Coleraine-based Light & Sound FX has installed a new PA system at Coleraine Football Club. The system, commissioned by Mackie Designs’ technical manager Mick Williams, is based around RCF’s new RX 3000, a programmable matrix for sound system management and control. Light & Sound FX’s Darren Gardener explains the background to the install: "Initially, we were dubious about using a 100V line system. We were concerned about both the quality and clarity of such a system. During consultations with Mackie/RCF in the early stages of the project, both Andy Austin Brown and myself spent a lot of time going over the pros and cons for a low impedance system or a 100V line system. In the end, we felt that Andy had a stronger case and we went with the HD 550/HFT horn speakers and the RX3000 matrix system. On the day that Mick Williams came to commission and test the system, I have to say that we all held our breath. But there was no need to worry, when we heard the system for the first time, we immediately knew that we had made the right decision."Working from the initial brief from Darren Gardener of L&S FX Williams worked on the RX 3000 system basic programming and configuration. The work was carried out during system build and test at Mackie's Wickford technical workshop. Williams explains: "The system design called for dual amplifiers for each of the three stands, with alternate A/B speaker wiring. This was to ensure 50% system operation in the event of amp or line failure. When I arrived at the ground, I was delighted to find that the job had been carried out to the highest standards by Darren and his crew. The speaker placement and cabling were exactly as our design specified."
