This one-off performance, utilised 24 Neumann digital microphones - a mix of seven TLM 103Ds, four KMS 105Ds and 13 KM 184Ds. The digital microphone set up was augmented with a few analogue evolution models, comprising two e904s, an e905, an e901 and two classic MD421's, demonstrating that the deployment of digital and analogue microphones together on one stage can be achieved with ease.
The Neumann digital microphones were fed straight into a DiGiCo SD Rack, via a bespoke 48 channel patchable AES multicore system and associated AES microphone cables, supplied by VDC Trading. The SD Rack contained eight AES 42 input modules, effectively eliminating the need for an external converter and achieving an all digital signal path from the back of the microphone capsules straight to broadcast. Control was via a DiGiCo SD9 digital mixing console which, in turn, fed an XTA DP448 for system control using standard AES left and right, direct to a pair of K-Array KR400s.
Dave Wooster and Alan March, sound reinforcement specialist and business development specialist respectively for Sennheiser UK, were on hand throughout, with Wooster mixing the performance for both monitors and FOH from the SD9 and supplying the BBC with their live sound feed with a direct MADI split from the SD rack.
"The whole production was geared around producing the best sound for the live broadcast, whilst providing the audience of invited guests with the best possible coverage without interfering with the broadcast sound," explains Wooster. "Also, for the first time, the majority of the stage was mic'd with a selection of Neumann's new digital microphones, providing a digital path from the back of the capsules through to the system processors feeding the K-array KR400 system in the auditorium, which Sennheiser UK also supplied.
Alan March continues; "We fully expect our investment in the SD Rack AES42 input cards to pay off. We are now in a position to demonstrate to anyone who wants to listen, the benefits of a digital mic set up in a live environment."
Hackney Empire is a traditional UK theatre, with a ground floor and three balconies. The audience was spread across the ground floor and the first balcony. A pair of KR400s were placed either side of the stage on the floor of the auditorium. From this position, using the system's flexible angle options, complete coverage was achieved.
"We created a very basic mix on the SD9 for the FOH system, as the main focus of this show was for the live radio broadcast, but the KR400s really made the most of the feed they received," continues Wooster. "The combination of the KR400s and the level of quality produced from the digital mics was a perfect partnership for this event."
(Jim Evans)
