Having chosen a Soundcraft Si Performer 2 console to tour Scotland and England, alt indie rock band Wolf Alice report better efficiency, workflow and sound with the latest v1.6 software.

The 24-channel Si Performer 2 came with a Mini Stagebox, offering an additional 32 channels as well as a Cat5 Dual Madi card for connection. An Si Dante card was also purchased for multitrack recording, allowing the band to review its own performances between shows.

‘We wanted a console with onboard reverb and effects, to eliminate a lot of the outboard gear when traveling between tour destinations,’ says FOH and monitor engineer, Andy Robinson. ‘The Si Performer really shines when its recallable functions allow house engineers to recall features and settings for their specific needs. In fact, this is the best console to leave other engineers with, as it only takes them five minutes to learn how to use it for mixing a live show. The design is so simple yet effective.

‘The new pre-dynamic send pick offs allow me to compress the vocals in FOH heavier. The FOH experience has been transformed, now that I can do monitors and compressors on one channel,’ he adds.

The UK-based band’s aim is to replicate the sound recordings live, while adding effects for the drums and vocals. Due to the space constrictions at some of the venues, a console with a small form factor that could be easily operated on the fly was essential. Additionally, it had to be capable of handling at least 19 channels for the four vocals, two guitars and one bass guitar. The Si Performer offers it all, in an intuitive design, decreasing time needed for patching, line checks and tweaking.

‘I love how great it sounds, especially when compared to other desks,’ Robinson says. ‘I can really hear the compressors working, and they do exactly what I want them to do. Also, the EQ is responsive; I can hear even the slightest 3dB adjustments, giving me more control. The entire system can be tweaked offstage with the iPad app. None of the other consoles in the market can compete at this size.’