We have a fantastic stage at Thames Side Brewery, which is approximately 5mtrs wide, and 3mtrs deep, and about 150mm high. This makes a great performance space for bands. Due to the ceiling hung speakers, the stage is clear of speakers, providing more space for bands, and, clearer views for our customers.
Venue Audio System
The venue has a newly installed PA and mixer, that can be used by all bands.
Speakers : 2off hung speakers (Yamaha DZR15 Powered PA Speakers 2000Watt, 15″ LF Driver)
Monitors : 3off floor speakers (Yamaha DHR12M Active Speaker)
Mixing Desk : 20 Channel (Yamaha MG20XU (3rd Gen), With SPX effects and Stereo USB Interface)
Microphones : 3off SM58 Wired Microphones, with cables and stands
Microphones : 1off Shure SM58 Wireless Microphone, with stand
Cables : A range of 2mtr to 10mtr (approx. 12 in total), XLR to XLR.
Direct Input
The PA system has been configured with a direct input (2off XLR inputs) that bypasses the venue mixing desk. This enables a band to bring their own mixing desk solution if they prefer. Under this configuration, the venue monitor speakers will not function.
Venue Mixing Desk
The Yamaha mixing desk is an advance analogue desk. It is in a cabinet that can be set facing the stage (so a band member can adjust), or facing away from the stage (so a technician can adjust). Whilst it can rotate, it can not be moved from its location.
It was a wide range of inputs available, including 12 channels with XLR and 1/4 mono inputs, and 4 Stereo channels with XLR, 1/4 and Phono inputs.
The Yamaha mixing desk has all of the standard features of an analogue mixing desk.
We do not have any DI boxes, so if you need these, please bring them with you.
Monitor Speakers
These are connected to the venue mixing desk, to Aux channels 1, 2 and 3.
Monitor 1 (Aux 1) is pre-fade only
Monitor 2 (Aux 2) is set to pre-fade (but has a button to change to post-fade)
Monitor 3 (Aux 3) is post-fade only
When I took the pictures, it was a brewing day, so there were barrels and other items on the stage. I will try and get some without these!
Volume Control
We all want the band to sound amazing, which is why we have invested in a fantastic PA system. However, we also have to be aware of our staff, customers and neighbours.
The venue has a large display sound level indicator (easily visible from the stage), which needs to be kept below 105db.
The venue Bar Manager has the final say on volume, and can remotely turn down the PA volume, if it is deemed to be too loud.
Bands that try and flout the sound level, and/or do not adhere to the Bar Manager’s instructions, will not be invited to return.
Loading / Unloading / Parking.
We have a rear service yard (go round and behind the Travel Lodge). Whilst vehicles can unload and load from here, only a maximum of ONE vehicle can be left here (up to 3.5T). Under no circumstances are you to block in any other vehicles (otherwise your set may be interrupted to let them out). The yellow hatch area must be kept completely clear (and please allow an additional 1mtr of clearance).
There is parking in the general two rivers parking just in front of the venue (Free after 6pm, and just £2 all day Sunday).
From the service yard, it is a flat entrance through wide opening double doors. The edge of the stage is a maximum of 10mtrs from the service yard. You almost could not have easier loading / unloading.
The yellow hatched area inside the doors must also be kept clear (with no cables or any trip hazords).
Please note : The double doors used for loading, are also the venue Fire Exit route, and therefore can NOT be blocked under any circumstances.
Stage Power
We have a number of power circuits for the stage. All are protected by RCD cut off’s, and isolators are fitted to the side of the stage.
Main Stage – 32A. This provides 8off 13amp sockets across the back of the stage, plus 4off 13amp sockets down the left and right sides, plus 8off 13amp sockets across the front. All of the sockets on the side and front of the stage are mounted upside down, which makes plugging things in easier for stage use. With 24 sockets around the stage, you really shouldn’t have a problem plugging in!
Venue Audio – 32A. This provides power to the venue in-house audio equipment (and the circuit is not available for other use).
Venue Lighting – 20A. This provides power to the high level stage lights (and the circuit is not available for other use).
Stage Lighting
The stage is washed with 4 LED lights (LEDJ Q Colour RGBW – 18x8W). These are mounted high up, about 5mtrs in front of the stage to try and avoid eye glare. The colour and brightness level are controlled by a panel by the bar.
Above the stage, and aimed onto the dancing area, are 4 LED Colour bars (can be seen in some of the pictures). These provide lighting for the dance area, and are on a random sound to light pattern.