A total of seven consoles were set up, all wired and configured from a single Stage Rack, comprising a D5 at front of house and monitors for the main area stage, a D5 RE also at FOH and a Soundtracs DS-00 for an OB truck positioned stage left. Further D5s were set up for an in-depth training session for existing users, another in the 'Black Room' for new users, while the 'Blue Room' contained a D1 for those wishing to learn about DiGiCo's latest addition. Managing director Bob Doyle introduced the company and the products, followed by a hands-on demonstration using both multitrack playback and a live band. "I'd been a bit nervous about the whole digital thing," said FOH engineer, Nick Warren. "But having gone through it with the DiGiCo guys and had the chance to have a proper play with a D5, I'm going to insist on having one on my next tour."
"It was great to see so many new faces in attendance, as well as those we already know and love," commented marketing director David Webster. "It just goes to prove that there is an immense amount of interest in the whole concept of digital mixing consoles. The set up worked extremely well and the feedback we've had is fantastic. This is just the first in what we hope will become a regular event."
(Lee Baldock)