standing partnership. The choice was driven by two critical factors: superior brightness output compared to competing products and the availability of a short-throw lens option essential for the room’s optical constraints.

David Butcher, owner of Imative, cited the combination of performance, reliability, and optical flexibility as decisive in selecting Appotronics for this high-profile education venue.

The advantages of laser projectors versus lamp-based projectors are obvious, but what set Appotronics apart was the superior image quality of the projections, in big part due to the higher brightness output, something the school was particularly keen on. The communication with Stage Audio Works in the lead-up to this install was extremely efficient and we were aligned from the start, which saved us time and allowed us to remain within budget.

David Butcher, owner, Imative
The lecture stage at GIBS between the two projection screens, with camera operators in front

Appotronics: ALPD® laser projectors

Appotronics Corporation Limited, founded in 2006, is a global pioneer in laser display technology and the inventor of ALPD® (Advanced Laser Phosphor Display). ALPD® combines blue laser diodes with phosphor-wheel technology to deliver high brightness, wide colour gamut, low speckle, and long-life operation without lamp replacements, and is now deployed in over 43,000 cinema theatres worldwide.

A wide view of the tiered GIBS auditorium, with both projected screens visible at the front

Partnering globally

This installation demonstrates Stage Audio Works’ role as a solution-led partner that connects local customers with proven global expertise. Through its recently established distribution partnership with Appotronics, Stage Audio Works is introducing a premium laser-projection technology platform to the South African market.

The partnership reflects Stage Audio Works’ Partner Globally pillar: leveraging relationships with leading international technology brands to identify and deliver fit-for-purpose solutions for specific end-user requirements. For Stage Audio Works, projects such as this extend beyond the supply of equipment. It combines Appotronics’ projection expertise with decades of technical knowledge, local market understanding, and customer support provided by Stage Audio Works and its integration partners.

One of the two ceiling-mounted Appotronics laser projectors above the GIBS auditorium

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