Electro-Voice

• Full-service Montreal-area production company invests in X-Line Advance line-array loudspeaker system to meet demand for larger regional events
• X2-212 full-range elements with X12-128 subwoofers from Electro-Voice offer tour-grade performance and time-saving technology
• Sound quality, scalability and overall value cited as key reasons for purchase

 Located in Blainville on Montreal’s north shore, Le Groupe Nord Scène provides multimedia production solutions to events and festivals from Ottawa to the Gaspésie region. The firm recently purchased an X-Line Advance line-array loudspeaker system from Electro-Voice to cater to larger events. According to Gilles Dion and Étienne Laroche, who manage administration and projects for the company, the decision to expand their sound rental inventory was based on two key factors: customer demand and long-term business growth.

“Our business model relies on sound rental for about 70 percent of company revenue, and most of the growth is in larger regional events,” explains Gilles Dion. “Ours is a competitive market, so it is important to have equipment that is up to date. We knew that a modern line-array system was needed so that we could compete effectively for events that require tour quality equipment.”

According to Dion, Group Nord Scène looked carefully at the marketplace to find a solution to provide the sound quality, scalability and efficient setup they needed, and all at a price point that made sense as a long-term investment. “We knew from experience that Electro-Voice offers excellent reliability and value,” says Dion. “The new technology, sound quality and construction of the X2 system were exactly what we needed to meet our goals for growth.” The X2 has an extremely efficient and compact 12” two-way design, yet offers a level of performance typically found in far larger – and significantly more expensive – three-way systems.

Group Nord Scène took delivery of 12 X2-212 line-array loudspeakers from Electro-Voice, split between eight with 90-degree dispersion and four 120-degree models, and immediately put the system into service during the busy summer season. Their line arrays are supported by six X12-128 subwoofers, featuring dual 18-inch drivers for exceptionally powerful low-frequency extension. System power is provided by 10 Electro-Voice TG7 amplifiers, each outfitted with an RCM-28 module for remote-control digital signal processing and system supervision via IRIS-Net software.

Having used the X-Line Advance for over a dozen events since its purchase, Gilles Dion reports being very happy with the purchase. “Actually, there are two areas of satisfaction to report,” he says. “All our customers are very happy with the system – we always see a very big smile when they hear it. The second area of satisfaction is from the Groupe Nord Scène team. We are 100 percent satisfied with our investment in Electro-Voice. Maybe 101 percent!” Group Nord Scène is planning to further expand their Electro-Voice inventory in 2017.