Simple Minds, the pop-rock band that first made waves in the 1980s, is currently in the midst of a UK and European tour, “Big Music + Greatest Hits 2015,” with front of house engineer Olivier Gerard (aka Gg) utilizing an Intelli-X 2 48 loudspeaker processor and system management device from Apex.
“On tour you need to be both reliable and efficient,” explained Gerard, who’s been working with the band since 2009. “That means you need good tools. The Intelli-X 2 is the equivalent of the Swiss knife for front of house engineers – in other words, it does everything, and does it well. It’s great to have in any situation, but it really comes into its own if you’re touring a lot on house PA systems.”
The Intelli-X 2 48 is a 4-in, 8-out system processor and management system offering plug-and-play functionality. Equally suited as either a stand-alone controller for smaller events or as part of a wireless network for arena or stadium-sized tours, Intelli-X 2 offers a range of processing functions plus system management tools for system alignment and EQ, including the provision of IIR and FIR-based crossovers.
“It’s all there, just a click away,” continues Gerard. “Filters, delays, graphic EQs, parametric EQs etc. on both the inputs and the outputs. The ability to select either AES or analogue inputs and outputs is great, and when you’re touring with a smaller desk, you can drive up to eight outputs from your main feed – that’s really handy.
“You can configure and control it from your laptop, but if you prefer not to for any reason, the front panel LCD is really intuitive and easy to use. Personally, I always have one in my rack to stay in full control of my audio. I wouldn’t go on tour without it.”
Simple Minds has also released its 16th studio album, “Big Music,” which pays homage to the group’s musical past while invoking a modern twist.