Academy Music Group's contractors, Marquee Audio - asked to create a top quality infrastructure for the company early on in their relationship - had opted for the MH3 as the centre of a top-spec monitor set-up. Since standardizing on the 32-channel MH3 at the stage end they have been specifying 40-input desks at front-of-house. "With the exception of Islington, every Academy venue now has an MH3 out front, as well as for monitors," observed Marquee Audio MD, Spencer Brooks.
AMG decided to pioneer high-level referencing a number of years ago, providing an enviable technical infrastructure for visiting bands. Brooks continued: "We backed the MH3 as soon as it was released because few desks can match the number of features for the money. It was a natural decision to build the Academy's monitor section around this solution - as it is a solid, reliable desk, supported by the Soundcraft name, which everyone recognizes. The MH3 is perfect for this level of performance and does the job very well."
The MH3 offers complete console flexibility and 'one-touch' operation to place either Groups or Aux Masters onto faders. The characteristic Soundcraft sonic signature is delivered via a new high-headroom mic amp, classic British EQ and rigorous circuit design.
Spencer Brooks' endorsement is matched by the venue's technical manager Mark Boyle, who has moved down from the Carling Academy Glasgow to pick up the reins. "The sound quality in Newcastle has already shown itself to be fantastic, and the monitor section untouchable.
"The MH3 offers great value for money and is ample for what we need it to do; it's a dual-purpose desk - excellent for monitors and front-of-house - and does exactly what it is meant to do. All the time we've been using it in our venues I have never heard anyone complain."
Given the highly-specified set-up, Mark envisages that an increasing number of incoming bands will want to play through the Academy's house system.
(Lee Baldock)
