Alex Fernie, who originally trained as a sound engineer in Germany, today supplies equipment to all sectors of the entertainment/corporate market. Earlier this year he acquired an eight-box Nexo PS10 system (plus subs) for servicing Druid Theatre's world premier and Irish tour of the Synge Cycle, and for general conference duties in the Radisson Hotel. He has now boosted his inventory with the addition of the Radian RMW-1108 8" mini MicroWedges.
The sound man was first exposed to the MicroWedge on system designer Dave Rat's Ratsound website, before gaining first hand experience at this year's PLASA Show. "I was immediately interested, and after a pair of 1108s had been demoed I was sold," he reports.
Sensing their suitability for the large number of traditional folk bands that the company reinforces, Alex Fernie placed his initial order with the promise of more to come. "Apart from the flat response, the 1108s are great for seated musicians - such as those playing Uileann pipes, accordions and guitars. The small size means we can slot them anywhere, while their profile and even coverage gives the musicians the sense that the sound is 'around' them, rather than coming at them, as is the case with traditional 40° angled wedge."
Alex Fernie handles numerous gigs where monitors are mixed from FOH, and the lack of need for a processor makes the 1108 a highly cost-effective option. The sound man also anticipates that the MicroWedge's low profile will be a unique selling point for TV usage, while the fact that it was designed (and is used) by the FOH engineer for the Red Hot Chili Peppers has attracted the interest of some of the local bands.
In conclusion, Fernie says: "Having the first MicroWedges in the West of Ireland has been a real coup for us and the reaction has been overwhelmingly positive."
(Lee Baldock)
