On current scenario

The coming up of digital products in each of the category has brought with it more functions, features, reliability and performance.

Installed Sound. Market has got a big boost since opening of borders and availability of almost all International brands in India. Today, we see installations in India at par with international standards in all areas of usage i.e. airports, malls, clubs, cinemas etc. Even market for conferencing system in India is in no way less than any part of the world. Today, we can boast of one of the finest installed sound systems in the world.

Live / Tour Sound. In today's date, we have a large number of national / international stars / rock bands performing in India. We are able to meet all the riders. Almost all the latest digital consoles, speakers, amplifiers and other accessories are now available in India. We have large number of Soundcraft digital consoles and JBL Vertec System which have been known for their reliability and performance. We see a good market development for Life & Tour sound.

Broadcast. India can boast of one of the best broadcasting stations in the world with technology and expertise almost at par with international standards. Be it recording facility or editing facility, we have the best equipment and technical expertise to cater to all requirements.

On market and technology

Technology. More and more products are using in-built DSPs. The size of the products have reduced and they have become more reliable, compact, light weight, offer more functions and better reliability.

Volumes. There has been a tremendous increase in volume as the prices have gone down.

Share in Asian & Global market space. The BRIC countries are getting all the attention as they are the next markets for the world and the major manufacturers are looking at these countries with maximum potential.

Awareness across the value chain of consultants-dealers-owners-users. The awareness is definitely increasing and acknowledgement & appreciation for each others work is coming into play. The markets size is growing as people starting to learn use of Technology towards their advantage.

On key challenges

There is a dearth of trained / certified/quality professionals. Live sound and pro audio has huge potential which is still untapped. The educational institutions should actively come forward to promote it as a full time job, which also promises a good income. Most of the people who complete their courses from various institutes reach Mumbai in search of job and become recording engineers. Another challenge is the grey market and is a big hindrance for growth and should be tackled with a strong hand.

On policies or regulatory issues

The import duties are still very high as compared to international standards. The duties in neighbouring Singapore and Dubai are very low which prompts people to import into India or hand carry. With the industry with a promising future, the government should work on the taxes and duties in order to curb such entries in India. The various level of taxes including state entry taxes also prompt people to buy products from other states which effects market development in local areas.

On factors driving the market

Factors driving the market are new products, various international / Indian performances, availability of easy money and availability of the product .

On future outlook

Pro audio and live sound industry can be the next big thing but with the equations set right at the government level, wherein large infrastructure in terms of exhibition halls, concert theatres, sporting venues, theme parks need to be built up which will promote India as a destination for entertainment and tourism. This would start demand for planning international facilities.

Best order of the year

Most of the Commonwealth stadiums are equipped with complete Harman solutions which meet international requirements.