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In response to trying to better meet my own needs and responding to the requests of others, in 2008 I decided to design a new system from scratch using the best possible components worldwide.
Nick has built PA’s into suitcases, coffins, wardrobes, prams, Ghetto Blasters etc etc. The normal criteria you are fighting against with street theatre are size, weight, power, battery life and cost. With a mains powered PA system life is easy – you can throw as much electricity at the thing as you want, and get a good result fairly easily with off the shelf components. With portable equipment life is very different as power and quality come from a fine balance between batteries, speakers and amplifiers, all of which need to be finely matched for optimum performance. The Usual RecipeBatteries – 1. Lithium ion (Li-ion) batteries offer about 4 or 5 times the power to weight ratio of sealed lead acid (SLA) ones, and are generally OK to take on aircraft – SLA batteries are generally not OK (check with the CAA). 2. Nickle Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries have a lower power to weight ratio than Li-ion but higher than SLA, can have high discharge rates, are relatively cheap and can be taken on aircraft – which make them a good compromise solution for many applications. Amplifiers – getting the most out of an amplifier at low voltage is an art in itself. Conventional ‘A/B amplifiers’ used in most equipment are OK, but a lot of energy goes to making heat and not sound – about 50%. ‘Class T’ amplifiers are about 90% efficient which means more sound for less power – great news for small systems. The outputs are also identically in phase so they can be paralleled with low resistance speakers to get even more output. Speakers – an amplifier is only as good as the speakers it runs. For the highest volume you need the most sensitive speakers – essentially you want the signal sent to them dealt with as efficiently as possible to get the biggest response possible from them. Speakers vary enormously in resistance, frequency response, power handling, sensitivity, resonant frequency, size, weight etc etc. If you would like a custom portable PA building, or if you have existing equipment that you would like customising or repairing, then get in touch with Nick at the postbox below. Testimonials"I started to play the Stuff and Things system in the Belfast Circus School and was besieged by street performers interested in how such a great sound could come from such a small system. Extensive testing over the next two days only served to reinforce their interest. I have never seen such enthusiasm for a sound system in twenty years in the business. This system is going to be the standard for the Festival of Fools – easy to transport, easy to operate and fantastic sound." Will Chamberlain, Director, Festival of Fools "Hi Nick, I picked up the parcel this morning and we have heard the glory that is the stuffed thing! Great..... The quality is very crisp and clear." Sue Auty, Whalley Range All Stars "I just wanted to say how delighted I am so far with your sound system, it's so easy to get a great sound that's loud enough for all the outdoor gigs I've played. Every performer who has heard it has asked me where I got it, I hope you do well mate, they're great." Fraser Hooper "The volume was truly miraculous – particularly for such little boxes! So yes I am very happy with the system and reckon it’s definitely worth the money. I have put together all sorts of sound systems over the years, for my different acts and walkabouts, using off the shelf units so I know something about the problems and limitations of portable gear and can appreciate what you’ve achieved with this set up." Bernie Bennett "It sounds wonderful. We tried it out at the weekend, V loud and great quality." Mandy, Grand Theatre of Lemmings "Just wanted to say thank you so much, when the Stuffed Thing arrived I was very sceptical that it could produce the volume I needed to be heard over generators, traffic, fair grounds, drunks etc. After the first show I was a convert! I have tried many of the battery amps on the market and they do not come close to the volume and clarity of this little wonder! Also would like to thank you for your help and advice too, I will happily recommend your work to anyone!" Stuart Terry, Astral Circus "Thanks so much for your brilliant after care service and also creating such brilliant kit - Your sound systems are so vital to the grannies." Martin, Larkin' About "The pa just landed and it's all working perfectly. Thanks again for the quick time you had it out to me and for your great work. I turned it on and like all your other clients, couldn't believe the poke out of the little thing. The dog wasn't so impressed, which says a lot, as he's well used to loud music!" Fanzini Brothers "It all arrived in perfect condition and as long, as i can tell it´s extremely amazing!! ….Can´t wait to use it at my next job at the weekend." Abraham Thill "All working lovely. The batteries seem to have an endless supply of life!" Andrew Kenny, Fair Play "PA is kicking up a beauty." Jon Hicks "Just wanted to let you know I got the speakers. They worked brilliantly for our mask show at festivals in Belgium!" Seth Bloom "We had a rehearsal today and had the chance to listen to our stuffed thing is full swing, we are very very impressed its exactly what we need, so thanks again!" Matt Pang, Pangotic |
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 Click thumbnail to view full size image Bespoke casing is available from Matt Nunn - Artisan, creator of fine models, props and themeing. They can provide, to your specification solid casing for Stuffed and Thing. Whether you require a retro look, contemporary or something out of the ordinary, they can make it! |
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