Solid State Logic Shines for Sir Tom Jones Tour
Sir Tom Jones recently embarked on an extensive 74-show tour across the U.K., Europe, and North America, titled the Ages & Stages Tour. This remarkable tour spanned 24 countries and showcased the exceptional audio capabilities of Solid State Logic (SSL) Live audio consoles. The tour utilized the L550 Plus for front-of-house (FOH) setup and the L100 Plus on a B rig, allowing for quick setups during the European leg of the tour.
Expert Mixing with SSL Consoles
Leading the sound for this monumental tour was Gavin Tempany, the FOH mixer since December 2023, known for his impressive background in mixing for prominent artists like Tame Impala and Genesis. Tempany detailed the necessity of having two sets of equipment for the tour, which allowed for efficient routing and flexibility during performances. The configurations of both the L550 Plus and L100 Plus consoles played a vital role in accommodating various venues and technical requirements.
One standout feature of the SSL Live system is its ability to seamlessly load show files across different console models without needing conversion software. This flexibility not only enhances compatibility with various hardware setups but also streamlines the workflow for audio engineers, ensuring a smoother performance experience for both the artist and the technical crew.
Unmatched Audio Quality and Performance
Tempany highlighted the superior audio quality produced by the SSL consoles, which offers a fast transient response and enhanced clarity from the mix bus operating at 64-bit floating point. He observed a significant improvement in audio quality when he transitioned from a previous console to the SSL Live system. The clarity and richness of Sir Tom’s vocals were preserved, elevating the overall concert experience for the audience.
The tour leaned toward minimal outboard effects, predominantly utilizing SSL’s built-in processing capabilities. Tempany strategically implemented dynamic EQ to manage frequencies during louder mixes while also tailoring compression settings to complement Sir Tom’s powerful vocal range. This careful approach ensured that the audio delivery remained consistent and professional across all performances.
Streamlined Mixing Techniques
To enhance control and organization during the mixing process, Tempany used Virtual Channel Assignments (VCAs), allowing for structured management of various musical elements. By efficiently grouping components, he maintained coherence in the mix and ensured console settings reset appropriately between scenes. This level of organization, combined with SSL Live’s user-friendly templates, enabled smooth transitions from one setup to another, further optimizing the technical aspect of the tour.
Tempany took a moment to address the common misconception about SSL Live consoles being overly complex. He emphasized that their unique interface merely requires a different approach to operating, advocating for simplicity in rock and roll mixing. By adhering to straightforward methods, he was able to maintain the audio integrity essential to delivering a powerful performance.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Sir Tom Jones and Solid State Logic on the Ages & Stages Tour exemplifies how cutting-edge technology and expert mixing can elevate live performances. The exceptional sound quality and user adaptability of SSL consoles have proven indispensable for creating memorable concert experiences. For those looking to enhance their own audio production capabilities, discovering the advantages of SSL Live systems could be the next step toward achieving professional excellence in sound quality.
