Across one weekend in June, Red Bull Symphonic took over The Montecasino Teatro, Johannesburg, with a powerful blend of orchestral compositions and contemporary Amapiano energy.
Powering this much-anticipated performance was a complete sound system from Stage Audio Works house brand, Plus Audio. “We’ve put Plus Audio through its paces before, but Red Bull Symphonic was the next level,” commented Nathan Ihlenfeldt, Technical Director at Stage Audio Works and FOH Engineer for the event. “Between the orchestral detail and the energy of Amapiano, the system needed to be exceptionally versatile. In short, it exceeded all expectations.”
The main PA consisted of FS212 loudspeakers, flown 12 per side, providing powerful coverage across The Teatro auditorium. A flown horizontal sub array of seven FS219B units took care of powerful yet controlled low-end frequencies. ET110L loudspeakers, used as front fills rounded out the system, providing clear response for those sitting close to the stage. Amplification was handled by a combination of AC8 and AC12 amplifiers, also from Plus Audio.
A total of 18 MMS1 microphones picked up the melodies of the orchestra with clarity, capturing intricate dynamics and allowing for a natural sound when blended with amplified elements. The result was a layered soundscape that easily filled the venue, but without compromising on the musical detail.
“There are a lot of great microphones in this category; however, most that provide the full suite of accessories needed for orchestral applications are simply unaffordable in quantity for a South African rental company,” Ihlenfeldt explained. “MMS1 is a powerful enabling tool, allowing better outcomes due to mechanical design at a price point that makes sense.”
Bad Weather led as the production company on Red Bull Symphonic, with Blue Array Productions providing the audio control and microphone package and along with logistics support, Music Junkies supplying backline and Stage Effects supplying rigging, lighting and video.
Bringing together talent from across the regional events industry, Jonathan Bandli led the team as Creative Director and Production Manager, working in collaboration with SAW Systems Engineer, Garrick Van der Tuin, Monitor Engineer, Marinus Visser, Monitor and Recording Tech, Joshua Deetleefs, FOH Assistant, Titus Augustinus, and Audio Crew Chief, Nathan Thiart.
With the system standing up to all the show’s requirements over three consecutive nights, Ihlenfeldt believes that the project was the perfect test case for Plus Audio’s high-performance capabilities at an accessible price point.
“This wasn’t just a big gig; it was an opportunity for Plus Audio to really prove itself,” he concluded. “The system delivered power, clarity and musicality for a challenging live mix and validated what we’ve long believed – that Plus Audio is engineered not just for controlled demos or small shows, but for serious, top-tier productions. The Plus Audio portfolio is a strategic addition to our toolkit and meets the demands for a high-performance mid-level solution. This gives users greater flexibility and more options for delivering excellence across a diverse range of productions.”
Photos: Stage Audio Works
