The SmarTmasts were used to hang seven V-DOSC and two dv-dosc cabinet line arrays supplied by Delta Sound. These were strategically placed along the Victoria Embankment in a sound scheme, designed for Jack Morton by Jim Lambert of Delta Sound, and used to amplify the chimes of Big Ben above the excited hubbub of the crowd as the 60 second pre-midnight countdown began. The PA was also used to amplify pre-show music and announcements before the spectacular fireworks, lighting, and projection kicked off on the stroke of midnight.
Summit's SmarTmasts are one of the most popularly used event PA mast structures in the UK. Delta specified SmarTmasts because they offer the most versatile solution to meet the logistical challenges of the site - which included no access for heavy plant. SmarTmasts are completely self-contained and self-erecting, utilising a 'sheer leg' system. The SmarTmast's small footprint enabled them to be sighted on paths in the parks dotted along the Embankment, rather than on the grass, which is often delicate and easily damaged during winter.
Ten metres was chosen as the optimum mast height to allow the speakers the flexibility of being focussed to throw the sound image over the mature trees and shrub 'canopy' buffering between the gardens and road. Each of the 800Kg weight arrays were rigged at a slightly different heights once flown from the Masts.
Summit's team of four riggers was led by Jon Bray, with the Summit crew working closely with Delta's team headed by Jim Lambert. The event was designed and produced by Jack Morton, project director was Jeremy Garbett, and producer was Jim Donald.
(Chris Henry)
