Johannesburg-based MJ Event gear recently increased the size of their arsenal of audio systems with the addition of a d&b audiotechnik J-series line array system. Gear purchased from d&b distributors Stage Audio Works included 16 J8 mid/high cabinets, 12 J-Subs, four flying frames and twelve D80 amplifiers.

“We have always loved the product and it has done well for us over the years’, says Mike Jones, managing director of MJ Event Gear, on the motivation behind the purchase. “In 2010 we bought a full Q-series flown PA system for the World Cup to add to our existing d&b rig. There is also a full 5 year warranty on all kit which no other manufacturer offers although I don’t think we have ever had to have anything of value fixed other than handles, covers cases, etc., from travel. d&b is also very rider driven and is nearly always on the list of preferred PA Systems worldwide. It also sounds great and is very user friendly to work with.’

Jones also feels that the system is a very worthwhile investment due to it being a “very respected brand worldwide’.

The debut event for the J-series system was Eminem in Cape Town on Wednesday, 26 February, 2014. When asked about his expectations for the system at the show, Jones said, “Firstly, I would just like to thank Gearhouse for the opportunity to assist them on this exciting gig. Sound checks were great. I flew down to Cape Town for the gig there on Wednesday and it sounded awesome. We always want more boxes as stadiums are tricky for anyone or any PA. The Eminem gig was a Gearhouse event and they asked us to find all the PA around the country from our d&b network of companies and make it happen. Between Otto (MJ Eventgears sound manager), the guys from Blue Array productions, Gearhouse, 8th Day Sound in the States and Stage Audio Works we compiled a gear list and everyone was happy. All the guys came together, some of us making purchases and getting kit from all over to make up 64 x J8, 8 x J12, 26 x J-Sub, 4 x J-Infra subs, 52 x B2 subs, 56 x V’s, 32 x Q1s, 12 x Q10 and a lot of D12 and D80 amps all networked, with a bit of cabling. All monitoring was also d&b.’

Mike Jones is clearly an avid d&b supporter and plans on expanding his d&b stock further in the future to further support the d&b network in South Africa.

By Greg Bester