Getting some upgrades; what should I expect?

[Tex]

My school is finally getting some sound upgrades. The old Soundcraft board is dying and one of the mains sounds blown so it's about time. After chasing down three quotes for a completely new system, I was informed that there was only enough money for a board and a new center cluster.
Here's what I'm getting (I did not make this decision; it's made at the district level):
Console: Allen & Heath GL2400-32
Speakers: OAP Q-2500SP Mains-High-Mid
OAP Q-1800LP Mains-Sub
Are there any problems with this setup that I can anticipate? I've always heard that Allen and Heath boards are delicate. Is this going to be a negative factor in a high school setting?
Please don't suggest that I buy something else. This is a done deal. I'm just looking for any problems I might encounter, or (if I'm lucky) maybe some congratulations for getting some good equipment. Although if the Colortran Innovator that I got last year is any indication, I may be in trouble! (It's not that bad; I just wanted an Ion...)
Thanks!

[soundlight]

The GL2400 is built like a tank. I've used it multiple times (each in a different place, using a different console), and it's wonderful for a board in that price range. Just about the best you could do. Don't know about OAP though, I've never used their stuff.

[Dionysus]

The Allen & Heath GL2400-32 is a great board. It should work just fine.
Like with any console I highly suggest covering it when not in use, and taking what mild measures you can to keep it safe from vandals, idiots, and pop-drinkers.

As for the cabinets you said that they were just replacing the center-cluster... What are the others in operation?

[museav]

Originally Posted by Tex

My school is finally getting some sound upgrades. The old Soundcraft board is dying and one of the mains sounds blown so it's about time. After chasing down three quotes for a completely new system, I was informed that there was only enough money for a board and a new center cluster.
Here's what I'm getting (I did not make this decision; it's made at the district level):
Console: Allen & Heath GL2400-32
Speakers: OAP Q-2500SP Mains-High-Mid
OAP Q-1800LP Mains-Sub
Are there any problems with this setup that I can anticipate? I've always heard that Allen and Heath boards are delicate. Is this going to be a negative factor in a high school setting?
Please don't suggest that I buy something else. This is a done deal. I'm just looking for any problems I might encounter, or (if I'm lucky) maybe some congratulations for getting some good equipment. Although if the Colortran Innovator that I got last year is any indication, I may be in trouble! (It's not that bad; I just wanted an Ion...)
Thanks!

Those could be good product selections or terrible ones, without knowing a lot more about the application and the desired goals there is no way to tell. What did you tell the firms preparing the bids? How did they arrive at these product selections? What equipment are these replacing and have you experienced any problems with those other than the apparent failures (not enough inputs, insufficient speaker coverage or output level, etc.)? Did anyone verify that the existing speaker is damaged and that it and the existing console cannot be easily repaired? What are you trying to do? What are the applications? What is the physical space like? What do you have for system processing, amps, etc.? Who is installing these? Who is going to be tuning or retuning the speaker system? Is any related cabling, rigging, hardware, etc. also being provided? Is the center cluster a standalone element or is it part of a LCR speaker system or anything like that? Are the speakers the 60x40 or 90x40 version and are they being run biamped or full range? Hopefully someone considered all of these as well as any other related factors before making any decisions.

In general, the A&H GL2400 series is a good console for the price. However, whether it fits your requirements as far as inputs and outputs, functionality, etc. is critical to determining if it is a good choice for your application.

I am more concerned about the speakers as selecting the right speakers for any application can entail considering many factors. Do they provide the right coverage for the application? The desired output and response? Do they physically work? Are they compatible with the existing processing and amplification? OAP makes some unique speakers but there are many competing products to the particular models noted and frankly, I would typically consider a number of other products first. But there may be something that makes them a particularly good fit for your application. I just hope that decision was based on how they work in the application and not just on the cost.

[Tex]

Originally Posted by museav

I just hope that decision was based on how they work in the application and not just on the cost.

I'm not a sound expert by any means, but I had some of the same concerns. The firms that gave me quotes all sent out technicians who spent a couple of hours measuring, documenting and taking pictures. The firm we're going with has done other installations in the area and has a good reputation. They requested a copy of and asked lots of questions about my Vectorworks drawing of our theatre, so I'm fairly confident that the equipment recommendations were made specifically for my space. It's always hard to be sure, though. In a situation where I don't make the final decision, I'm sort of at the mercy of fate.
My main concern was the impression I had formed over the years that Allen & Heath consoles were delicate. I'm glad to hear that this one is fairly tough. It will be covered when not in use. (Extra protection since the booth is ALWAYS locked if I'm not there. )

[renegadeblack]

You just got an Innovator last year?!?!? I thought that console was banned. If you haven't had problems yet, just wait, you will soon enough.

As for the Allen & Heath, I know a few guys who swear by their Allen & Heaths. They all love them.

[Shillyer]

I used a A&H GL-2800 (Very similar just more buses and things of that nature) during my time in high school, I found it was a very reliable board and also that it was fairly easy to teach. Most students picked up the basics very quickly. Without knowing more info it sounds like the board will probably work out well for you guys.

[Blah067]

I have worked with a few A&H boards and had such bad experiences with them I just gave up on them... I guess I kinda got scared away from them...

[Tex]

Originally Posted by renegadeblack

You just got an Innovator last year?!?!? I thought that console was banned. If you haven't had problems yet, just wait, you will soon enough.

Yeah, I know... My district probably cleared the vendor's old inventory. I don't mind the interface so much. It's pretty standard. Funny you should mention the problems, though. I just started getting low battery warnings. Fortunately, they're cheap and easy to change.

Thanks to all who have offered opinions.

[TimmyP1955]

Allen & Heath - great choice.

OAP - given the many poor comments I've seen about their snakes, I'd steer completely clear.

If you want powered speakers, look at Yorkville and (whatever it is that's always missing from my favorites when I go looking for it).