Revolutionising Live Performance Monitoring with Shure Axient® Digital PSM at the Schools Spectacular

Customer Profile

The Schools Spectacular, a world-class arena production showcasing the talents of over 5,000 students from NSW Public Schools, is renowned for its cutting-edge artistry. In 2024, the event explored themes of unity, connection, and teamwork. The event’s 2024 production marked a significant technological leap with the debut of Shure Axient® Digital PSM Advanced Digital In-ear Monitor System (Axient Digital PSM) in Australia. This innovation was made possible through the collaboration of Jands Pty Ltd and Profiles RF Management Pty Ltd, under the leadership of Peter Twartz. Together, they introduced the latest in wireless audio technology to enhance the clarity and consistency of in-ear monitoring for show hosts.

Schools Spectacular
Since 1984, the Schools Spectacular has been a hallmark of artistic excellence and cultural inclusivity, showcasing diverse student talent from across NSW. Held annually at Qudos Bank Arena, the event features thousands of performers, cutting-edge production elements, and a televised broadcast.

Profiles RF Management
Led by Peter Twartz, Profiles RF Management specialises in wireless spectrum planning and management for live events and broadcasts. Their expertise in cutting-edge wireless solutions played a crucial role in the successful deployment of Shure’s ADPSM at Schools Spectacular 2024.

Challenge

The Schools Spectacular required a robust monitoring solution that could overcome the limitations of traditional analogue systems. Key challenges included:

• Requirement for remote configuration and monitoring of multiple in-ear monitors
• Limited availability of WMAS-enabled systems that are capable of delivering the required spectral efficiency and spatial diversity
• Demand for high-performance in-ear monitors with superior audio clarity, reliability and minimal latency performance for live production hosts

Solution

Shure Axient Digital PSM was selected for its groundbreaking WMAS-enabled (Wireless Multichannel Audio System) technology, ensuring spectral efficiency and spatial diversity. Powered by Shure WMAS innovation, Axient Digital PSM transmits multiple audio channels within a single wideband RF channel, dramatically improving spectral efficiency and reducing interference. It uses patented spatial diversity for enhanced signal reliability, low latency for live performances, and seamless integration with digital and analogue inputs, ensuring clear and consistent monitoring even in challenging environments like large-scale productions. The system met all performance requirements, offering high-quality monitoring in a challenging live environment. 

"It was incredible to see Shure's Axient Digital PSM make its debut at Schools Spectacular 2024," said Jacob Mumford, Applications Engineer at Jands. "This likely marks the first deployment of WMAS technology at an event of this size and status in Australia. A huge thanks to Peter Twartz for his expertise and enthusiasm for integrating this new tech into such a significant event."

Advantages

The introduction of Shure’s Axient® Digital PSM system enhanced the Schools Spectacular’s audio performance, providing hosts with clear and reliable in-ear monitoring. The system’s spatial diversity nsured flawless operation throughout the event, allowing the audience to experience uninterrupted and dynamic performances.

Profile RF Management’s Peter Twartz praised the Axient Digital PSM, noting that its build quality is precisely consistent with Shure's products. He also forsees a significant shift in the industry towards the widespread adoption of WMAS technology. “I think it’s going to become mainstream very rapidly,” predicts Peter. “Concert and touring professionals are going to trip over themselves to use it. It also sounds great!”