JAPAN: Based in Fushimi-ku, Kyoto, FREEK Inc provides comprehensive live audio production service throughout Japan; the likes of which include specifying, supplying, setting up and operating live systems for events including live music, school functions, local festivals, corporate events and sports such as American football.

For a number of years, the company faced the challenge of trying to source floor monitors suitable for events ranging from those with very high production values, to those where budget was a key consideration. In addition, the team was also conscious that system setup and tuning time is often limited. The main PA speakers naturally take priority, with monitors sometimes not able to be given enough time for optimum tuning.

“We needed a good balance between price and performance, as well as monitors which would not be restricted to a specific amplifier,” informs Freek Inc’s Hisashi Matsumura.

The solution to their conundrum came in the form of Yamaha Pro Audio’s https://in.yamaha.com/en/ CHR series floor-monitors; with the company investing in eight units each of Yamaha’s CHR12M and CHR15M two-way passive floor monitors – with the company revealing that the space-saving coaxial configuration and capacity to deliver precise, smooth phase and frequency response proving to be key purchase considerations.

“When we were considering the purchase, we borrowed demo units and tested them with various amplifiers. No matter what amplifier we paired them with, they produced clear, natural sound,” says Matsumura. “The flat response characteristics also mean they require minimal tuning time. In situations where we literally have no time at all, we can even start a show without tuning them and they still work well. This is a huge advantage.”

Hiroyuki Komori of Freek Inc adds, “The CHR15M and CHR12M also stood out because the sound is free from any noticeable coloration and they meet the ideal performance requirements for floor monitors. The design is also excellent. The low-profile design makes the stage look neat, they are not too heavy but the sturdy handles make them easy to move during stage transitions and the robustness of construction means we don’t have to worry.”

According to the team, the CHR12M has proved to be a great solution for several events, especially when a little extra bass is required, for example for drummers and bass guitarists. “Thanks to its 15-inch woofer, the CHR15M delivers enhanced low-end around 90Hz. But when stage space is limited, or when we are using multiple monitors like for idol groups, the more compact CHR12M keep the stage floor looking clean and uncluttered,” asserts Matsumura.

He concludes by stating, “Both models have an excellent cost-to-performance ratio, which meets what we believe is a long-standing demand in the PA market for easy to use, high performance floor monitors. We look forward to using them much more in a wide range of live event settings.”