Powerful Sound on Stage: Inside Željko Samardžić’s Live Setup

For professional performers, a high-quality audio system is more than a technical necessity—it is the foundation of every successful concert. Premium equipment ensures pristine sound reproduction, stable signal transmission, and acoustics that allow artists to express their musical vision without compromise. In live concert production, where every detail matters, reliable and powerful sound reinforcement shapes not only the audience’s experience but also the atmosphere of the event and the perception of the artist.

  • Client: Željko Samardžić
  • Date of project: 2025

Željko Samardžić, one of the most celebrated singers from the former Yugoslavia, is known for his emotional ballads and warm, distinctive voice. Born in Mostar and later rising to fame in Belgrade, he has built a career that continues to resonate across the region. Over decades, he has earned a reputation as a consummate professional—dedicated to delivering performances of the highest quality. His commitment to music, combined with his investment in cutting-edge equipment, ensures audiences enjoy unforgettable live experiences.

d&b audiotechnik Sound System

To elevate the sound quality of his concerts, Željko chose to equip his stage with d&b audiotechnik loudspeakers, subwoofers, and monitors—a brand renowned for precision and consistency in professional audio. His setup includes the d&b V7P loudspeakers, V-GSUB subwoofers, and MAX2 monitors, powered by the d&b D40 amplifier.

The V7P is a 3-way passive loudspeaker featuring two 10-inch drivers, one 8-inch midrange driver, and a 1.4-inch compression driver. It delivers uniform, crystal-clear coverage throughout the venue. The V-GSUB, equipped with 18" and 12" neodymium drivers, employs a cardioid design to minimize unwanted rear sound emissions, ensuring powerful yet controlled bass. On stage, the MAX2 monitors provide precise tonal response and outstanding control, giving performers the confidence to deliver their best. The D40 amplifier supports MILAN, AES3, and analog inputs, ensuring full compatibility and uncompromised performance.

Mixing and Processing

Central to Željko’s live sound is the DiGiCo SD11 digital mixing console, compact yet exceptionally powerful. Featuring a 15-inch TFT LCD touchscreen, motorized faders, and intuitive workflow, the SD11 offers 48 input channels at 48/96kHz (expandable to 80), along with twelve assignable 32-band graphic EQs, six stereo effects processors, and eight VCA groups. Its advanced Snapshot function allows seamless transitions between soundcheck, system setup, and live performance. Powered by Stealth Digital Processing™ and Super FPGA technology, the console guarantees ultra-fast processing, minimal latency, and uncompromised audio clarity.

For smaller performances, the SD11 pairs with the DiGiCo D-Rack, providing 32 inputs and 16 outputs. For larger concerts, the expanded DiGiCo D2-Rack is employed, offering 48 mic/line inputs, 24 outputs, and dual MADI connectivity via BNC or CAT5E.

Additional Equipment

Instrument connectivity is handled with precision through Radial Engineering devices. The ProD2 passive stereo DI box ensures reliable, transparent signal transmission, while the Key-Largo mixer/DI supports the keyboard player with seamless integration.

Drums are miked using a DPA 2015 Stereo Pair of cardioid overhead microphones, renowned for their natural sound and exceptional accuracy. They capture the richness and detail of the drum kit, adding depth and authenticity to the mix.

The system is complemented with Sommer Cable solutions, selected for their durability and uncompromising audio performance.

The Result

By carefully curating his audio setup, Željko Samardžić delivers concerts where sound quality matches the emotional depth of his music. The synergy of d&b loudspeakers, DiGiCo consoles, DPA microphones, Radial DI boxes, and Sommer cables creates a powerful, reliable, and finely tuned system. This technical excellence ensures that every performance resonates with clarity and emotion—allowing the audience to experience the music exactly as it was intended.