Soundcraft’s Spanish distributor, Earpro, has underlined the continuing success of the manufacturer’s Vi series digital desks, with the recent installation of a Vi4 at El Teatro Campoamor in Oviedo.

Roberto Alonso, technical manager of the 120-year-old venue, believes it is easy to pinpoint the success of Soundcraft digital audio mixers: “The Vi4 is very user-friendly,� he states. “After 20 years using an analogue mixer, the transition has been an easy one to make. In very little time sound engineers can gain the same confidence they had when using any traditional mixer.�

Sound quality is one of the biggest issues for sound technicians and engineers — and again, it is easy for Roberto Alonso to defend his choice. “There are certain applications where a particular technology or platform can be more suitable than another. In our case, the improvement in audio quality has been noticeable right across our programme of events. Due to the varied nature of our theatre programme many different technicians will mix shows through our sound system — and generally the opinions have been entirely positive. Our Vi4 has already been used in operas, zarzuelas, ballets and all types of event.�

Alonso also highlighted the importance of the integrated dynamics and effects processors within the consoles. “Some other brands offer integrated DSPs but only Soundcraft mixers carry the signature of BSS, dbx and Lexicon,� he said. “Thanks to the console’s quality and large provision of dynamics processing, we have been able to get rid of our external rack and cabling entirely, so now we have a much cleaner and more comfortable workspace.�

He also praises the mixer’s versatility in terms of sends and connectivity. “For many events we are not only responsible for the live sound of the theatre but also for its broadcast mix. In the past we would hire a traditional mixer for this purpose — but now we simply split the Vi4 workspace and each of us works with our respective equalization, levels, etc.�

Earpro is firmly convinced that digital audio is the gateway to the future and fully endorse the Soundcraft roadmap. “Soundcraft’s mission hasn’t ended with the Vi series — the new Si series proves that an ‘analogue’ method working is not incompatible with the digital era. This compact mixer features the major advantages of digital mixers.�

They are equally excited about the recent launch of the new Vi2 — offering a Vi series desk in just 85cm of real estate.