Livewire Youth Project, a charitable organization based in Saltash, England that provides a free opportunity for young people to learn musical instruments, form a band and/or learn live and studio audio and stage lighting, recently partnered with Electro-Voice and Dynacord to refit its live performance venue where it uses contemporary music and music technology to encourage productive activity.
While the venue features a professional recording studio – provided by Pete Townshend of The Who – the 200-person capacity live music space hosts a variety of events and shows by established artists to help the charity raise funds. However, its main purpose is to give young people the chance to practice performance skills, perform in public and learn how to use a professional stage. The new system replaces a predecessor that was aging and no longer met the required standards.
“Technology advances in audio systems had overtaken the systems installed at Livewire,” says Andy Rance, Livewire venue manager. “Some of the opportunities available to members include gaining experience in the operation and maintenance of audio systems, sound engineering and stage management, so we needed a new system to provide a facility for training.”
The new system incorporates compact Electro-Voice line arrays with five XLE-181 elements per side serving as mains, with six EKX-18S subwoofers delivering low frequencies. All loudspeakers are driven by four Dynacord L3600FD multi-channel power amplifiers that include FIR drive, onboard DSP and protection circuitry.
“The impact of the system in the venue is huge,” states Rance. “The transformation took place in one day, so it immediately made a difference to the members. Livewire now has a modern audio system capable of supporting the development and training of young people, both in terms of sound engineering and by offering the opportunity to rehearse and perform onstage with a considerably enhanced sound system.”
“It was an absolute pleasure to work with Livewire on their upgrade,” adds Arthur Achard, senior sales manager UK for Dynacord and Electro-Voice. “We really respect the work they are doing in their local community and are happy to support their efforts to help young people become part of the music scene and gain a better understanding in professional-grade entertainment technology.”
