Focus Advanced Event Technology from Amsterdam was responsible for audio, video and lighting of 17 different locations with this annual event. The three largest stages featured Alcons pro-ribbon sound systems.
At the Nieuwmarkt, the Province Noord-Holland stage hosted performances of Trijntje Oosterhuis and Acda en de Munnik a.o. The Alcons system at this stage consisted of 18 LR16 compact line-array modules and six LR16B high-efficiency line-arrays bass systems.These systems were amplified and controlled by Alcons ALC4 controller-amplifiers with DDP.
Close to the Muziektheater was the Grolsch stage where on Saturday and Sunday a variety of world music, jazz and cabaret was presented. The system for this stage featured Alcons LR14 ultra-compact line-array systems and 12 BF302 double-15" subwoofers.
For the main stage on the Dam, in front of the Royal Palace, where artists like Matt Bianco, Wende Snijders, Ruth Jacott and Alain Clark performed, system tech Gijs Schouten of Focus Advanced Event Technology configured a different sound system, in cooperation with Alcons Audio.
The system for the main stage consisted of 18 Alcons LR16 line-array systems per side, with left and right flanked by a special 12" mid-bass array; This was to ensure a controlled projection, with minimal spill on stage. For sub response, per side nine Alcons BF362 were positioned in a '3x3 end-fire' cardioid configuration. As front-fill a further six LR16 per side were used.
This approach is part of a new test programme of Alcons. According to system tech Gijs Schouten the system passed the test with enthusiastic reactions from visiting engineers. He says: "I was surprised how easily the system could be adjusted to all different styles of performances: The gain-before-feedback was very impressive, with so many open (orchestra) mics on stage."
The results will provide input for coming Alcons product developments, the company says.
(Jim Evans)
