Electrocraft Stuns Audiences at Mahindra Independence Rock
Electrocraft's Sound Solutions and Recently Acquired CODA Systems Deliver at Iconic Mahendra I-Rock
Festival
Mahindra Independence Rock (I-Rock) is one of India's most anticipated rock music festivals,
drawing
large crowds and featuring high-energy performances. The audio setup for such a large-scale event
requires meticulous planning and expertise to ensure optimal sound quality for both performers and
audiences. Electrocraft, one of India's leading sound rental companies, was responsible for
designing and executing the audio setup for the festival. Their approach involved careful
consideration of venue acoustics, equipment selection, and advanced sound optimisation techniques.
As the festival took place in an outdoor environment, the absence of reflective surfaces meant that
common indoor acoustic issues such as reflections and slap-backs were not a concern. However, other
crucial factors influenced the design of the audio setup.
Key considerations included the ground limit that needed to be covered, SPL levels throughout the
venue, and the tonality of the system, ensuring suitability for a rock festival and the maximum
expected audience capacity. Having worked on the festival for several years, Electrocraft was
already familiar with the venue's characteristics, allowing for accurate determination of the number
of speaker boxes required.
For the main PA system, Electrocraft deployed:
- 20 AiRay speakers as the main PA
- 24 SCP subwoofers to deliver powerful low-end frequencies
- 4 CiRay speakers as front fills
- Side fills consisting of 2 SCV-F with 3 APS per side
The FOH and monitor consoles were carefully chosen to provide maximum control over the festival's
sound:
- Yamaha PM7 as the production console
- FOH Consoles:
AVID S6L 32D, DIGICO Q338, WAVES LV1
- Monitor Console: DIGICO SD10
One of the biggest challenges in setting up a large-scale outdoor event is the efficiency of rigging
and system deployment. The use of the CODA system optimiser significantly reduced setup time
compared to previous years. The unique rigging system, along with the 4-core connection of the AiRay
speakers, also reduced the amount of cabling involved while rigging the system compared to previous
flagship boxes.
Some engineers were initially hesitant about using the CODA system but quickly adapted to it and
appreciated its capabilities. The optimisation by the systems engineer and visual feedback provided
by the LINUS Control software helped in understanding the sonic response while observing the
live
RTA feed via SMAART.
The audio setup for Mahindra Independence Rock was a testament to Electrocraft's expertise in
professional sound reinforcement. By leveraging advanced technology, efficient rigging systems, and
close collaboration with artists, a world-class audio experience was delivered. With the CODA system
optimiser playing a crucial role in system design and deployment, the festival's attendees and
performers experienced a powerful, high-quality sound setup, setting a new benchmark for future live
rock events in India.