Category: Martin Audio

IND – Rourkela Divas 2026, the 10th edition of the city’s annual celebration, was held on April 11 and 12, 2026 at Sector-13 Melan Ground, Rourkela, Odisha. Organised by the Canvas Rourkela group, the two-day festival marked the foundation of Rourkela and celebrated the city’s cultural identity, public spirit, and shared pride. The event drew huge public participation and created a vibrant festive atmosphere, making it a significant gathering for the local community. The first day concluded on a rocking note with electrifying performances by Shraddha Mishra, Soujanya Rath, and SK Jitu.

For an event of this scale in an open-ground environment, FSL deployed a Martin Audio WPL system for FOH, supported by SXH218 subwoofers. The system delivered the projection, clarity, and low-frequency impact required to serve a large audience with consistency. WPL brought strong vocal presence and musical definition across the venue, while SXH218 added the depth and authority needed to match the energy of the performances, helping create a polished and engaging sound experience throughout the celebration.

IND – Fusing a vibrant restaurant experience with an exhilarating nightclub atmosphere, Club Roadies in Udaipur has selected a Martin Audio Blackline X audio solution to deliver high-output performance for night-time DJ sets whilst retaining clarity and listener comfort for diners.

Club Roadies is a bold new extension of the MTV Roadies brand – India’s legendary and longest-running reality TV show spanning 19 years. A collaboration between Viacom 18 and Work With Fun LLP, the Club and Café Roadies concept introduces energetic destinations where guests can eat, drink, and celebrate in a high-octane environment.

With a ‘Wall of Fame’ of previous winners, and an interior design that delivers iconic imagery from the long-running series, the venues combine nostalgic vibes alongside music and DJ performances.

EVEN UNDER DEMANDING CONDITIONS, THE SYSTEM PERFORMS SMOOTHLY AND RELIABLY.

The audio brief for integrator Securetech AV Designs was uncompromising: deliver a sound system that combined power, precision, and long-term reliability in a demanding club setting. The venue needed an audio solution capable of supporting extended operating hours, adapting to varying crowd densities, and delivering the high-output demands of live DJ performances – all whilst maintaining clarity for the dining experience.

Securetech AV Designs immediately turned to Martin Audio’s Blackline X Series, a proven range of two-way passive loudspeakers, combining excellent sound quality, dispersion control and reliability for fixed installations.

The system design features a carefully selected mix of Blackline X8, X10, and X12 models, with the loudspeakers’ accurately controlled dispersion delivering precise coverage across the venue’s layout. Paired with Blackline X118  18″ subwoofers, the system delivers the low-frequency authority essential for the true club sound experience.

“The Blackline X series offers excellent value and serious performance,” says Ashish Khanna of Securetech AV Designs. “The combination of full-range loudspeakers and subwoofers delivers real impact and clarity. Even under demanding conditions, the system performs smoothly and reliably.”

With comprehensive system alignment and tuning ensuring phase accuracy and a smooth frequency response, the system is optimised for performance for both the daytime dining experience and after-dark club nights.

“We are honoured to have partnered on this exciting new concept of venue,” says Jeff Mandot, Director of Sales of VMT, Martin Audio’s distributor in India. “Securetech AV Designs have expertly deployed a combination of Martin Audio Blackline X Series models to precisely meet the client’s requirements for both high-energy performances and refined dining experiences. It is the ultimate Roadie sound system!”

USA – One of the world’s most celebrated cultural institutions, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, has transformed the sonic experience of its historic Grace Rainey Rogers Auditorium with a sophisticated Martin Audio upgrade. This modular installation overcomes the venue’s long-standing acoustic challenges while providing a high-fidelity portable system for performances across the museum’s iconic gallery spaces.

Opened in 1954 as a purely acoustic hall—designed primarily to showcase instruments from the Met’s own collection with no amplification intended—the 700-capacity Grace Rainey Rogers Auditorium has remained largely unchanged in appearance. The original Korina woodwork endures, as does the Steinway piano gifted by the company upon the venue’s opening. Writing in The Met’s own Bulletin upon its opening, Robert B. Newman describes, “The virtues of the Rogers Auditorium are inescapable and many. Its intimacy is warming. Its seats are built on the wise assumption that nature has not done the upholsterer’s work for him. Its sight lines are perfect and its acoustics so good that no amplifiers are needed, and a person talking in conversational tones on the stage can be heard with ease in the balcony.”

Yet, as the auditorium’s programming evolved, so too did its audio demands. The legacy sound system previously installed – early-generation powered column speakers positioned only on the left and right sides of the room – delivered severely uneven coverage, with significant gaps across both the floor and balcony. It was barely adequate for lectures and simply unsuitable for contemporary musical performances.

Sebastian Hurtado joined The Met as Senior Technical Manager AVMS Production, in 2024. As a seasoned audio engineer who has worked across multiple countries and throughout the US, the sound in the auditorium became an immediate focus.“I think I identified the need for an upgrade within three days of arriving,” he recalls.

Once a business case had been authorised and budgetary approval came, Sebastian wasted no time. His brief was clear: replace the legacy system with a single, unified solution capable of handling everything from intimate lectures to full live bands – all while preserving the visual and architectural integrity of the historic space.

THE EVEN COVERAGE IS THE MOST SIGNIFICANT IMPROVEMENT; THERE’S NOT A DEAD SPOT IN THE ENTIRE ROOM.

After consulting with several top-tier manufacturers, Sebastian and his team selected Martin Audio, citing both the product fit and the quality of communication with the Martin Audio team throughout the process. “We sent an initial concept, and they mapped it out and made recommendations. It made us feel confident it was being done correctly.”

The final installed system is anchored by three Martin Audio TORUS Series T1230 and one T1215 constant curvature array elements, configured as a centre cluster and rigged from a truss at the front of the stage. “We didn’t want to change the essence of the space, and with no positions possible to hang a Left-Right line array, we realised a centre cluster was the way to go,” describes Sebastian. “It covers the lower and upper centre of the house incredibly well. Even without subwoofers, the low end from the TORUS 12s is substantial for video playback and presentations.”

Four Martin Audio FlexPointFP12 12” premium point-source speakers are positioned on the sides to fill outer coverage gaps, while four FP66” models – precisely time-delayed – address the notoriously difficult under-balcony zone. “The FP6s have provided one of the biggest improvements. They sound fantastic and are delayed so well that it almost seems like they’re not doing anything, which is perfect,” he notes.

For larger performances, a ground-stacked system comprising three per side TORUS T820 8” tops and two per side SXC115 15” cardioid subwoofers, is designed to handle any production required in the space. Ten Martin Audio LE100 stage monitors round out the rig: “We’ve had guest engineers ask what they were because they want some; they sound great with minimal processing.”

Sebastian describes a massive shift in audio quality. “The response has been noticeable by everyone. The even coverage is the most significant improvement; there’s not a dead spot in the entire room. And we have the full frequency range represented with incredible clarity and fullness. Whether it’s a lecture that keeps the audience engaged, or a full band with brass and strings, everything is represented properly.”

For Sebastian, a key aspect of the system design was modularity and the ability to deploy elements of the system in other areas. “We wanted to kill two birds with one stone and have a modular system we could take into the galleries.” The ground-stacked system therefore doubles as a portable rig for events and performances throughout the museum, allowing The Met to bring consistent, high-quality audio to spaces as acoustically challenging as the all-glass, hard-surfaced Engelhard Court.

“The challenge in many of our rooms, especially with speaking, is intelligibility. But with the Martin Audio system, we’re able to overcome it,” he says. “Its flexibility means we can deploy optimum systems for each event – that may be three tops and two subs per side, or a more distributed system.”

The Martin Audio cardioid subs have proved particularly successful. “They work remarkably well,” he confirms. “You can stand right behind them and not feel a thing. In a big echo chamber like this museum, having subs fire in only one direction really helps.”

The entire system was purchased through dealer ADI, who also handled amplifier programming and final tuning. Physical installation—including routing cables through the building’s complex, century-old infrastructure—was carried out by Sebastian and his in-house team. A helpful discovery during the process: the mounting locations for the FP12s sat behind fabric-covered plywood panels concealing former pipe organ openings, which served as convenient cable pathways.

“I was thrilled to have the opportunity to work with such a prestigious and world-renowned institution. We worked through a number of design options with Sebastian as we considered all possible use case scenarios and the best way for the museum to get the most bang for their buck,” comments Martha Callaghan, Northeastern Regional Sales Manager, North America, Martin Audio USA. “It’s incredibly gratifying to see this work come to fruition. It’s a gorgeous venue, with important work to do, and the combo of TORUS and FlexPoint makes sure that work is coherent and delivered with pristine articulation and clarity. I am looking forward to our ongoing collaboration with The Met and their team.”

Perhaps most tellingly, the upgrade has changed the way the institution programmes its spaces. “It has prompted programmers to start doing more events in the auditorium,” concludes Sebastian. “Before, they preferred the galleries because the auditorium infrastructure wasn’t great. Now, our spec is much more rider-friendly, and we don’t have to rent outside gear.”

NLD – The Noorderkerkzaal performing arts theatre in Sneek, Netherlands, has been equipped with a permanently installed Martin Audio sound system, specifically tailored to the hall’s demanding acoustic profile and diverse programming.

The Noorderkerkzaal is housed within the historic Reformed Church of Sneek, a landmark building originally constructed in 1881. After serving its congregation until 2001 and briefly functioning as an apartment building, the church underwent an extensive renovation and opened as a venue in 2010.

Now a centrepiece of the Sneek Cultural Quarter, the 200-capacity venue hosts a vibrant mix of concerts, theatre productions, and community gatherings – all of which require exceptional speech intelligibility, musicality, and consistent coverage.

IT ENSURES EVERY PERFORMANCE AND PRESENTATION IS SUPPORTED BY CLEAR, CONTROLLED, AND IMPACTFUL SOUND.

To meet these stringent technical and artistic requirements, the venue selected a new audio solution that balances high-output power with sonic refinement. Following the advice of Martijn de Jong from Martin Audio’s Dutch distributor, Ampco Flashlight Sales, the theatre has installed a Martin FlexPoint loudspeaker system, complemented by Martin SXC cardioid subwoofers and the latest iKON amplification with Dante connectivity.

The Martin Audio FlexPoint series is designed for high performance in fixed installations where clarity and predictable coverage are essential. The installed system provides controlled dispersion for even audience coverage within the venue and the flexibility to adapt to various layouts.

At the heart of the installation are three FlexPoint FP12 12” models positioned in a Left/Centre/Right configuration, supported by three FP8 8” models serving as frontfills. Low-frequency energy is managed by a pair of SXC115 15” subwoofers, their cardioid design essential in controlling bass buildup on stage and maintaining clarity.

The system is powered by iKON IK41 and IK42 Dante-enabled amplifiers, offering efficient multi-channel power, streamlined integration, and modern networked audio routing.

“With this upgrade, the Noorderkerkzaal now benefits from a future-ready audio system capable of delivering consistent results across a broad range of events,” comments de Jong. “It ensures every performance and presentation is supported by clear, controlled, and impactful sound.”

IND – Chaitra Navratri at Korakendra Grounds, Borivali West, Mumbai unfolded as a large-scale festive celebration with Falguni Pathak at the heart of an atmosphere driven by music, movement, and community energy. For an event so deeply rooted in live participation, the audio system had to do much more than simply provide high output. It needed to preserve vocal clarity, rhythmic precision, and musical definition while carrying the excitement of the performance across an expansive venue measuring approximately 500ft x 236ft. In a setting where the audience is constantly engaged with every beat, chorus, and call-and-response moment, consistency across the grounds becomes essential. The sound had to remain powerful and immersive near the stage while still feeling controlled, balanced, and intelligible in the farthest listening zones.

Superwaves executed a major Martin Audio deployment designed for coverage, control, and musical impact. The system featured 32 Martin Audio WPL cabinets as the main PA, 20 Martin Audio WPC cabinets for delay coverage, and 12 Martin Audio WPM cabinets for outfills. Reinforcement was further enhanced with 8 Martin Audio Torus T1215 cabinets as centerfills and 6 Martin Audio Torus T1215 and T1230 cabinets for sidefills. Low-frequency performance came from 36 Martin Audio SXH218 subwoofers at FOH, 12 Martin Audio SX218 subwoofers in the delay section, and 4 Martin Audio WS218X subwoofers for sidefill support. With 12 Martin Audio LE200 stage monitors and a total of 40 Martin Audio iK42 amplifiers, the deployment reflected both technical depth and executional confidence.

NLD – Stairway Productions, a trusted name in the Dutch event industry for many years, has reached new heights in its evolution. Following a consistent path of strategic investment, the company has significantly bolstered its inventory with the acquisition of a Martin Audio WPC (Wavefront Precision Compact) line array system from Dutch distributor Ampco Flashlight Sales.

The journey for Stairway Productions began in 2007, with founder Menno Smit servicing small-scale gigs from his base in Delft, strategically located between Rotterdam and The Hague. In 2014, the company took the decision to expand from its original inventory to a more professional, rider-friendly solution. That led to the first investment in the Martin Audio catalogue in the form of a Blackline system as a versatile, multipurpose workhorse.

Step by step, from that initial investment through to the subsequent acquisition of a W8LM system, Martin Audio has played a central role in the Stairway Productions success story – delivering a powerful, consistent sonic signature that has proven its worth across countless applications.

I WAS INCREDIBLY IMPRESSED BY THE WPC’S PERFORMANCE AND CONTROL

Driven by an uncompromising focus on audio quality and reliability, Smit and his team have now taken a major leap in both inventory and technical capability. The new investment comprises 24 Martin Audio WPC line array cabinets, complemented by the company’s existing stock of SX218 subwoofers.

The decision to move to Wavefront Precision was cemented during a hands-on demonstration. “I heard the systems during a Martin Audio Experience Day at the Gebr. De Nobel venue in Leiden,” Smit recalls. “I was incredibly impressed by the WPC’s performance and control; I knew instantly that this was the right direction for our next phase of growth.”

“With the Martin Audio WPC system now spearheading its inventory, Stairway Productions is primed for the next generation of productions,” comments Martijn de Jong at Ampco Flashlight Sales. “The system offers the scalability and flexibility required for larger festivals and complex indoor events, ensuring the same uncompromising reliability that clients have come to expect.”

One of the first high-profile deployments for Stairway’s new WPC system was UIT Week Utrecht—the city’s massive introduction week for new students. Throughout the week-long event, Stairway Productions provided full technical production across multiple locations, handling everything from live bands and background music to complex presentations and high-quality livestreams.

The festival’s closing day presented a significant challenge, with approximately 4,000 visitors and stringent urban noise regulations. The combination of advanced Wavefront Precision technology and meticulous preparation proved essential for the demanding environment. By utilising smart cardioid subwoofer configurations and continuous monitoring via the MeTrao measuring system, Stairway was able to deliver a high-impact audio experience while remaining strictly within permit requirements.

But for Smit, the success of Stairway Productions is built on more than just world-class equipment; it is about the people and the partnerships behind the scenes.

The collaboration with Ampco Flashlight Sales has been a cornerstone of this expansion. “The service and support we receive is exceptional,” concludes Smit. “It’s a relationship defined by short communication lines, proactive problem-solving, and support that goes far beyond the initial delivery of equipment.”

NLD – Purple Group, a premier production house in the Netherlands, has bolstered its inventory with a major investment in Martin Audio’s WPC and WPL Wavefront Precision line array systems, supplied by Ampco Flashlight Sales.

With over 30 years of expertise in lighting, sound, video, and rigging, Purple Group is no stranger to the Martin Audio family. Having previously fielded legacy systems – including W8LC, W8LM, and Longbow – the transition to a new generation of Wavefront Precision arrays was a natural evolution for the company.

The system’s daily operations at Purple Group are spearheaded by Guus Hoekstra and Robert de Loey. “I’ve enjoyed working with Martin Audio for years,” comments de Loey. “The brand has always proven to be reliable, delivering a sonic signature that immediately appeals to both artists and engineers.”

Working alongside Dutch distributor Ampco Flashlight Sales, Purple Group first identified the WPC system as a versatile solution for their rental needs. A 2 x 10”, medium-format, three-way bi-amped array, WPC delivers premium performance, consistency, and projection.

WPC AND WPL GIVES US THE FLEXIBILITY TO SERVE A WIDE VARIETY OF WPC AND WPL GIVES US THE FLEXIBILITY TO SERVE A WIDE VARIETY OF SHOWS, FROM FESTIVALS TO INDOOR EVENTS. SHOWS, FROM FESTIVALS TO INDOOR EVENTS.

The initial investment comprised 24 WPC elements paired with 24 SX218 dual-18” subwoofers, supplemented by TORUST1215 constant curvature loudspeakers serving as front fills – all driven by iKON multi-channel power amplifiers.

The WPC system wasted no time proving its capabilities in the field, delivering high-fidelity sound, uniform coverage, and substantial headroom – even in demanding large-scale outdoor environments.

Almost immediately after delivery, the rig was deployed at Zwarte Cross in Lichtenvoorde – the world’s largest motocross and music festival, attracting 220,000 visitors – as well as the Nirwana Tuinfeest rock festival.

High-profile acts such as Kensington and Triggerfinger performed through the new system, with the technical team reporting universal praise for its performance.

Following the resounding success and positive client feedback of the WPC deployments, Purple Group moved quickly to scale their capabilities. This led to a second significant investment, adding 24 WPL large-format 2 x 12” elements and 24 SXH218 high-output subwoofers to their arsenal.

“With this expansion, Purple Group now commands two powerful, flexible, and future-proof systems,” notes Martijn de Jong at Ampco Flashlight Sales.

Reflecting on the acquisitions, Purple Group’s Guus Hoekstra sums up the strategic value of the move: “The combination of Martin Audio’s WPC and WPL gives us the flexibility to serve a wide variety of shows, from festivals to indoor events. This makes it a valuable investment, both now and in the future.”