Because of the complexities of delivering an even orchestral sound to large arena audiences, a number of finely controlled zones were required. Richard Sharrat, FOH engineer for the tour, used nine sends from the Digico SD-7 to Dante enable products. In order to ensure that these sends were combined properly, a Yamaha DME 64 with a Dante-MY16-AUD was used to transfer the AES outputs of the console to the entire Dante network.
The DME also allows for fine system matrix control and testing of the system independently of the console and FOH engineer. Final system EQ was achieved using two Dolby Lake Processors running MESA EQ modules, to an additional five Dolby Lake Processors and a Lab.gruppen LM26 acting as crossovers for the PA all distributed via Dante over fibre.
Josh Lloyd, systems technician for Brit Row Production said, "Using Dante over fiber replaced a 32 pair return snake. A tiny piece of fibre optic cable, will deliver far greater control of the sound, which is critical in such an application. Naturally Dante is capable of much more than this especially when employing a single mode fibre. Dante gives the reassurance that there is plenty of headroom in the network, and that everything is going to work reliably show after show."
(Jim Evans)
