Yogesh Dhawan Enjoys Soundcraft® Si3’s Versatility

Soundcraft’s new Si3 digital desk is receiving high exposure on the Indian sub-continent, thanks to the support of New-Delhi based rental company, Dhawan Electricals Pvt Ltd.

Having already used the board to mix one of India’s leading rock bands Agnee this autumn, sound engineer Yogesh Dhawan, says that the Si3 has subsequently enjoyed a heavy tour of duty.

“Pathways World School went crazy when I told them that we were going digital for this year’s Annual Day,” he said.

The two-day Founders Weekend at the exclusive school in early December featured non-stop entertainment on its 30-acre campus, under the theme of the school’s motto: Learn, Work, Play, Think, LIVE!

The sound engineer had good reason for fielding the Si3. Over the weekend of festivities he ended up making around 25 cues for each event and used almost 37 channels on the board as a programme of Indian classical music, orchestras, theatre (involving many lapel mics) and award ceremonies unfolded.

“I was so comfortable with the Si3 that throughout the programme all I needed to do was push the ‘Next’ button and I was sorted,” he said.

Another successful show with the Si3 took place at the Ramlila Grounds for Dr. Paul Dhinakaran of the Jesus Saves Society. This time the Si3 was used as a monitor console for the prayer festival. Says Yogesh, “I didn’t know whether the Si3 was also designed to mix monitors — but I never thought twice about its capabilities and had a wonderful time working with it.

“I ended up using more than half the board for the gala of instruments and choir on stage for this event — which went on for three days.”

Finally, a show for the Spanish Embassy at the Lotus Temple in New Delhi — one of seven Baha'i Houses of Worship in the world — also saw an induction on the Soundcraft board by sound engineer Javi Ustara.

Although he had happily experienced Soundcraft’s larger Vi6 he was initially hesitant to use the Si3 until Yogesh provided a quick tour. “He was working on the sound in no time and was delighted with the quality of the sound.”

With its easy operation and generous input and bus count the Si3 was perfect for all Yogesh’s needs — whether at front-of-house or at the stage end.