By Kasturi Datta |
Singapore-based AV Productions, which specialises in concert productions and festivals, is using Sennheiser’s new wireless bidirectional system, Spectera, to streamline radio frequency (RF) coordination and maintain audio quality during live performances.
Sennheiser designed Spectera to address the increasing challenges of relying on analogue in-ear-monitor (IEM) systems at music venues.
“Our stages can be over 120 metres wide with central catwalks,” said Favian Ngan, founder of AV Productions and touring monitor engineer. “With analogue systems, there is no perfect antenna position, and you are always compromising.”
AVP’s first deployment of the system took place at a 80,000-seat stadium and where consistent RF performance was essential. Spectera’s multi-antenna capability allowed for up to four antennas to operate simultaneously and ensured consistent RF performance as they could be placed strategically around the stage.
Powered by wireless multichannel audio system (WMAS) technology, Spectera also supports the operation of multiple transceivers in a single wideband RF channel and delivers a reliable solution for transmission without compromising performance. Additionally, the system only requires a bandwidth of six megahertz to operate.
“With analogue systems, if something goes wrong on stage, you are guessing and troubleshooting endlessly and there is no easy way to deduce whether it is the battery, the pack or just RF interference,” said Favian.
Spectera’s bodypacks provide real-time feedback which has helped streamline troubleshooting by eliminating guesswork for monitor engineers like Favian. Feedback includes battery status, RF levels and connection status
The shift from analogue to digital systems significantly reduced distortions and restored a natural and open-sound quality to vocal-led performances. Spectera’s low IEM latency of 0.7 milliseconds helps achieve this clarity.
“This latency is vital for vocalists as it helps minimise bone-conduction interference and reduces the risk of comb filtering effects,” said Favian.
Spectera is an internet-protocol based system and offers engineers monitors full control through web user interface, regardless of how far they may be from the stage during live performances.
“When you compare Spectera side by side with other systems, you can clearly hear the difference, but beyond sound quality, it is the control, RF stability and confidence it gives you during a show,” said Favian.