A Soundcraft Si3 is an integral part of the advanced technical infrastructure devised by Northern Light for the new Aylesbury Waterside Theatre in Bucks, UK.
Delivering evenly-dispersed sound to every seat in the 1,200-seat auditorium (1,800 if used in standing mode) was among the priorities for Northern Light, which operated within the framework of a specification compiled by Carr & Angier Theatre Consultants.
To meet the need for a cost-effective digital console, Northern Light project manager Simon Cooper selected a Soundcraft Si3 64-input desk which can either be operated from the control room set above the first floor balcony, or from a mixer lift position in the stalls. The desk was supplied by Soundcraft UK/ROI distributor Sound Technology Ltd.
“We were able to offer the theatre a better mixing solution than originally planned, for the same price — and they were delighted,” stated Simon Cooper. “We recommended the Si3 largely because, although digital, it is basically a direct replacement for an analogue desk, and all the existing cable infrastructure was there.
“While retaining that analogue feel, this solution offers a lot more processing power, all built into the desk. This means that they are saving space on outboard equipment and getting a lot more than they were expecting within the desk.”
In addition, portable racks have been supplied for use in meeting rooms, with a Soundcraft EPM6 provided for mic and line mixing.
Among many other tasks, Northern Light also undertook networking through two lighting bridges and a forestage, as well as the equipping of multiple ancillary areas, including a 225-capacity studio/function space.
