The RCF ART 4 series hit Aussie shores in late 2010 and many in the rental business have been keeping a keen eye on the scene to see how it’s performing against the already proven and very popular RCF offerings. Feedback thus far has been extremely positive (we tested them before anyone else so we knew how good they were!).
Above: The road that leads to the very isolated Tanami Desert.
The Newmont mine situated in the Tanami Desert 540km North West of Alice Springs purchased a complete RCF audio system for the Granites Mine Social Club and bar. The social club runs many events and often books bands from interstate to perform at the mine itself.
The Tanami Desert is considered the most isolated desert on earth and it remained unexplored until well into the 20th Century.
Above: The Tanami ‘truck’ which greets those who arrive at the mine.
The mine can house up to 800 people on site so shows on-site are always well attended. The bands put on at least two performances usually comprised of an 8PM and 8AM show to coincide with the shift changes. The system gets driven hard and is required to operate in an ambient temperature of at least 40 degrees Celsius.
Above: Please, shut the gate.
The band pictured below is Dr Elephant from Darwin, a great band that is very popular with the locals.
The PA consists of 2 x RCF 4PRO 8003 subs, 2 x ART 4 Series 425a speakers and 4 x ART 310a powered boxes (used for fold-back). An additional ART 425a is also utilised for drum-fill.
When coupled with the 1,000W 4PRO 8003 sub boxes, the ART 425a’s provide a compact solution that has the sound signature and output of a full scale mid venue production PA system. The high SPL from this physically small setup can be heard around the entire mining village so there’s no sleeping while the band is on!
Above: The stage is set and ready to go.
Heat and dust is no problem either. RCF’s new generation of digital amplifier emits virtually no heat and doesn’t require air movement to keep cool which makes it perfect for atypical environments of extreme weather such as the harsh dusty Tanami desert.
Above: Dr. Elephant doing a morning gig for the miners.
Following from the very successful 322 series, the new ART 4 series looks like a worthy successor to Australia’s favorite powered plastic rental PA system.
