Andy Carrington: Pushing Live Sound Boundaries with Sonnox Plug-ins
From the gritty clubs of London to global stages, Andy Carrington has honed his craft with acts like The Big Pink, Super Furry Animals, Mac Miller, and FKA Twigs. With decades of experience and a transition from analog to digital using an Avid S3L console, Andy knows how to make live mixes sound exceptional. We caught up with him to talk about his approach to live mixing and how Sonnox plug-ins are integral to his workflow.
Getting Started and Finding the Groove
How did you get your start in the industry?
I moved from Cornwall to London over twenty years ago, diving into the rave scene and setting up sound systems. I cut my teeth in various clubs and live music venues around the city before hitting the road with bands.
Tell us about your recent tour work.
I wrapped up with The Kills in October, then headed to the USA with FKA Twigs. We did the Jimmy Fallon show and followed that with five weeks of sold-out concerts. I’m using the Avid S3L paired with Sonnox plug-ins on just about everything!
Leveraging Sonnox Plug-ins for Live Performance
Which Sonnox plug-ins are you currently using, and how do they enhance your mixes?
I rely on the Sonnox Live bundle, which includes six Oxford plug-ins optimized for Avid live consoles. Since FKA Twigs’ show is effects-heavy, I use the Oxford Reverb extensively. Each song needs a distinct reverb, and this plug-in allows me to quickly dial in unique settings. I start with the presets—like ‘Rich Plate’—and tweak them on the fly. For example, I might start with a super long tail and adjust in real time depending on the room’s acoustics. The interface is brilliant and quick, letting me make constant, subtle adjustments throughout the set.
What about other Sonnox tools?
I use the Inflator on the mix bus; it’s fantastic for gluing everything together and making elements pop. For songs that demand extra punch, I adjust the Input and Effect levels dynamically. It’s quick to access via the plug-in shortcuts, so I can react in real time, especially when the crowd is really into it. I also run the SuprEsser DS on vocals. It’s invaluable with artists like FKA Twigs, who is not just a singer but a dynamic performer.
I use the Inflator on the mix bus; it’s fantastic for gluing everything together and making elements pop.
The virtual soundcheck allows me to identify and address problem areas in her performance, like where she’s moving a lot, and tailor the de-essing accordingly.
Navigating the Challenges of Live Mixing
How do you utilize virtual soundchecks?
We record the shows into Pro Tools on my laptop, and during downtime, I can review the playback. This feature allows me to make precise adjustments without needing the band present. It’s a game-changer for fine-tuning elements and smoothing out rough edges, especially in a high-effects environment.
Are you using any EQ plug-ins?
Absolutely, I use the Oxford EQ on the stereo bus for finely tuning mixes. With highly gained vocals and lots of effects, there’s always a need to carve out specific frequencies, especially in different rooms with varying PA setups. For instance, if a snare sound feels harsh, I can make a small dip without sacrificing its snap or power. I also use the Oxford Dynamics on bass to manage its wide dynamic range. The Warmth feature helps blend the live bass with synth elements seamlessly.
The Sonnox Advantage
Overall, Sonnox plug-ins are incredible—they offer a vast range of sonic possibilities that are essential to my live setup. The Sonnox Live bundle is an indispensable part of my touring rig, allowing me to push the boundaries of what’s possible in a live mix.