PK Sound's robotic line source technology delivered precisely tailored coverage for the global premiere of Outlander in Concert: Echoes Through the Highlands at Edinburgh's iconic Usher Hall.

A T8 compact robotic line source system deployed by audio specialists Sonalyst was mechanically optimized to precisely cover the venue's renowned architecture, ensuring the entire audience experienced every nuance of the orchestral performance with exceptional clarity, consistency, and impact.

Presented by Sony Pictures Entertainment, Amsterdam-based GEA Live, and RoadCo, Outlander in Concert: Echoes Through the Highlands brings the television series’ acclaimed score by Grammy-winning composer Bear McCreary to life through a live orchestra synchronized with scenes from the show. The world premiere featured appearances by several leading cast members, creating a memorable occasion for devoted fans gathered in the Scottish capital.

"This was our first deployment of a PK Sound robotic system and the experience exceeded our expectations in every respect," comments Rory Madden, Managing Director at Sonalyst. "The T8 system made setup and optimization incredibly efficient, which freed up valuable time for our team to focus on refining the overall production. Being able to mechanically shape coverage to the unique architecture of Usher Hall was a tremendous advantage, and the fidelity was particularly impressive. Every detail of the orchestra, featured soloists, and performers translated beautifully throughout the venue."

The PK Sound solution, designed with support from Clarity.live and PK Sound’s U.K. office, comprised main flown arrays of 12 T8 robotic modules per side to cover the balconies and columns of four T8 modules mounted on the left and right sides of the stage to ensure complete coverage of the main level. Three Tx26 intelligent point source modules lined the lip of the stage as discrete front fills while a pair of Tx14 modules were flown to the far left and right of the house to cover the outside sections of the upper balcony.

PK Sound's patented multi-axis robotic technology is uniquely suited to orchestral and theatrical productions where consistency and intelligibility are paramount. By enabling precise mechanical adjustment of both vertical and horizontal dispersion, the system allows engineers to direct acoustic energy exactly where it is needed while minimizing unwanted reflections and ensuring uniform coverage throughout complex performance spaces. The result is enhanced clarity, improved tonal consistency, and a superior listening experience for every audience member.

"As someone who regularly mixes on PK Sound systems, I knew it would be the ideal solution for this production," says Erik Bik, FOH engineer for Outlander in Concert and a Co-Founder of Clarity.live. "Our company owns PK Sound inventory, so I've experienced firsthand what the technology can achieve. The way the mix translated throughout Usher Hall was exceptional. Every element remained detailed and intelligible regardless of seat location, and the system delivered the transparency and musicality needed to faithfully reproduce both the orchestra and featured vocal and instrumental performances."

To further refine the listening experience, Bik and the Sonalyst team leveraged PK Sound's proprietary .dynamics software platform and MOVE mobile application throughout the production process. The tools enabled rapid system optimization and verification, ensuring consistent coverage and tonal balance throughout every seat of the venue while streamlining workflow for the technical team.

Based in South Wales, Sonalyst provides comprehensive audio, lighting, video, and production services for a diverse range of live events, touring productions, corporate engagements, and special events. The company has earned a reputation for delivering high-quality technical solutions and experienced production support for clients across the entertainment industry.

"The response to the audio was overwhelmingly positive from everyone involved with the production," comments Alex Rijkschroeff, Senior Associate Producer with GEA Live. "The PK Sound system absolutely blew us away. It delivered the level of detail, consistency, and emotional impact that audiences expect from our productions, helping create an experience worthy of both the Outlander brand and the remarkable venue hosting this world premiere."

 

TOP IMAGES: PK Sound’s T8 robotic line source system with coverage precisely tailored to the architecture of Edinburgh’s Usher Hall for Outlander in Concert: Echoes Through the Highlands

BOTTOM IMAGE: PK Sound’s Tx26 intelligent point source modules provide front fill for Outlander in Concert: Echoes Through the Highlands at Edinburgh’s Usher Hall