SA Van Conversions produces top-quality modifications across South Africa and the SADC countries. While the company specialises in panel vans, a recent project saw the Durban-based company partner with Stage Audio Works to deliver an A/V-equipped touring bus for KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board Maritime Centre of Excellence (KZN Sharks Board) to use during live demonstrations – which include the dissection of a shark in front of the audience.
Stage Audio Works (SAW) was called in to design and install the A/V system for the truck, which opens up to create a full stage complete with integrated PA and large video screen. SAW specified a Plus Audio and Pixel Plus systems for audio and video respectively to immerse and engage audiences – especially younger generations. The company also supplied a DJ set-up, comprising Denon components along with a pair of Plus Audio M13 stage monitors.
‘After talking with SA Van Conversions and the end-client, we decided on a Plus Audio sound system based on the compact Li-series which offers an excellent quality-to-price ratio and is ideally sized for the project,’ explains SAW Sales Rep, Victor Vermaak. ‘Four L208 loudspeakers and two L118 subs are per side are built into the van as in L/R stacks. The system is powered by our proprietary Stage Plus 12AD amplifiers.’
SAW also supplied a Sennheiser EW100 G4-835-S handheld wireless system, paired with an additional corded E835 microphone. ‘This solution is durable and easy to use, and the cardioid design of the E835 is also ideal for KZN Sharks Boards presentation style and touring requirements,’ Vermaak says.
‘For the visual element, we supplied a fully weatherised outdoor Pixel Plus LED screen mounted inside the truck on what is effectively the back wall of the stage,’ he continues. ‘We paired it with a Novastar processing solution. We’ve found this combination to be highly effective across a number of projects.’
Stage Audio Works also provided Stage Plus flightcases to protect the equipment while on the road, specifically for the Denon DJ equipment, amplifiers, microphones and mixing console.
‘This project was particularly close to our hearts,’ says SAW CTO, Nathan Ihlenfeldt. ‘Many of us recall witnessing the same KZN Sharks Board live dissection when we were younger. The organisation is renowned for their work, and it’s great to see them carry it forward, finding new and exciting ways to educate future generations on living in harmony with sharks while minimising environmental impact.’
‘Our portfolio of work is naturally extensive – clients often come to us requiring highly-specific bespoke solutions – but even so, this project was a first,’ says Justin Williams from SA Van Conversions. ‘We’re thankful for SAW’s assistance in the design and supply stages. Together we’ve implemented a cutting-edge system that the KZN Sharks Board are already putting to great use.’
More: www.stageaudioworks.com
