GAVLE, Sweden – Swedish sound company Center Stage, founded by former Spectra Stage & Event Technologies technicians, Robert Berglund and Mikael Andersson, in 2007, has expanded its inventory with its first Soundcraft Vi1 digital desk, purchased from local distributors Septon AB.
"I first encountered the Vi digital series at House of Dance in Oslo while on tour with Andersson Dance 2009," said Berglund, adding that he had used Soundcraft's analog consoles prior to that. "The desk certainly made a positive impression with its rather unique control surface, but also sturdy and genuine feel."
Flexibility was another key selling point – Center Stage supports gigs ranging from corporate events to live concerts – and reliable support helped clinch the deal. "We looked at the mid-range market and there were several excellent options. But it was the service and support we knew we could rely on from Septon that swayed us towards Soundcraft," Berglund noted.
"The Vi1 went straight out of the box and onto its first gig," Berglund added. "All the basics were quick to find and navigate, and the quality and feel of the desk makes the FOH position a nice environment in which to work. In fact we expect all of our staff to be mixing on it by the end of the summer."
For now, Center Stage is operating its compact Vi1 in standard configuration, with 32 channels of analog input and 27 analog outputs, plus six digital inputs, four stereo FX returns and six digital outputs. In the future, they anticipate upgrading to 64 channels by adding a stagebox and MADI card.
"So far it feels like a very good decision, as on top of everything else, the Vi1 is also a very competent theater desk," Berglund concluded.
For more information, please visit www.harman.com and www.centerstage.se.
