The 2009 season saw Battle Proms take in six concerts in July and August, with Yamaha Commercial Audio's digital systems manager Nick 'Biggles' Pemberton mixing the shows on an LS9-16 console with an SB168-ES digital stage box.
Audio supplier for the shows was Luton-based Concert Sound Clair, who supplied an EAW/Clair Bros/Showco front of house system, together with Schoeps microphones to get the best of the orchestral sound.
"It's actually a very simple setup," says Pembereton. "All audio processing is done within the LS9 and I have a laptop wirelessly linked to the console. The desk is positioned side-stage, but I can walk on to the stage at soundcheck and out to anywhere in the field to adjust the system."
The wireless control system comprises a PC running Yamaha Studio Manager, which is physically connected to the LS9 via Cat 5 cable and a wireless switch. An Apple Mac Book Pro is wirelessly connected to the wireless switch, controlling the PC via Remote Desktop software.
"There are many variables that can affect the sound and the shows tend to attract very large audiences," says Pemberton. "Unlike a seated theatre, people can sit anywhere within the arena and it provides a much better spectacle for them not having a mix position tent in the middle of the field. So the wireless link is vital in allowing me to walk around the arena while the show is in progress to tweak the mix as necessary."
He concludes, "My whole approach to the system and mixing the shows is all about simplicity. The LS9 is has a tiny footprint, is easy to operate and it has the perfect range of features for this type of work. By using the new SB168-ES as well, I can really get the most out of the Schoeps microphones. It's a simple and very elegant solution for these shows."
(Jim Evans)
