Following a successful stint in North America, the Australian Pink Floyd Show (TAPFS) tribute band has returned to the UK for its DarkSide50 Tour 2023. This celebrates 50 years since Pink Floyd’s original Dark Side Of The Moon tour.

Significantly, the tour will also marry Martin Audio’s latest state-of-the-art Wavefront Precision line array technology, as fielded by 22live—who handle all audio production for TAPFS—and the original rig conceived by Martin Audio founder, Dave Martin and Bill Kelsey for that 1973 tour.

The idea of recreating this for arguably the greatest cover band on the road today came from Chris Hewitt (of CH Vintage) who floated the idea back in April.

Hewitt is known for having salvaged and curated much of the iconic equipment that toured concert halls and festivals in the 1960s and 70s, and selected items from his emporium can frequently be seen on show, lovingly restored, at major trade conventions.

He had already created Pink Floyd’s Live at Pompeii rig for that momentous event’s fiftieth anniversary in 2021 (which appeared at the 2022 PLASA Show in London). But in April this year he decided to take it further. Having discussed the idea of revisiting the Dark Side concept with Focusrite chairman, Phil Dudderidge, it was a later conversation at this year’s PLASA Show, in the depths of Olympia, that sealed the deal.

Of course, it also needed approval from the band, who in any case have long used Chris Hewitt’s resource for authentic components for the band’s guitar cabs (in order to capture Dave Gilmour’s precise original tone). He wasted no time in getting back in contact with Australian Pink Floyd founders, Stephen McElroy (aka Steve Mac), Jason Sawford and Lee Smith—who had themselves witnessed some of Hewitt’s Pompeii recreation. They were in favour of the idea, as were promoters SJM and the band’s management.

As a result, the 1973 rig will be on static display inside the venue foyers. But what does it comprise? Centrepiece is the legendary Kelsey / Martin 2 x 15 bins, (two 15” drivers vertically stacked rear facing) which were the first  production cabs Dave Martin ever made (after earlier attempting, but failing, to develop a 4 x 15).

Notes Chris Hewitt, “The Martin 2 x 15 Mk1 is the bin that launched the legendary Martin 1 x 15 W bin which became part of the modular system, along with the MH212 Philishave mid. It was realised that 2 x 15 Mk 1 cabs were heavy and didn’t always fit through venue doors, so Martin made a quick design decision to saw it in half horizontally.

“We are taking four of these original Kelsey / Martin bins, loaded with JBL K140s, and the midrange  for Pink Floyd in 1973, which was covered by silver flares with a mixture of Vitavox S2, Electro-Voice 1829 horns and JBL 2402 bullets. We also have those along with Phase Linear 400 amplifiers.”

Also on show are original Sennheiser MD409N vocal mics of the type used at Pompeii and on the DSOTM tour, and some of the original Pink Floyd flight cases in Hewitt’s possession, manufactured by the long-serving CP Cases.

It was hoped that when the doors open at each venue, the general public will be allowed in to view the foyer display only. The exhibit will also be available for an early sneak preview for holders of the special VIP packages, who arrive for soundcheck and ‘meet and greet’ with the band.

22live are happy to be a part of this retrospective, and in particular their hire director (and co-founder Paul Timmins) whose relationship with TAPFS extends back through many tours. “It’s unique that while we are providing the new technology of Wavefront Precision, with all its advantages of scalability and optimisation, in the auditoriums, out in the foyer we are connecting back to the original rig through which fans heard the soundtrack fifty years ago. It just shows how far the technology has come.”

For more information: https://martin-audio.com

LD Systems is the pro audio division of the German-based Adam Hall Group, with a portfolio of products covering most areas of live event technology, including small- to medium-sized PA systems, lighting, hardware and accessories. The original G2 Maui systems have been around for some 10 years and played a role in LD earning a place alongside the more established pro brands.

The G3 systems might supercede G2 but the concept is the same – a portable column system that’s easy to transport and set up with the benefits of line array technology. Compared to point source speakers, a line array’s pattern control throws the sound further by narrowing the vertical dispersion, concentrating the sound on the audience area. Less sound is thrown towards the ceiling thereby reducing room reflections and overall reverberation. The new Maui 11 G3 and Maui 28 G3 systems are aimed mainly at DJs and musicians but they’d also be ideal for corporate/presentation or educational applications. 

GEN THREE TOUR

The changes to the G3 Series begin with an aesthetic re-alignment of the column, it’s been moved forward and now sits flush with the front of the sub giving the system a more streamlined look. The sub cabinet is constructed from birch plywood and is finished in a glossy textured polyurea surface. The edges of the top of the sub cabinet and the side of the steel grille on the front are nicely beveled. Moving the column to the front of the cab has also made room for a recessed handle right in the middle of the sub cabinet where it’s easy to grab and the weight is evenly distributed.

The two column pieces feel solid and have some weight in them (~12kg) but they’re not unduly heavy, and recessed handles on the top and bottom make carrying them easy. Made from painted aluminium, they have a different finish to the sub cabinet but they don’t look mismatched — the wraparound steel grille across the front of the columns and the sub gives it visual continuity. The narrower grille pieces on the back of the columns are a nice touch. Attaching the columns to the sub is done by lining up the four metal prongs with the holes in the top of the sub, the 14-pin signal socket mates automatically when the column is in place. The lower column of the smaller Maui 11 G3 has no speakers — it’s there as a spacer, looks the same but is noticeably lighter than the column pieces with drivers.

Turbosound’s TQ series of point source speakers are designed to offer faithful reproduction of the source material, allowing enjoyment from the front row to the back of the room. With six models to choose from, the range offers various loudspeaker and subwoofer options: TQ8, TQ10, TQ12, TQ15, TQ15B and TQ18B. These are suited to both installed and touring sound-reinforcement requirements.

FULL-RANGE LOUDSPEAKERS
TQ8
The 2-way full range TQ8 is a processed passive 1,100-Watt 8-inch loudspeaker system ideally suited for a wide range of speech and music sound reinforcement applications. Engineered to work in conjunction with Lab Gruppen powered loudspeaker management systems, the TQ8 provides optimal performance for FOH, sidefill and delay line loudspeakers. The TQ8 loudspeaker features an 8-inch neodymium low frequency driver with a low mass voice coil for improved transient response, and a titanium dome 1.4-inch neodymium high frequency compression driver mounted onto an 80° horizontal by 30° vertical rotatable exponential horn paired with a dendritic plane wave transformer (DPWT) waveguide. All drivers are matched with an internal passive crossover network in a reflex-loaded enclosure cabinet. The rear panel connector plate carries 2x Neutrik speakON NL4 connectors for input and link connections to additional enclosures.

TQ10
The 2-way full range TQ10 is a processed passive 1,600-Watt 10-inch loudspeaker system ideally suited for a wide range of speech and music sound reinforcement applications. Engineered to work in conjunction with Lab Gruppen powered loudspeaker management systems, the TQ10 provides optimal performance for FOH, sidefill and delay line applications. The TQ10 features an 10-inch neodymium low frequency driver with a low mass voice coil for improved transient response, and a titanium dome 1.4-inch neodymium high frequency compression driver mounted onto an 80° horizontal by 30° vertical rotatable exponential horn paired with a dendritic plane wave transformer (DPWT) waveguide. All drivers are matched with an internal passive crossover network in a reflex-loaded enclosure. The rear panel connector plate carries 2x Neutrik speakON NL4 connectors for input and link connections to additional enclosures.

TQ12
The 2-way full range TQ12 is a processed passive 2,000-Watt 12-inch loudspeaker system ideally suited for a wide range of speech and music sound reinforcement applications. Engineered to work in conjunction with Lab Gruppen powered loudspeaker management systems, the TQ12 provides optimal performance for FOH, sidefill and delay line loudspeakers. The TQ12 loudspeaker features an 12-inch neodymium low frequency driver with a low mass voice coil for improved transient response, and a titanium dome 1.4-inch neodymium high frequency compression driver mounted onto an 80° horizontal by 30° vertical rotatable exponential horn paired with a dendritic plane wave transformer (DPWT) waveguide. All drivers are matched with an internal passive crossover network in a reflex-loaded enclosure. The rear panel connector plate carries 2x Neutrik speakON NL4 connectors for input and link connections to additional enclosures.

TQ15
The 2-way full range TQ15 is a processed passive 2,200-Watt 15-inch loudspeaker system ideally suited for a wide range of speech and music sound reinforcement applications. Engineered to work in conjunction with Lab Gruppen powered loudspeaker management systems, the TQ15 provides optimal performance for FOH, sidefill and delay line loudspeakers. The TQ15 loudspeaker features an 15-inch neodymium low frequency driver with a low mass voice coil for improved transient response, and a titanium dome 1.4-inch neodymium high frequency compression driver mounted onto an 80° horizontal by 30° vertical rotatable exponential horn paired with a dendritic plane wave transformer (DPWT) waveguide. All drivers are matched with an internal passive crossover network in a reflex-loaded enclosure.  The rear panel connector plate carries 2x Neutrik speakON NL4 connectors for input and link connections to additional enclosures.

Enclosure Design
The full range loudspeaker models are all finished in a highly durable semi-matte black paint, the cabinet is constructed from 15mm plywood — and includes a rugged powder-coated, cloth-wrapped, perforated steel mesh grille. Multiple threaded rigging points are provided for suspension in any orientation, or for mounting. Optional flying yoke, swivel brackets are available separately. The TQ also features a dual 35mm socket for standard pole mounting — plus integrated handle for convenient transport.

Custom-Engineered Drivers, Waveguides & Horns
Turbosound’s full range loudspeaker models use in-house designed drivers, waveguides, and horns — with the dendritic waveguide uni-phase response having been part of the company’s premium design approach for the last two decades. The TQ Series has a refined curved exit dendritic married to a new 80° x 30° rotatable horn for accurate dispersion though the entire bandwidth of the high frequency device.

Lab Gruppen PLM+
With the ever-increasing complexity of modern-day sound systems, seamless integration with the Lab Gruppen PLM+ is a prerequisite for the full range loudspeaker models of the TQ series. Turbosound’s engineers have prepared and meticulously designed a series of presets that will allow the user to achieve the maximum system performance and consistency possible. Future FIR capable platforms from Lab Gruppen will be supported.

BAND-PASS SUBWOOFERS
TQ15B
The TQ15B is a compact and passive single 15-inch 8,000 Watt (peak) subwoofer that is ideally suited for a broad range of speech and music sound reinforcement applications in both fixed, portable and touring audio systems.

TQ18B
The TQ18B is a compact passive single 18-inch 4,000 Watt (peak) subwoofer that is ideally suited for a broad range of speech and music sound reinforcement applications in both fixed, portable and touring audio systems.

Lab Gruppen & Lake DSP
Both the TQ15B, and TQ18B are designed to work in conjunction with Lake DSP and Lab Gruppen amplification, providing optimal FOH performance, as well as considerable flexibility to readily adapt to varying venue requirements. Multiple bass array configurations and all pre-sets are available to download.

Custom-Engineered Drivers
Turbosound is recognised the world over for designing and building some of the most iconic loudspeakers and subwoofers. We take meticulous care and pride in maintaining that reputation by utilising only drivers designed by ourselves or to our exacting standards.

Enclosure Design
The low distortion design utilised in the TQ15B and TQ18B reinforces the low frequency spectrum in program or live music, steep cut-off slopes and Large singular DLP Technology (Diverging Lens Port) ensure an effective acoustic transition for use with TQ series elements.

The TQ range also has a line of accessories that includes, brackets, yoke brackets, and weather-resistant protective bags.

dBTechnologies presents two new point-source models within the acclaimed Opera series, raising the bar and bringing a real revolution at a perfect time, 50 years from the foundation of the company. Introducing the all-new standard in professional portable sound, made in Italy: Opera Reevo.

Opera Reevo 210 and Opera Reevo 212 deliver an astonishing sound pressure level with touring-grade sound definition and a remarkable low-end extension in a compact and freshly designed enclosure accessible to anybody who wants great sound anywhere. The Quasi 3-way configuration delivers a vigorous yet pristine sound. This bold acoustic design is in-fact unparalleled in its category, inspired by dBTechnologies touring series, marks a clear step-up In the longest running and most appreciated dBTechnologies active speaker series of all times. 

Opera Reevo translates the mix in an impeccable way, adapting the speaker to complex musical material especially when rich in the midrange region, where separation and clarity can really make a difference in the outcome of any performance. This is granted by the coaxial acoustic design, featuring a front Integrated HF horn with diamond-shaped cutouts with the aim of rendering comb filtering-free high frequency reproduction, and at the same time of improving the upper woofer’s efficiency.

Another phase plug enhances the lower woofer efficiency: this acoustic device greatly improves the transient response and overall behaviour of this transducer. Low noise reflex ports are integrated in the front moulding. The honeycomb structure inside the ports helps reducing wind turbulence caused by the high airflow of this high SPL powerhouse. 

Both models are equipped with a Class-D Digipro G2 amplifier which delivers an impressive 1050W RMS and 2100W Peak power, and features advanced DSP processing where FIR linear phase filters allow the systems to achieve a coherent audio performance, rendering an uniform and crystal-clear sound. Moreover, Opera Reevo offers factory-tailored voicing presets to adapt to multiple scenarios, including when in need of a wedge stage monitor or a completely standalone full-range PA system.

This versatile sound processing works in tandem with a cleverly designed box shape which combines cutting-edge design and ease of use. Opera Reevo can be used as a wedge stage monitor or on a classic speaker stand support. When paired with a subwoofer can be mounted on a 36mm standard pole, and can be also suspended thanks to the integrated 3x M10 threaded eyebolts, making this enclosure a perfect permanent installation complement.

Both cabinets have a very compact size compared to the output SPL of 132.5dB (Reevo 210) and 133 dB (Reevo 212), yet featuring 2x Neodymium woofers (10-inch for Reevo 210 and 12-inch for Reevo 212) and one 1.75-inch coaxial compression driver, keeping the overall weight down to 17.2Kg (Reevo 210) and 20.4Kg (Reevo 212).

When it comes down to business, Opera Reevo outstanding voicing ensures seamless and transparent rendition of any speech, where intelligibility is mission critical (such as corporate events or houses of worship) with a very wide nominal dispersion: 100°x80° (Reevo 212) and 100°x90° (Reevo 210) granting greatly consistent coverage from every listening position.

Martin Audio has announced nine new products including the portable series, FlexPoint, in an online special event presentation that primarily targets the premier rental market. With state-of-the-art acoustic design and technical innovations throughout, the FlexPoint series sets a new benchmark in performance and versatility for compact, standalone loudspeakers.

FlexPoint systems deliver the very highest quality sound to match the expectations of prestige venues and top-flight touring artists, while their passive two-way configuration heeds the need to reduce running costs and amplifier count.

Comprising five models — all with highly flexible deployment — the FlexPoint series covers a vast range of professional applications. These range from live sound reinforcement, theatre sound, and corporate AV to distributed sound systems and immersive environments. From the miniature FP4 to the powerful FP15, FlexPoint loudspeakers are compact and discreet, and  provide ultimate clarity, detail, and coverage at all sound levels — and all without affecting sight lines or detracting from venue architecture.

Coaxial point source technology lies at the heart of FlexPoint systems, delivering smoother and more consistent response off-axis than traditional two-way systems. But Martin Audio has gone further with exemplary dispersion patterns by incorporating a two-stage waveguide within the magnet structure. This waveguide maintains wide constant horizontal coverage out to very high frequencies, while the perimeter of the cone acts as the horn mouth, enabling pattern control to a lower frequency. Drivers can also be rotated without the need for any tools increasing their deployment options and ease of use out on the road.

FlexPoint Systems can be used in conjunction with SX series subwoofers to extend low-frequency performance and impact, and it was this range that also saw two new additions announced. The SX115 is a single 15-inch subwoofer and the SX215 is a double 15-inch subwoofer — both models allowing for pole-mounting of a FlexPoint system. This now means that the SX series comprises a single and double 10-inch, 12-inch, 15-inch, and 18-inch — as well as a cardioid 15-inch and 18-inch, and the ultimate subwoofer performance of the Hybrid horn/reflex loaded SXH218.

Finally, in keeping with the name, FlexPoint systems support a flexible electronics package, and for the optimum sound performance, Martin Audio iKON amplifiers with onboard DSP are recommended. Primarily for larger installations however, Martin Audio VIA amplifiers, in conjunction with a DX4.0 system controller, are compatible. For smaller installations utilising FP4, FP6, and FP8, a combination of VIA amplifiers and the newly announced DX0.4 or DX0.6 controller are a cost-effective option. The DX0.4 is a 2-input, 4-output controller, while the DX0.6 is 2-input, 6-output.

Dom Harter, managing director, summed up by saying, “Alongside Wavefront Precision optimised line arrays and TORUS constant curvature arrays, the exciting FlexPoint series completes a trio of premium loudspeaker categories, our finest live sound offering in the company’s history, delivering the Martin Audio signature sound experience for everything from an intimate gig to the largest of festivals. The addition of the two new SX subwoofers also completes a full complement of low-end solutions, while the two new controllers provide additional flexibility and cost efficiency when required.”

All nine products will start shipping no later than June, but some products will be available earlier.