Ending a long search for a suitable mid-sized loudspeaker array, UK-based Limelight Presentation Systems has invested in a Martin Audio’s MLA Compact system.
Having been a Martin Audio house for ten years, Limelight Head of Audio, Dave Plant had reviewed all the premier brands before deciding that the time was right to invest in MLA Compact: ‘We service an eclectic mix of events and we’ve been looking at MLA Compact ever since it came out with a view to replacing our [Martin Audio] LCs,’ he explains. ‘But because of the varied nature of our work – providing coverage for 10,000 people at a festival one moment and then doing a corporate show for 500 the next – we thought long and hard.
‘Setting up AB testing was difficult, but we knew the sound of MLA and the stats were impressive. Also, the original Wembley Arena presentation of the large system had answered all the questions about line array deployment, and the shortfalls – which made it very exciting. Finally, we knew that MLA was voiced similarly to the LC and we would be able to run it alongside, for out fill or near-field duties.’
The delivery comprises 24 MLA Compact elements and 13 MLX subwoofers. Plant said the only criteria was that the new system would achieve a 75m-80m throw, ‘and we immediately achieved that,’
The system saw first use on a three-day event at the 7,500 capacity Don Valley Bowl in Sheffield, promoted by evergreen local venue The Leadmill, with Hacienda Classical, George Ezra and Ocean Colour Scene headlining the respective nights. Limelight rigged the entire complement, with 12 MLA Compact flown each side and four stacks of three MLX along the front in broadside cardioid pattern, with a W8LC mounted on top of each stack for front fill.
With bands like The Coral and The Bluetones also on the bill the event was an unqualified success. Plant, who was also production manager, and system tech Will Dickinson had little difficulty in optimising the sound using Martin Audio’s Display software. ‘We used the Hard Avoid setting and comfortably met Sheffield Council’s offsite sound limits, while maintaining around 100dB(A) in the Bowl at the mix position,’ Plant confirms. ‘Reports were that the system sounded stunning, and everyone was very happy.’
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