The newly-launched Vi1 compact digital desk from Soundcraft has been installed at the new flagship Glee Club, which hosts an eclectic mix of comedy and music.
Project installer Pacific Sound & Light recommended the Vi1 to Glee Club owner Comic Enterprises after working on the resident Vi6 at O2 Arena’s IndigO2 while on tour last year. Attendance by venue product manager Jon Nash at SSE Audio Group’s Vi1 launch/training day also contributed to the selection, which was arranged by SSE via UK/ROI Soundcraft distributor Sound Technology Ltd.
The 32-input Vi1 is located in the 450 (seated)/700 (standing) capacity main venue, but can be transported to any of Comic Enterprise’s other three venues thanks to its ability to work with any local stagebox. In addition, a MADI card for stagebox connection will allow expansion to 64 channels (via Cat5) if required. The sound system installation and Vi1 training was masterminded by Pacific’s Matt Trigg.
“The desk needed to offer everything required in a small package, and can be very rider-friendly – at a competitive price,” said Pacific Sound & Light’s Paul Duffy. “The Vi1 has a very high spec and provides us with a lot of flexibility as there is a monitor position; and if any visiting engineers arrive with a Vi6 they can plug straight into the stagebox, with 64-in and 32-out, as it is compatible with the existing Vi racks.”
Jon Nash is also pleased with the acquisition. “I have worked with digital consoles before, but I really wanted something that was both intuitive and which would take us through the next five years,” he said. “I had been asking bands what they would like to see — and the answer kept coming back Soundcraft. It’s something engineers recognise because a lot of people are using Vi6 and Vi4’s — and when I heard the price tag, that did it for me!”
In addition to the Vi1 in the main room, a Soundcraft EFX12 has been deployed in the 250 (seated)/350 (standing) capacity second space. Pacific also designed and installed a lighting spec based around LED fresnels, colour bars and house lights, all run off an Avolites Pearl Tiger.
