SoundPro Case Study: WPU's Upgrade to the DM7C

Estimated Reading Time: 2 Minutes

Is it time to replace your audio mixer? Consider upgrading to the Yamaha DM7 Series! SoundPro recently interviewed William Paterson University’s lead sound engineer Dante Portella about how he upgraded to the DM7C from the TF series with seamless integration, reaching new levels of production value for his small, but mighty team.

William Paterson University requires reliable and versatile mixers for their live production events, ranging from small shows across campus to performances by WPU’s world-class jazz program. When WPU was ready to update their digital mixers, Dante reached out to SoundPro Account Manager Brian Kaphingst, who used his industry expertise to navigate supply chain issues and get the equipment Dante’s team needed to keep delivering on WPU’s reputation for high production standards. SoundPro’s Meg Golz and Demi Weisbrod spoke with Dante about the ways the Yamaha DM7C exceeded WPU’s expectations.

SP: Thanks for chatting with us, Dante. We’d love to learn a bit about you, and how you found your way to SoundPro to purchase your DM7!

DP: I have a musical and technical background, and I started working in recording studios. I transitioned to William Paterson University 13 years ago to begin working in our production division. In my day-to-day, our department handles production and support for various departments, creating marketing materials, lecture captures, and managing performances like musicals and operas around campus. I also teach in the sound engineering arts program. I’ve been a long-time customer of Brian Kaphingst and have purchased a lot for WPU over the years through SoundPro, so when I needed to upgrade my console – it was the obvious choice.

SP: Why did you decide to upgrade to the Yamaha DM7C?

DP: We’ve used Yamaha mixers for years across campus, including the TF series. However, we found that we needed more routing and processing capabilities, so we looked into additional options. We had originally been interested in the QL Series, but as we were researching, the DM7 Series launched. We chose the DM7C due to its compact size and additional features. We also added the Yamaha CTL-DM7 Control Expansion.

SP: What capabilities does the DM7C offer you?

DP: The DM7C allows us to maintain high production standards with a smaller team, adapting easily to different spaces and setups. We needed something flexible. We have a significant Dante infrastructure in place, so having the Yamaha DM7C has been amazing for us. Since all our presentation rooms, theaters, and studios have Dante routing, I can float with my console and simply plug in to access my routing wherever I have to go. That quick turnaround time is amazing for us. This console also provides flexibility for our varied productions, supporting everything from operas to gala events to panel discussions – we had 8 channels of Dugan Automixer with the TF console, but love having the 64 available now. Having broadcast metering has been invaluable for maintaining consistent levels during our various broadcasts.

SP: How easy was it to purchase and implement the DM7C?

DP: Implementation was super easy and straightforward due to our existing infrastructure. We simply swapped consoles and upgraded to the Yamaha Rio1608-D2, with minimal setup required. Brian and SoundPro have been great to work with, navigating and communicating all parts of the process from purchase to delivery, and post-purchase support.

Thanks Dante!

For more information about digital mixers, reach out to the SoundPro experts at info@soundpro.com or 800.203.5611. 

---