The Dock Diaries - Adlib’s 40th Anniversary

The car goes vroom, the dog goes woof, the drum goes budum-tsh, and so on. 

Unfortunately, even onomatopoeia can't help us describe the incredible sound experience we had at Adlib's 40th birthday party. Their celebration was almost beyond words. 

But, never ones to shy away from a challenge, we'll give it our best shot. 

Welcome to the first edition of The Dock Diaries, a new series detailing our adventures in the world of all things digital. 

‍

Adlib turns 40

Having worked with Adlib since 2023, we knew they were one of Europe's top event and venue technology companies. 

But it wasn't until their anniversary event that we fully grasped the scale and skill of their operation.

This wasn't your usual pat-yourself-on-the-back party. There was no warm prosecco and polite applause in sight. Instead, it was an immersive, interactive timeline of the evolution of AV technology. An eye-opening, ear-popping, show-stopping event - and an experience we'll never forget. 

‍

Inside Adlib's Anniversary Showcase

We were blown away the second we walked into their enormous Liverpool HQ on a chilly January morning. 

First up, the partners showcasing their latest products and technologies in the 'Manufacturer Zone' read like a who's who of industry giants. 

Audio brands like L-Acoustics, Yamaha, and DiGiCo. Video and lighting firms such as Panasonic, Disguise and ETC. Communication experts including Riedel and Canford. 

Audio touring specialists (and part of the Adlib group) triplex were also on hand, showcasing their audio control systems for touring professionals. 

Then, there was the Lighting Zone, a designated 'dark space' for demonstrations of intelligent lighting, the latest LED fixtures, and control equipment. 

Awe-inspiring stuff. 

But our highlight? The Immersive Live Experience. 

Bear with us - this is where it gets tricky to explain. 

‍

A Sonic Revolution

If you've ever been to a live music event, you'll know how your position in the audience can dramatically alter your listening experience. 

We thought this imbalance was just part and parcel of being a gig-goer. 

That was until AdLib's technical team showed us how immersive audio has changed the game. Instead of the sound being linear like in traditional stereo, immersive audio creates a sense of depth and positional accuracy. Every listener receives a consistent, spatially rich experience, regardless of their location in the arena.

So, when the lead guitarist struts across the stage, the sound follows as if your ears were tracking their funky riffs in real life. Wiki-waka-waka. No more suffering the limitations of stereo output.. Just a mind-blowing sonic experience. 

Adlib also gave us an exclusive look at their collaboration with none other than Sam Fender, showcasing how they use AI-driven tracking technology and synchronised lighting, audio, and video systems in a live show environment. 

Then, just when we thought we'd seen it all, the LA Philharmonic Orchestra treated us to a spellbinding performance of the Harry Potter soundtrack. 

‍

Picture Perfect

While the sound experience was, well, sound (to borrow a local turn of phrase) - the visual aspect of the showcase was equally impressive. 

KINØ's Creative Director, Brad Kavanagh, shared insight into his journey from actor to director, giving us a glimpse into how the team blends high-end film production with live entertainment to turn concerts into cinematic masterpieces.

Their 'Darkroom' screening space featured stunning visuals from recent projects, showcasing the visual storytelling that defines their signature style.

Seeing another client's cutting-edge work brought to life on the big screen was another standout moment. 

‍

Sound Pioneers 

Adlib's celebration was an event-hosting masterclass. Even the sandwiches were spot on. No detail was overlooked.

But our key takeaway wasn't the butties or the sore heads a few of us had from celebrating until the small hours at the Camp & Furnace. 

Instead, we returned to the studio with a clear realisation. Adlib is a pioneer — among the very best at what they do. And our job is to make sure their digital presence meets that standard, delivering an online experience that mirrors the magic of their real-world events.

Sound is notoriously difficult to describe.

And no vroom, woof, or budum-tsh can capture Adlib's expertise.  

But creating unforgettable digital experiences to match it? That's where we take the lead. Wika-waka-waka. 

‍

See our Adlib case study.

‍

Watch this space for more behind-the-scenes stories from the Dock team.

‍