Jann Arden
Multi-Platinum artist Jann Arden is currently touring with her band in support of her eighth studio release, Free. Vancouver-based Gearforce—which specializes in high-end concert rental systems—is providing the tour with a complete package that includes an L-Acoustics KUDO large-format line source P.A. system (handled by Terry Hilton, P.A. tech) and the new Sennheiser ew 300 IEM G3 wireless personal monitoring system.
“We were holding off on making our next big RF purchase to see where the state-of-the-art was headed,” says Gearforce president Robert Nevalainen. “Then we received a demo of the new Sennheiser G3 system last summer. We were really impressed. The integrated performance of the G3 system is excellent.”
Monitor engineer Deb Hutchins also handles RF and production duties.
Handling FOH duties is Gary Stokes (Sarah McLachlan’s longtime engineer), while Deb Hutchins manages monitor duties, as well as RF tech and production management. Hutchins requested 10 of the ew 300 IEM G3 systems, saying, “I’m impressed with the sound quality, and the advanced features are making my extensive list of responsibilities a little bit easier to manage. The RF scanning features are intuitive and easy to use, and with the RF output level control right on the transmitters, we’ve been able to tailor the system to the varying needs of the individual musicians. Having a limiter control right on the beltpack gives them necessary control over their own level and dynamics.” Hutchins uses the integrated Ethernet connections on the transmitters and a laptop running Senn- heiser’s Wireless Systems Manager software to provide instant overview and control of the entire system.
Arden sings through a Neumann KMS 140 condenser vocal microphone. “It’s a very live-sounding mic,” Hutchins continues. “Jann has such a unique and practiced voice. She plays with her proximity effect and her mic technique—it’s all part of her sound. The crispness on the top end is so clear, you can hear every breath, every inflection and every intonation. That clarity is critical because her fans hang on Jann’s every note.”
