PRG's LV8s were committed to rigging mothergrid and other trusses for all set elements and lighting, while UK Rigging's LV8s were looking after hanging the tour's large V-Dosc sound system. UK Rigging prepared two individual systems to deal with separate leapfrogging PA rigs planned to cater for the tour's rigorous back-to-back schedule. Both companies also bought an extensive complement of the new compact and ergonomic RC8 remote handsets, with UK Rigging also buying several RC16 16 channel units with handset splitter cables to control two LV8s each.
The LV8 extends Out Board's low-voltage hoist control product range hitherto based on the well-known CM-Series, and includes some additional and alternative features in response to demand from the international rigging community. LV-Series adds a front panel E-Stop switch which can also be linked between units, and the new RC8 and RC16 remote handsets also feature an onboard E-Stop switch. The connectors for the handset cable have been upgraded to a virtually mil. spec version of Souriau multipin connectors.
LV8 provides pairs of male and female Ceep (Socapex-style) rear panel outlets for four channels of separate power and control respectively, with an industry-standard wiring configuration researched with the help of Harry Box from UK Rigging/Concert Lights. Out Board plan to also offer optional dual channels of mixed control and power on each Ceep as demand arises.
Out Board also reports increased interest in the DM-Series of Direct controllers, with purchases of six DM8 units by Star Events along with HC8 handsets and trussmount DM-Splitters plus three DM8 units sold to a major Madrid rigging company by Spanish distributor Pro-Lighting. The DM-Series has also started to break into the North Amercian market with initial sales of DM4 and DM8 units to Scene Scapin Staging in Montreal, featuring Hubbell power connectors to suit local connection standards.
(Lee Baldock)
