Howdy Folks,
We were allowed to take possession for demo purposes of the Phoenix rigs EV took to SXSW. We had 4 of the subs, 4 of the double 12s and 2 of double 15s.
Now, I've got to say that we have been running a 24-box MT2 rig for years and I never thought I'd hear another box I liked better than my MT2s.
The first show we were able to do with them was a smaller 1 stack/side rig of the double 15s. John was out on another show and didn't get to hear them. At the end of my show, I called him up and told him "John, EV's not getting these boxes back!"
I was overwhelmed with the clarity of the boxes in all parts of the venue (outdoor, covered pavillion), a space that has traditionally been difficult to obtain clean sound at a reasonable volume. Both the subs and mid-his were so amazingly clean.
Then we took the 2-12 boxes out for a bigger show and were just awestruck. First, the engineering of the boxes is amazing. The MT2 subs weight 180 pounds and the MT2 mid-his are 205. The Phoenix subs are about the same weight but the mid-his are, what, 78 pounds? And even though the subs are the same weight, they feel like half that. I can handle them by myself, which is saying a lot. We're both getting older and weight is becoming an issue!
The 2 stack/side double 12 rig is absolutely flawless. There were a few problems with the highs early on but EV has issued two updates to the DX38 settings since then and that completely fixed the problem.
We also bought the CP4000 amps to run this rig. Oh, did I mention we bought both systems? The CP4000 is equivalent to a MacroTech 3600 but we both agree that it is a cleaner amp. We really like the smooth, rich sound. AND it weights something like 17 pounds. (I'm not good at remembering exact numbers.)
We are just in heaven with our new systems. And if you know anyone who wants to buy some MT2s, maybe for club install where you don't have to move them, ours are for sale. I can't believe I'm saying that...that's how good the Phoenix are!
Teri Hogan
Sound Services, Inc.