New York, NY (August 14, 2015)—Bringing together the combined strength of two sound companies known around the world, Sound Image in the US and SSE Audio Group in the UK have joined forces for a new venture—United Audio Companies—which will allow each company to provide mirrored, seamless international support for clients on both sides of the Atlantic.
Dave Shadoan, president of Sound Image (Escondido, CA) noted, “Sound Image and SSE have very similar company philosophies. We both continue to invest heavily in today’s leading technology and we both put a heavy focus on our personnel and service; that is what sets us apart.”
Each of the partnering companies has introduced common technologies so touring acts will have a simple transition when they travel between the continents. All productions will have additional local contacts assigned to assist planning and coordination and reduce downtime.
“It’s not just a US Company operating via an EU satellite office or vice versa in the US,” explained Redditch, UK-based SSE Audio Group MD John Penn, “It’s two full-service, national PA companies with a full complement of staff, service facilities, vehicles, production managers and their long-developed support networks that are made available to the touring production—in addition to the equipment inventory and crew. It means that when a tour hits a snag, SSE in Europe or Sound Image in the States are far more likely to resolve the issue quickly.”
Neil Diamond’s current world tour is the first to officially use UAC, although both companies have been testing the waters over the last year with acts like Linkin Park, Tame Impala, Culture Club, Pharrell Williams, Rob Zombie, Five Finger Death Punch, Maroon 5 and Billy Idol.
As part of the move towards common technologies, SSE Hire has purchased a JBL VTX system, which was deployed on the European leg of Diamond’s world tour, following his North American outing in April and May with Sound Image. SSE’s new acquisition of JBL, together with the extensive L-Acoustics inventory in stock on both continents, means clients have full access to either system. Other systems supported within the group include Adamson, EAW, d&b audiotechnik and Meyer Sound Labs.
United Audio Companies • www.uac.global
Sound Image • www.sound-image.com
SSE Audio • www.sseaudiogroup.com
