SR/Live Sun, November 23, 2008

Live Sound International caught up with the tour at its Toronto, Canada, date at the Molson Amphitheatre on the city’s waterfront. Ken “Pooch” Van Druten, FOH Engineer for Linkin Park, took time out of his busy day to discuss what the tour was using and why. “All audio gear was selected exclusively by myself and Kevin McCarthy, the monitor engineer,” explained Pooch. “We get hired to make Linkin Park sound the best they can be, and use the tools we need to do that.”

Pooch is recording the show each night, to eventually be remixed and posted for limited-edition sale on the band’s website. He didn’t select the VENUE for its ability to communicate with Pro Tools, although that’s a convenience that he’s happy to have. “I went with the Digidesign desk because it’s the best sounding digital desk out there right now. The band is very Pro Tools-oriented, and I knew they would feel very comfortable around that piece of equipment.”

For PA requirements, the Adamson system was an easy choice, as the band was familiar with the products. “It’s a wonderful sounding line array,” stated Pooch. “Our Production Manager had a previous relationship with Adamson and he asked me to use their gear. Simply put, it was the right choice for this band.”

To wrap up, Pooch explained what he found most interesting on the tour, namely the process of getting the band’s music online. “I think the whole record process is the real difference on this tour. Not many bands sell shows, and those that do certainly do not deliver them in five days like we do. It was a lot of work, but I am proud of what we accomplished – of course having three complete Macintosh Pro Tools HD3 rigs at my disposal was great as well!” Jeff MacKay is Managing Editor for Live Sound International.