Michel Wilson, Production Manager, FOH Engineer for Kitaro, Vusi Mahlasela, ALO:
This is Michael's first impressions using the KickPort on a live show (1000 to 2000 seat venue) with a backline kit.
1. What makes you want to use the KickPort?
"I felt the overall sound was more coherent, locking in very quick with the mix. I really liked the tight low end response, and overall evenness. I can manipulate with EQ to get any sound I am after."
2. Did the KickPort change the way you approach your mix - are you cutting and boosting different frequencies?
"In the case of the drum I was using, I did nothing different than I usually do. I generally dip in the low mid around 350, and when called for, a little boost around 4k for click. I was using a Beta 52, which dictated where (and how deep inside) I was able to position the mic. I did not touch the lower frequencies, as I felt they were spot on. I did adjust highs for more click, but that seemed to be a room and/or the backline kick drum set up issue. As for the mix...the KickPort fit in very well, defined itself and the rest of the kit beautifully. We use a keyboard bass, and it was an excellent compliment."
3. Any gating and/or compression ratios changed?
"I did not use a gate. With respect to compression, I just touched it "for taste."
4. Any other issues that you have to deal with when you add the KickPort into the kick drum?
"None, it fit very well right into the mix!"
Joel Jaffe, Engineer, Producer - Studio D, Sausalito, CA:
"Take one KickPort, one kick drum, and mix the ingredients… and WOW… you get the kick drum sound you've always dreamed about! I really could not believe the difference adding the KickPort to Billy [“Shoes”] Johnson’s drum. The top and bottom was extremely well focused in a way that you can only hope for when recording a kick drum. I actually believe it is better than most samples out there. Essentially, we all love big bottom in a kick drum sound and the KickPort really adds that bottom!!! Additionally, when you are working in rooms that just don't sound right, this device will give you everything you want.
Doane Perry, Jethro Tull, Ian Anderson:
" Our Front of House Engineer loves the KickPort. He said it worked great in all the venues we played on our Jethro Tull European Tour Summer ‘09."
Jimi Kane, Krista (on tour with Kelly Clarkson Summer ‘09).
"The Front of House Engineer thinks my kick drum sound is much better with the KickPort. He is a huge fan!"