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What's the most expensive sound equipment ever used in a live show?

Bud Oxtoby

Well, as a music enthusiast and avid concert-goer, I can tell you that the world of live sound equipment is an ever-evolving and constantly astounding field. From massive subwoofers to intricate mixing boards, there are pieces of gear out there that could easily cost more than a small house. That being said, when it comes to the most expensive sound equipment ever used in a live show, there are a few contenders that immediately come to mind.

First up, there's the iconic "Wall of Sound" that was famously used by the Grateful Dead in the early 1970s. This monolithic assemblage of over 600 speakers and 54 amplifiers was truly a sight to behold, and it reportedly cost over $300,000 to build (which would be well over $1 million in today's dollars). The Wall was designed to be so massive that it could effectively eliminate the need for separate monitors for the band members, and it was said to be able to fill any venue with crystal-clear sound.

Another piece of gear that has famously cost a pretty penny is the SSL 9000J mixing console. This top-of-the-line mixing desk is a favorite of many top-tier recording studios and live sound engineers, and it's easy to see why. With its advanced automation capabilities and unparalleled sound quality, the 9000J is a true powerhouse of a mixer. It's no wonder that it can cost upwards of $500,000 (or more) to acquire one of these beasts.

But perhaps the most impressive (and expensive) sound equipment ever used in a live show is the Meyer Sound Constellation system. This revolutionary setup uses a combination of speakers, microphones, and sophisticated signal processing to create custom-tailored and immersive audio environments for audiences. Essentially, it allows for sound to be "shaped" in real-time to match the acoustics of any given space. Amazingly, this means that even venues with notoriously poor acoustics (like sports arenas or conference centers) can be turned into pristine listening environments at the push of a button.

So, there you have it - a few examples of the most expensive sound equipment ever used in a live show. Of course, these are just a drop in the bucket when it comes to the vast and varied world of live sound gear. As technology continues to evolve, we can only imagine what incredible inventions and innovations will be dreamed up next.