d&b makes sure the sound never breaks first on Tate McRae’s tour

d&b makes sure the sound never breaks first on Tate McRae's tour. Image: d&b audiotechnik

d&b audiotechnik’s SL-Series delivers precise directivity for Tate McRae’s Miss Possessive Tour, tackling complex staging and social media demands

Tate McRae’s Miss Possessive arena tour is currently travelling across South America, Europe and North America. Sound engineer Curtis McKenna, who has worked closely with the singer in the past, chose an SL-Series sound system from d&b audiotechnik for this tour. Supplied by 22live, the GSL, KSL and XSL-based setup was designed to handle demanding production requirements.

From the outset, it was clear that the staging would be unconventional. “Tate, like most singers, doesn’t like singing in front of a PA,” said McKenna. The unique design meant that sound had to be kept off the performance area, while allowing the surrounding audience to hear. Ultimately, precise directivity control has been key.

The main PA uses eight hangs of d&b SL-Series. GSL arrays are used on either side of the thrust, supported by subwoofers below. KSL side-hangs and XSL speakers arranged around the stage complement this setup. Smaller KSL modules are used to better control sound spill onto the thrust area.

To keep sound off the main stage and thrust, the GSL speakers are pointed toward the B-stage, which has created a new issue. To fix this, d&b R1 Remote control software has been used to mute individual speakers.

Another challenge of the tour has come from the way fans experience the show beyond the venue. With smartphone recordings of each show going viral on the internet, McKenna must ensure a crisp replay with the d&b system. By adding outboard saturation on the vocal channel, the loudness of the audience can be reduced.

It was clear that the staging would be anything but conventional. Image: d&b audiotechnik

Whether it’s navigating unconventional stage designs or fine-tuning viral clips, the d&b system proves itself night after night. The same focus on clarity and control can also be found at Dublin’s Guinness Storehouse, where d&b enhances a range of live music spaces.

Find out more about d&b audiotechnik at dbaudio.com