Manchester-based audio specialists, tube uk, take delivery of a new d&b KSL line array speaker system plus assorted rigging elements in a significant investment underlining the strength, diversity and buoyance of tube’s business and operational planning for the immediate and longer-term future.
This initial order comprises 20 x KSL8 and four KSL12 top cabinets plus 8 x KSL-SUBS, a complete new system which is added to tube’s existing stocks of d&b Y and V-Series together with the associated D80 amplifiers that the company already owns.
tube works extensively in the music, performance, arts, and corporate / industrial event sectors, also specializing in managing audio for quirky, complex, and challenging projects.
Since the post-pandemic restart, shows have been steadily growing, getting more sonically ambitious and being staged in larger venues. “It was absolutely the right time for us to step up and invest in a system for medium to large rooms and spaces,” explained tube’s Melvyn Coote.
It also reflects the tube team’s commitment to d&b, a global leader among live performance audio brands. The products were delivered through Solotech, d&b’s UK sales partner.
Melvyn noted that they wanted KSL not just for the room or event capacity that this system can cover, but also for its superior directionality and, naturally, that famous d&b finesse and sound quality.
Directionality is essential for containing sound and reducing noise spillage at festivals and outdoor events and for many indoor set ups, particularly the more experimental shows, so high directional control was a major factor in the decision to go with KSL.
KSL is also fast and straightforward to rig, and with that in mind, the purchase includes all associated rigging needed to fly four top hangs – in both tension and compression configurations, and two sub hangs. Additionally, ground stack rigging was part of the package for maximum adaptability when working in that mode.
“With the variety of work that we cover, maximum flexibility and every possible option is critical,” confirms Melvyn.
tube already has rental orders being placed for the system by their clients, including Factory International for a 5,000-capacity warehouse space within their new landmark venue, Aviva Studios.
This acoustically designed space – measuring 85 by 35 meters with an impressive 21 meters of height clearance – needs a system that packs a punch to embrace Factory International’s lively program of music, arts, dance and other performance concepts.
Working with Manchester International Festival (a city-wide event delivered by Factory International every two years) for over 20 years, tube had Aviva Studios in mind when selecting KSL as a perfect product to support this ongoing collaboration.
“KSL is a perfect fit for this space, and so many others,” says Melvyn, who together with other tube engineers, attended d&b’s excellent KSL training session.
tube has been investing in d&b since the company was started in 2001 and has kept moving with the technology. Initially the E-Series was purchased for conferences and corporates, next came the Q-Series, which was their first line array system, then the Y-Series which expanded upwards to the V-Series.
So, with all these options – elements of the older kit are still out, working and giving great results – plus the latest KSL, tube has a fantastic range of products to offer its clients and deliver excellent sounding and inventive solutions for all sonic scenarios.
Photos: Courtesy tube uk