Sports & Esports

Creating an Electric Atmosphere

The BLAST R6 Major Manchester 2024 required a comprehensive technical setup to meet the demands of a large-scale Esports tournament. The production integrated audio, video, and lighting systems to serve the live audience with the broadcast elements for online viewers (on Twitch and YouTube platforms) handled via separate contractors. Key components included high-resolution LED screens, various lighting fixtures, and a custom-designed sound system. These elements needed to work in unison to display gameplay, capture audience reactions, and broadcast clear commentary. All content was provided separately and fed to screens via BLAST production.

The lighting setup, as specified by Lighting Designer Kasper Lange, featured a dynamic mix of fixtures, including Robe MegaPointe, Martin MAC Aura XB, Martin MAC Ultra, and Ayrton Diablo. These created a vibrant atmosphere for both the stage design and the audience. A grandMA3 full-size lighting console with associated control, ensured seamless transitions and captivating visuals throughout the event, particularly during key moments such as team presentations, before and after matches, or opening and closing ceremonies.

The video setup centred around 300 square meters of high-resolution ROE Visual BQ4 screens, serving as the event's visual focal point. Complementing these, ROE BPV2 screens were deployed for additional IMAG and player booth displays.  

The team employed advanced Helios 8K processing and BARCO E2 screen management systems to ensure crisp visuals and seamless content management. This comprehensive display network significantly enhanced the tournament's visual appeal for both in-arena spectators and broadcast viewers.  

Prism contributed to the overall structure by providing a ground support solution for the flown elements above the stage, ensuring a safe and stable setup for the impressive array of screens.

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Sound Designer Malte Oscar optimised audio system to the venue's unique characteristics. His meticulous Soundvision design resulted in the deployment of an L-Acoustics Loudspeaker System, which included:

• 37 KARA II and 9 KIVA II boxes split into 9 hangs
• 12 L-Acoustics X8s for front fill
• 4 KS28 subwoofers

This setup ensured even coverage and a great audio experience for all attendees. The use of Audio Video Bridging (AVB) technology via L-Acoustics P1 Processor facilitated seamless audio distribution, enhancing the overall production quality.

The Adlib team deployed a specified DiGiCo SD7 for audio control, complete with an SD Rack and Waves system. This included Duggan Speech, for handling the multitude of mics, making it perfect for this live-streamed broadcast scenario where presenters and commentators were talking over the action.

By combining technical expertise with the latest event technology solutions, the collaboration between Adlib, Prism, and the talented professionals behind the scenes brought the BLAST R6 tournament to life, setting the stage for an unforgettable Esports experience for Rainbow Six fans.

Adlib's Senior Account Manager, Dave Eldridge, commented: “We were delighted to support the latest BLAST R6 Major in Manchester. Congratulations to all the winners, and a big thank you to all the talented professionals at BLAST for having us on board. Best of luck to everyone at the next Major.”