Europe - The Adam Hall Group is continuing to drive its international growth in 2024. With the new UK Show Space in the UK, the event technology provider headquartered in Neu-Anspach, Hesse, is opening its next show space in January.
At the NicLen UK premises, customers from the UK will have the opportunity to experience the extensive product solutions of the Cameo, LD Systems and Defender brands in detail on site and test them hands-on. The opening ceremony will take place on 10 January 2024. First appointments are already possible for the opening day.
The Adam Hall Group's new UK Show Space comprises around 100 m2 of exhibition space. The focus is particularly on lighting solutions from Cameo. The Adam Hall Group's lighting brand has caused a stir in recent years with numerous UK references - including the coronation concert for King Charles III and the annual lighting of the RHS Gardens - and has found a strong dry hire partner for local customers in NicLen UK.
The Cameo range in the Show Space extends from the Otos, Opus, Evos and Azor moving light series to the Zenit wash lights and Pixbar LED bars through to static lamps with a theatre and broadcast focus, such as the spotlights from the F series and the LED profile spotlights from the P series.
Markus Jahnel, COO of the Adam Hall Group, says: "The UK is calling - and we're coming! The UK Show Space will enable us to address our numerous customers and partners on site even better and present our comprehensive event technology portfolio to them under optimal conditions. We look forward
Spain - While the company looks ahead to a new trajectory within the Focusrite Group, the launch of two TiMax product integrations is tabled for Barcelona.
The first new product introduction is the much anticipated multi-channel, live production reverb feature for TiMax SoundHub. This new plug-in option, available to all existing HARDCore FPGA-equipped TiMax SoundHub units, adds no less than four individual 1-in / 16-out reverb engines which give sound designers full control of all parameters, as well as access to an advanced 3D room reverb-builder application. Aux sends to each reverb engine can also be driven by TiMax TrackerD4 stagetracking so that performers’ mic sources or effects can be cross-faded between different reverbs configured to be spatially consistent with their localisation on stage or in the auditorium.
New for the TiMax TrackerD4 precision stagetracking solution is TiMaxSP, a plug-in option for integrated lighting and media control. Developed in collaboration with virtual production show control specialists, Stage Precision, TiMaxSP enables TiMax TrackerD4 to intelligently direct and focus groups of moving-head light fixtures using ArtNet and sACN networked DMX.
TiMaxSP operates seamlessly for synchronised groups of fixtures across multiple tracked objects and opens the door for further Stage Precision integration with video mapping and camera control, as well as Unreal and Notch control and beyond.
As part of the Focusrite Group, a TiMax presence will feature on the Focusrite Group stand and visitors will also be able to
UK - Take one artiste, one hyper-cardioid wireless mic and 35 years of comedy history and you have Eddie Izzard’s Remix Tour Live. Take an unimaginably disparate collection of venues and halls, ranging from 2,200-cap down to 840 - some with tiered balconies, and some with no flying facilities - add in weird sound effects ranging from dinosaurs to Darth Vader (and a whisper to a scream) and you potentially have a mighty headache for the production team.
Eddie has toured with Martin Audio’s scalable, compact and versatile WPS line array previously, and her production crew are well aware of the system’s adaptability. In fact, Solotech senior account manager, Robin Conway, discloses that “the last Eddie Izzard tour [Wunderbar, in 2019] was part of the reason I bought WPS in the first place. This time around production and I wanted to try and provide the same level of consistency while retaining a single truck.” Hence the inventory was stripped back to a bare minimum.
The sound design was expertly reworked from venue to venue by the experienced FOH team of sound engineer, Scott (Scoobie) Scherban and system tech, Rayne Ramsden - working alongside production manager, Stephen Reeve. They knew to expect the unexpected, and as Rayne put it, “each venue has been a beast of its own.”
Production carried just 24 WPS to enable 12-a-side elements to be flown at the largest venue, Birmingham Symphony Hall (2,200-cap), as well as four SX218, half a dozen DD6 (generally as lip-fills) and a pair of XD12 for various balcony delays or side-fi
USA - Audio-Technica has announced the opening of its new system solutions test lab at its U.S. headquarters in Stow, Ohio. This new facility was designed as a space that could be used for analysis, development, testing, demonstration and troubleshooting of Audio-Technica’s commercial products in applications including presentations, huddle rooms, classrooms, boardrooms and more.
Integration with Audio-Technica’s technology partners is a key part of this laboratory, in order to refine and demonstrate interoperability in real-world applications. The main application will be to serve as a network hub for consultants, integrators, end users and reps to experience A-T's systems remotely (via conferencing apps), but visitors are also welcome to visit in person.
Mark Donovan, Audio-Technica applications engineering manager, professional markets, remarks: “Commercial products, especially for video conferencing, are best experienced from the far end as an end user will experience it. This is not possible by simply walking into an office and showing someone the physical hardware. They want to know how it will sound in real applications, including through Teams or Zoom or the conferencing application of their choice.
“And much more than a demo room to drive sales, this space gives us the opportunity to walk integrators through our hardware and software solutions before they get on site to install them, to increase their level of comfort and familiarity with these systems, as well as to remote-in to troubleshoot in real time if they are experiencing
UK - Focusrite Group chairman and founder Phil Dudderidge has received the honour of Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the New Years Honours List.
An OBE is awarded for having played a major local role in any activity, including people whose work has made them known nationally in their chosen area. In Phil’s case this commendation is in recognition of the contribution he has made to the professional audio industry over several decades.
Phil has enjoyed a distinguished career, initially working as Led Zeppelin’s touring sound engineer in 1970. He set up RSD Systems in a partnership of three in 1971, building bespoke PA systems with custom-built mixing consoles. This evolved into Soundcraft Electronics a company specialising in live and studio mixing consoles, which was sold to Harman International in 1988.
Phil acquired the assets of Focusrite in 1989 and rebuilt the business as Focusrite Audio Engineering. Focusrite Plc was formed in 2014 to take the group public on AIM. Phil served as chief executive officer of Focusrite from 1989 until becoming executive chairman in 2012, and then non-executive chairman of Focusrite Plc in January 2022.
The Focusrite Group has grown to include 13 brands: Focusrite, Focusrite Pro, Novation, Ampify, ADAM Audio, Martin Audio, Optimal Audio, Linea Research Sequential, Oberheim, Sonnox, OutBoard and TiMax.
Phil Dudderidge commented: “I am honoured, humbled and thrilled to have been awarded an OBE. This is not just an honour for me, but is recognition of all the incredible people I
Spain - Loudspeaker manufacturer Funktion-One will introduce its latest product innovations, including a new addition to the Evo Series, at Integrated Systems Europe 2024 in Barcelona at the end of January. The show at Fira de Barcelona, sees Funktion-One relocate within Hall 7 to Stand G800.
In addition to the new Evo launch, Funktion-One will introduce projection system design software, a new tour ready amplifier rack and Vero VX accessories.
Funktion-One founder Tony Andrews comments: “We’re very much looking forward to ISE and the opportunity to catch up with many of our partners from around the world. We’re constantly looking for ways of innovating and progressing to the next level. Our new products represent the latest chapter in that evolution.”
The company has enjoyed a rich period of R&D, which leads to the ISE launches and the prospect of more to come. “It’s been an important spell of R&D; we expect to have some more additions to the product range later this year.”
The Funktion-One team, including Andrew Low who was appointed director of business development in April, will be in attendance for the duration of the show.
Europe - Linea Research, high-performance amplification, DSP and system control manufacturer, has announced a strategic partnership with Ampco Flashlight Sales as their distributor in the Benelux.
“The collaboration between Linea Research and Ampco Flashlight Sales signifies a commitment to providing the Benelux market with unparalleled audio solutions and reinforces both companies' dedication to advancing the audio industry,” says a statement.
In April 2023, Linea Research was awarded the King’s Award in recognition of its innovation in the field of audio technology.
Europe - RCF is saying goodbye to a sales leader as Bertrand Delbar steps down from his role as France sales manager to pursue new projects after 25 successful years of service. Delbar has played a pivotal role in establishing RCF as a leading provider of professional audio solutions in the French market.
Starting with RCF in 1999 in a commercial audio role, Delbar dedicated a quarter of a century to the brand. In 2006, he took on the role of sales agent, later becoming sales manager and the main point of contact for customers and dealers across France. His dedication and expertise have been invaluable in growing RCF's presence and reputation locally.
Alberto Ruozzi, RCF commercial director, comments: "We praise his passion, expertise and relationships within the industry. Bertrand leaves behind a legacy of success, having established RCF as a foremost supplier to the installation, live event and portable audio markets. His dedication, commitment and longevity in the role have strengthened RCF's foundations in France."
In passing the baton, Delbar says: "I'm very proud to have been part of RCF's journey in France. I have so many fond memories, especially working closely with Léo Di Nicola in the early years to help establish the brand. Now I am excited to take on new challenges. I thank all of you for your support, with particular mention to the engineering group, marketing and sales/account staff."
Taking over from Bertrand is Thibaud Mezard, who is being promoted to France operations manager. Thibaud has worked alongside Bertrand for the pa
USA - Building on the momentum from the previous year’s launch of the Panther large-format linear line array, Meyer Sound closed out 2023 as yet another banner year marked by breakthrough new product introductions and record-breaking sales figures.
“We’ve been on an exhilarating journey these past two years,” says senior vice-president John McMahon. “It’s been a transformative time for Meyer Sound. What started last year with Panther and continued this year with the introduction of the 2100‑LFC [low-frequency control element] has inaugurated a new era for our company.”
Panther-based systems were installed across a range of venues from clubs to arenas in 2023, including The Fillmore in San Francisco and the Mohegan Inspire Entertainment Resort in South Korea. Elsewhere, Panther arrays started their summer-long residencies at Cadence Bank Amphitheatre in Atlanta, GA and Hayden Homes Amphitheatre in Bend, OR.
The Leopard compact linear line-array loudspeaker continued in 2023 as a popular solution for venues requiring a smaller profile, including the Paramount Theatre in Oakland, CA. In addition, the Lina very compact linear line array loudspeaker was highlighted at the Guild Theatre in Menlo Park, CA. Point-source solutions continued to thrive, such as an install at the Lithuanian State Puppet Theatre in Vilnius, Lithuania.
Meyer Sound Panther systems were shuttling across continents throughout 2023 on stadium and arena tours. Ed Sheeran’s monumental + - = ÷ x (‘Mathematics’) tour hit North America, with a system c
UK - Stereo Covent Garden is the creation of Experimental Group, known for luxury hospitality spaces throughout Europe and the United States. A vibrant and varied music programme is offered each night, beginning with a house band providing relaxed vibes, before the stage is turned over to a rotating series of resident DJs.
The interiors of Stereo Covent Garden have been designed by London-based studio Afroditi, which has created a moody atmosphere for Stereo's interiors, using lighting and mirrors reminiscent of the prohibition-era. Considering the opulent interiors and the wide area to cover, it was crucial to design a compact sound system that could provide crystal-clear sound while also fitting within limited available space or diverting customers' attention.
Solotech UK Group was appointed to design and install the lighting and audio solution for Stereo. Solotech chose a combination of L-Acoustics A Series and X Series as the ideal audio solution for this project, to provide a versatile soundscape with optimal sound coverage for the various areas which included a main stage, bar, DJ booth, and restroom, while remaining discrete and melting into the décor.
“We wanted a clean, clear and precise soundscape,” explains Mikey Sorbello, music coordinator at Stereo Covent Garden. “We knew that L-Acoustics is renowned for its impeccable clarity, depth, and richness, and were confident this would give Stereo Covent Garden innovative sound.”
The main stage sound system consists of two clusters of six L-Acoustics A15 Wide with two KS21 subwo
Sri Lanka - The production of Kuweni the Musical by Charitha Attalage showcased the seamless integration of Allen & Heath's audio equipment with the multidisciplinary performance.
A captivating multi-sensory experience uniting a diverse team of composers, musicians, visual artists, songwriters, and more to create an immersive performance, the musical took place over four days with five sold-out shows at the Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksha Theatre.
Allen & Heath's audio solutions played a pivotal role in bringing the production to life, with the equipment line-up including a dLive S7000 Surface, two DM64 MixRacks, four DX168 expanders, and three networking cards (gigaACE, Waves V3, and Dante 128x128).
Handling both FOH and monitors on the dLive S7000 was audio engineer and founder of rental company Universal Sound Productions, Malinda Lowe. Leveraging the dLive system, Lowe orchestrated a complex setup of 128 inputs and 64 outputs, ensuring impeccable audio quality throughout the show's 90-minute duration.
“As a sound engineer, I travel around the world for work, and I get to used different types of boards every time,” said Lowe. “Last year I wanted to try the dLive on our Australia tour, and I loved the ecosystem and the workflow of the board. When we were planning for the Kuweni the Musical concert, I knew the consoles I owned at the time were not going to meet this kind of complex requirement. I had many challenges to overcome with the music director's requirements, so I decided to invest in a dLive system – the fi
USA - In a recent survey of professional audio manufacturers whose product lines span the gamut of audio specialties, half the respondents said immersive audio now ranges from a significant to a solidly pervasive and permanent component of audio production workflows, while all respondents expect to reach that level of pervasiveness within five years.
The Professional Audio Manufacturers Alliance (PAMA) conducted the survey, asking its member companies to assess the impact of the burgeoning immersive audio movement on their product development and business. Two-thirds of participating companies reported significant current overall demand for products with immersive audio capabilities. Eighty per cent of the respondents expect products with immersive audio features to be a growth area in their company's portfolio of products over the next five years, with a third of all respondents seeing great potential for growth.
Unsurprisingly perhaps, given an evolving marketplace with varied levels of maturity across market verticals, current immersive audio product demand is cited as strongest in film, TV and gaming where established protocols are baked into delivery formats and devices. “Dolby Atmos is in a leadership position for immersive formats for both music and film/TV,” says Chris Hansen, director of recording, Harman International (JBL, AKG, Soundcraft, Lexicon and more). “Sony's game console, as a delivery system, helps push their Sony 360 format.”
Gary Boss, marketing director for Audio-Technica, was also among those giving Dolby a nod: “A
USA - Fulcrum Acoustic has introduced Fulcrum One, a system design and simulation software available for Windows and Mac. This comprehensive software environment streamlines the design, deployment, and management of both traditional sound reinforcement and immersive audio systems within a single, user-friendly interface. The all-in-one nature of Fulcrum One saves time, reduces the need for multiple software applications, and caters to the needs of diverse audio projects.
Incorporating the Fulcrum Acoustic loudspeaker catalogue, Fulcrum One enables users to accurately plan and position loudspeakers within a 3D venue model. The software will also facilitate the creative design of active acoustics and object-based mixing components for immersive audio installations powered by the Fulcrum Immersive Venueflex processor.
A key feature of Fulcrum One is its acoustic simulation capability, which empowers users to accurately predict how their sound system designs will perform in real-life settings. Its rapid processing power enables near real-time calculations for loudspeaker coverage mapping and maximum SPL visualization. Fulcrum One also offers advanced optimization for line array configurations, signal processing, and system equalization.
Dr. Paul Henderson, vice president of software and immersive at Fulcrum Acoustic, expresses his enthusiasm: "Fulcrum One marks a significant advancement for us. It's developed with the audio professional in mind, blending intuitive control with powerful design tools. Its fast processing and comprehensive features are
USA - GAT3, an audio facility in Charlotte, North Carolina, has transformed a former stereo tracking room into a 9.1.6 Dolby Atmos studio equipped with PMC Ci series monitors.
Established 27 years ago by Glenn A Tabor III and his wife Susan, GAT3 is renowned for its outstanding facilities and equipment. The facility has five studios handling a range of audio projects, from music recording, mixing and mastering to voice overs, ADR and post production for film and television. It also has two sound stages, two video stages and a recording academy, teaching the next generation of audio engineers the skills of their trade.
Each of the facility’s studios are named after a precious stone (Opal, Onyx, Ruby, Emerald and Sapphire), and take their interior décor colour palette from the colour of the stone they represent. GAT3’s centrepiece, the new Dolby Atmos Sapphire Room, will soon be headed up by mix engineer and Dolby Atmos expert Richard Chycki, who is relocating from Toronto to join the company.
“We decided to upgrade the Sapphire Room to Dolby Atmos because many of our customers were asking for album projects to be mixed in this format and we needed a state-of-the-art facility that would allow us to satisfy these demands,” says Glenn A Tabor III.
“The decision to install a PMC monitoring system was an easy one to make. I’d heard PMC speakers in many other studios and had always loved them because they are so precise. As an audiophile who has been into HiFi from a very young age, I felt there was only one brand that could deliver the
USA - In-ear monitor specialist Jerry Harvey Audio LLC (JH Audio) has filed for Chapter 11 reorganisation protection with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Florida.
Although the specific details and terms of the filing currently remain undisclosed, JH Audio Founder Jerry Harvey has issued the following statement: “The recent global pandemic created unparalleled challenges for businesses across the nation, and our company was no exception. Despite the resilience and determination of our team, the prolonged closures within the music and live sound industry, combined with reduced customer traffic, made it increasingly challenging to sustain normal business operations.
“In those unprecedented circumstances, we sought financial assistance through federal loans. Unfortunately, the complexity of the federal loan terms and the uncertainty surrounding the economic recovery have posed additional hurdles on us, and after careful consideration and exploring all other available options, we have made the decision to file for Chapter 11 reorganization protection.
“This is not a decision we have taken lightly, but it was a necessary step to restructure our financial obligations to allow us to get back to developing and managing the business. I am extremely grateful to my employees, customers, and partners for their unwavering support at this time.
“My priority is to repay their support and emerge from this process as a stronger and more resilient business. Our drive to innovate has never been stronger with new products coming to market,
Germany - Samsung has collaborated with KSCAPE to transform the meeting room experience at the Samsung Display Experience Centre in Frankfurt. The result is a solution based around KSCAPE Rail, which aims to eliminate the chaos of cables via integrated lighting and audio capabilities within a single dedicated product.
The inspiration for this project can be traced back to conversations between Kris Hogg, head of partnerships at Samsung, and Tom Ríby, global sales and marketing manager at KSCAPE.
“Kris and I shared a frustration with modern meeting room disorganisation and complexity. It was clear to us was that the productivity buzzkill caused by cable clutter and technological issues during video calls was a massive time and money drain to businesses,” explains Ríby. “We started discussing how Rail and Samsung could be used together to create an intelligent, elegant yet simplified meeting space - free from cables and with effortless plug-and-play connectivity.”
A key focus of this project was to challenge the existing norms of the meeting room experience. With the meeting space at Samsung's Experience Centre due for a refresh, the opportunity presented itself to showcase a new take on an advanced meeting room experience.
Within the meeting space, two Rail units with symmetric, tunable lighting are installed above the table. A Truffle-KTR25 subwoofer from K-array, positioned under the table, adds depth to the audio experience. A K-array Kommander-KA04 amplifier powers both Rail and Truffle.
“Rail takes the necessary component
France - L-Acoustics is to be the platinum sponsor of the Audio Engineering Society (AES) International Acoustics and Sound Reinforcement Conference in Le Mans France from 23 to 26 January 2024.
Arica Rust, member of the Education & Scientific Outreach division at L-Acoustics is co-chairing the conference, whose objective is to bring together the minds of leading researchers and practitioners to discuss new ideas and to foster the next generation of industry innovators through the promotion of inclusivity and diversity.
The conference organising board consists of members of the AES Technical Committee on Acoustics and Sound Reinforcement, among others: Arica Rust, Manuel Melon, Adam Hill, Elena Shabalina, Marcel Kok, Hannah Goodine, Etienne Corteel, David Williams, Peter Mapp, Eddy Bøgh Brixen, and Pierrick Lotton.
The event will be hosted at and is being developed in partnership with Le Mans University, which is home to one of European Union’s largest acoustical labs.
Scott Sugden, director of product management at L-Acoustics will give the keynote presentation on the first day of the conference, offering attendees a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between sound and audience engagement.
L-Acoustics will present five papers and three workshops on a wide array of topics that include: groove perception in large immersive installations; main/sub summation quality; resonance perception in Ambiance; Milan AVB benefits for end-users; and loudspeaker system radiation estimation.
Attendees of the AES Internation
UK - Focusrite plc has announced the acquisition of UK-based Sheriff Technology Limited, trading as OutBoard, the company behind both TiMax immersive audio solutions and OutBoard stage rigging motor control products and PAT4 enterprise electrical safety testing. They will join the Audio Reproduction division of the Focusrite Group alongside Martin Audio, Optimal Audio, and Linea Research.
Founded in 2001 by Robin Whittaker and David Haydon, OutBoard is a UK-based company specialising in innovative entertainment technologies, which it sells globally. Operating under two sub-brands - TiMax and OutBoard - its products are vital for professionals in the audiovisual industry, particularly in live performances, event management, and the rapidly expanding sector of immersive sound experiences.
TiMax are pioneers in immersive sound, specialising in innovative audio and show control technologies through its Soundhub and Tracker D4 products, catering for a wide range of applications including entertainment, events, branding, themed environments, and exhibition spaces. Its solutions are frequently used for Broadway and West End shows, and together with sister Focusrite brand Martin Audio in particular, there will be many opportunities for future collaboration.
Under the OutBoard brand, the business designs, manufactures and sells industry standard rigging control products for live events, together with enterprise-level safety test, preparation and quality management for global rental companies and venues. Its solutions are commonly used across European markets
Australia - Seoul-born but now Bondi-based artist Vicki Lee recently opened her new gallery space in the neon-lit landscape of Potts Point, Australia. A love letter to Sydney, the gallery celebrated its launch with Lee’s new exhibition The Sound of Yellow. Playing with solfeggio frequencies - which have been proven to reduce stress, improve sleep and increase creativity - Genelec helped plug guests into the introspective exhibition.
The project began with Genelec’s Australian distribution partner Studio Connections, who were introduced to Lee through a mutual friend. Always advocating for the sonic power of Genelec, Studio Connections knew straight away that the brand would be an excellent choice for Lee’s immersive project. “It was a challenging concept which pushed us out of our comfort zone, but as we were relying on a Genelec system, we knew that the result would be really powerful and moving,” explains Deb Sloss, managing director at Studio Connections.
The Sound of Yellow encouraged visitors to play with their perception of three of the five senses. Lee describes painting as a “transcendent experience,” where colours have different sounds and scents, specifically yellow which she hears the loudest. “It’s forceful. It represents the beginning of each day, a sense of hope, and also the end of each day and a sense of rest,” she says. “It’s happy and melancholic at the same time.”
For the sound element of the exhibition, guests arrived in groups of six and were invited to “shed their persona” by uncloaki
Poland - As the year draws to a close, clubbers eagerly awaited the conclusion of the Polish DJ Championships, organised for the fifth consecutive year by Clubsound Management. This hotly anticipated showdown brought together the most talented club players, all vying for the coveted title of the ‘Best in the Art’. Past champions Mave, SPLT, PLK, and Wilga have paved the way, and on 9 December, the next champion emerged at Warsaw's Explosion Club.
The semi-final auditions kicked off at 11am, featuring 20 semi-finalists. In a format introduced in 2019, participants selected one of 10 flash drives with music and had 20 minutes to prepare their 10-minute competition set. The jury, consisting of renowned DJs, club residents, event organisers, and the editor-in-chief of DJ title, Shining Beats, carefully evaluated each performance. The top three DJs -Korn, DJ PLK, and DJ Salis - earned their spots in the night's final party.
Arcade Audio, KV2’s Polish distributor, provided a KV2 ES system for the competition. The jury opted for relatively low volume levels during the auditions, as it occasionally exceeded 93dB in their centre box, yet the ES1.0 mid-high loudspeaker ensured prolonged listening comfort and precision for nuanced DJ techniques during the several hours of auditioning. The accompanying ES1.8 subwoofers delivered a satisfying bass experience during high-energy performances.
“The ES system is a favourite amongst DJs the world over,” says Arcade Audio’s sales manager Zbigniew Kalarus. “It delivers world-beating sound quality i
UK - Free Your Mind: The Matrix is the immersive, dance-based reimagining of the ‘90s movie franchise, created specifically as the opening event for Manchester’s impressive new cultural space within Factory International. The brainchild of director Danny Boyle - who teamed up with choreographer Kenrick ‘H20’ Sandy, composer Michael ‘Mikey J’ Asante of Boy Blue, designer Es Devlin and writer Sabrina Mahfouz - the epic vision behind the production inevitably pulled the UK’s most creative talent into its orbit.
Sound design is by Gareth Fry, who specified TiMax SoundHub to handle the complex spatial audio requirements of The Warehouse where the event’s main action takes place.
The production moves from the smaller theatre space in Aviva Studios after the interval and significantly scales up into the vast 21m-high Warehouse, with its aircraft hangar proportions. Set up in a traverse and promenade configuration, Fry explains, “In such a big space, with that audience-performer configuration, imaging is critical.”
Whilst the role of TiMax in the performance is to guide the eyes of the audience to the next point in the action, TiMax provides extensive support to deal with what Fry describes as “the complexities of positioning sound in space as well as the complex delaying of multiple speaker systems. Fry explains further that, “…the distances of the stage extremes in comparison with the slow speed of sound really interfere with each other, especially when you have high tempo rhythmic music.”
Playback for the show is handled
Portugal - World Youth Day was first celebrated in 1985 at the invitation of Pope John Paul II, who organised a gathering in Rome on Palm Sunday to celebrate the Youth Jubilee of the Holy Year of Redemption. Sixty thousand young Catholics were expected, but 250,000 people from different countries came. Today, the event is celebrated every three to four years in a different country.
In 2023, World Youth Day took place over six days in Lisbon, attracting over 1.5m attendees. The largest event ever to be hosted in the city of Lisbon, the expansive, 100-hectare riverside Parque Tejo served as the primary location, with a massive stage and a series of screens and audio systems set up along a 3.5km-long open-air space to accommodate the international audience.
Supporting the event with concert audio capable of serving the massive crowds was an L-Acoustics K Series sound system, designed and deployed by Pixel Light.
Headlining the event, Pope Francis delivered a message of hope and unity to the world's youth from a 40m-wide and 24m-high stage conceived by architect João Matos. For Pixel Light, the challenge of creating a sound system that could encompass an audience spread over 430sq.m while maintaining impeccable speech clarity was familiar. An L-Acoustics rental partner since 2016, Pixel Light has a solid foundation of successful collaboration on major projects such as the Eurovision Song Contest 2018. For World Youth Day, Pixel Light’s daunting challenge was to ensure comprehensive audio and video coverage to 1.5m people over a sprawling 3.5km expa
New Zealand - The recent integration of an Allen & Heath dLive system into Kaylee Bell's Boots 'N All tour brought about a transformation, enhancing the performance experience for both the renowned New Zealand singer-songwriter and her band.
As someone who wears multiple hats during the live show, Kaylee Bell's front-of-house engineer and production manager Joshua Anderson described the arrival of the dLive system supplied by Jansen Pro Audio as a game changer for both him and the performers. "Eliminating the task of maintaining show files for multiple consoles has saved me endless amounts of time and has brought a whole new level of consistency to everything,” said Anderson.
One of the stand-out features of the dLive system is its DEEP processing capabilities, which have left the production team astounded. The ability to use onboard processing like DYN8, a powerful and sophisticated processor boasting four bands of dynamic EQ and four bands of multiband compression, and other FX have allowed Anderson to move away from relying on the external plugin solutions that were previously utilised. This transition has not only streamlined operations but has also significantly enhanced the audio quality of the performances.
In a notable shift, the band's monitoring has been seamlessly integrated into the dLive system, managed on a dLive Director setup handled by Nick Campbell. dLive Director serves as an editor and control software for dLive, enabling users to pre-configure the system offline, review and modify show files from guest engineers, and co
Canada - The Wolf Performance Hall is a concert hall, theatre, and meeting facility in downtown London, Ontario, located within the London Public Library. A fully accessible 369-seat theatre and cultural hub, Wolf Performance Hall’s tiered seating, excellent sightlines and outstanding acoustics make it one of the city’s most sought-after venues for performers and audience members alike.
The venue recently upgraded to a full EM Acoustics sound solution, installed by local integrators, Armor Pro in collaboration with OCTAV Integrated Design and Contact Distribution.
“The venue required a system that would provide even SPL coverage front to back without obstructing sight lines. Due to the multi-use nature of the venue, a left-centre-right configuration with a centre cluster dedicated to lecture and movie applications was also part of the initial brief,” explains Vaino Gennaro of Contact Distribution who was responsible for specifying the system. “EM Acoustics was chosen because of the precise tonal balance and coherent sound signature between all the different models in the product line.”
EM Acoustics’ flagship Reference series loudspeakers were chosen as the foundations of the system, with EM R12s installed in the left, centre and right positions, with the centre further reinforced by one R8. EMS-81s and EMS-51s were installed for out-fill and front-fill, and in the FOH sound booth. The EM Acoustics system was completed by EM DQ20 amplifiers, offering extremely high-power density in a convenient and flexible format.
“Through the