TMP Pibrac Theatre Invests in new Harman Soundcraft Vi1 Console

Built in 1989, the Théâtre Musical de Pibrac (TMP) is a popular concert and music-based theatre, situated 10 minutes from the center of Toulouse, in France. With an amphitheatre-style main auditorium, seating 448 (750 standing) it also has a separate lobby, exhibition area, café theatre, rehearsal, and reception areas. The theatre receives incoming shows as well as producing its own, with resident company, Figaro & Co.

TMP recently decided to overhaul its distribution network and at the same time upgrade its Harman Soundcraft analog desk to digital, which would be placed on its new Riedel RockNet backbone.

"We needed a desk both to run our own shows and for the incoming productions -- and therefore it needed to be one that would be familiar to the bulk of technicians," said theatre director, Stéphane Novak. "In particular we were looking for a compact desk, with good de-esser and compatibility with the RockNet card for the stage preamp."

Before making their choice, three of the theatre's technical team reviewed several of the market leaders, but following a demonstration, placed their order for a Soundcraft Vi1 with local dealers, Spotco. This was delivered in January this year, accompanied by after-sales training from the supplier -- and pressed straight into service.

The Vi1 is the smallest sibling of Soundcraft's popular Vi digital range, which began with the Vi6. This takes the platform to a more affordable level with a reduced footprint that retains the acclaimed Vistonics user interface and signature Vi sound quality, the company says. The Vi1 represents a complete standalone console package with 32 channels of analog input (64 channels to mix when attached to stagebox) to 27 analog outputs, plus six digital inputs, four stereo FX returns, and six digital outputs in one chassis.

"We are satisfied that we made the correct purchase," Novak said. "We particularly like the quality of the EQ, the onboard dynamics and the routing."

Pibrac itself may only have a population of 8,500 but they can be proud that the local community has invested in a facility that is so highly appreciated.