Sussex Events puts faith in Martin Audio WPC
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But by January 2017, popular demand was suggesting that it should switch its attention to a line array solution. “Our point source systems were starting to be pushed to their limits,” admits co-founder Robert Watson. “Therefore we needed something that would cover the upgrade and also fit within our budget, enabling us to tap into a bigger market by taking on work to that we couldn't have delivered without the new system.”
So after a long search, guided by dealers Leisuretec, the Hailsham-based company chose a new Martin Audio scalable resolution Wavefront Precision Compact (WPC), SEL had set some stringent criteria. “We wanted a system without compromise on either audio or build quality, expandable coverage for 2,500 people upwards, prediction software, local support - and ideally designed and manufactured in the UK,” Watson continued.
While Leisuretec advised on issues such as pricing of competitive systems, Sussex Events’ technical team attended different manufacturers’ demo days, including Martin Audio, while the SEL man himself started paying more attention when mixing for other companies on different systems.
Eventually he gave the nod to Martin Audio. “The brand has always been close to our hearts,” he said, qualifying the decision. “We had run with W2 boxes since starting the company and one of the main theatres that we work at is all Martin Audio. Their systems have always hit the spot with us whereas other brands have fallen short. And the Demo Day certainly helped us see that the system would do what we wanted.”
The company placed the order for eight WPC tops and four SX218 (2 x 18) subwoofers with Leisuretec, along with some Martin Audio Blackline X8 as front-fill. “The plan is to double this in the coming years, but if the demand continues to grow then we will look at taking it to 12 boxes a side with 12 subwoofers.”
The new WPC went straight out on one of SEL’s original clients, the nearby Elderflower Fields Festival at Uckfield, which was itself having a refresh, with new main stage and lighting design. “So we wanted to do the same by delivering a new sound rig,” said the SEL director.
Following Elderflower Fields, the system wasted no time in reinforcing several other outdoor summer events “We’ve had around 12 engineers work on the system now and there's not been a bad word said. After the software setup the system needs very little tuning and gives you all the power you need.
(Jim Evans)
