Published 03^rd February, 2025

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.