London-based Capital Sound Hire has become the first UK company to take delivery of a NEXO STM Series modular line array system, and Wigwam Acoustics has also confirmed its purchase of a STM system.
Both companies have been involved for two years in the development of STM.
The initial STM touring range incorporates three elements; the M46 Main cabinet, B112 Bass cabinet and S118 Sub-bass cabinet, which allow users to build systems for audiences from 200 to 100,000.
“With profit margins being squeezed, it’s crucial for the success of rental companies to get the maximum flexibility from their inventories,” says Paul Timmins of Capital Sound. “Prep costs money, and this system only requires configuration between projects, with no rebuilds necessary.”
The scalability of STM held great appeal for Capital, whose projects range from 10 people at small corporate events to stadium and outdoor shows for 60,000 plus.
“What has become evident is that most current loudspeaker systems require you to stock up to four sizes of line array boxes to cover the variation in room sizes,” Timmins continues. “Often, during the winter months, an entire inventory of large format loudspeakers can sit idle while there is a shortage of small and mid-sized cabinets.
“The concept of STM is amazing, with true multi-use options for all components including the amplifier racks. System designs can take into consideration not only room limitations but also musical content. It’s a fantastic addition to the tool box.”
Capital, which will ultimately own a 48-box system an inventory of 48x M46 Mains, 48x B112 Bass and 48x S118 Subs, is initially planning to introduce the components on small-scale events. This will ramp up during summer 2013 to larger projects that will allow engineers to get to grips with its full capabilities.
“NEXO has been a great company to work with,” concludes Timmins of the STM project. “They have a fantastic R&D team and they also know where all the best restaurants are!”
In STM terminology, Wigwam’s package is 48 sets: 48 x M46 main cabinets, 48 x B112 bass cabinets and 48 x S118 sub bass units. The system specification is identical to that ordered by Capital Sound.
The main criteria for the new system, according to Wigwam’s Chris Hill, was, “will it sound good, will it be flexible, and quick to rig? NEXO engineers really listened; STM is scalable, and we can use it for many different applications instead of it just being able to do certain types of work. We’re hopeful that this will give us maximum utilization of our stock.”