At Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix, Crunchy Tech was tasked with transforming the park’s aging sound system into a next-generation audio experience. Centered around the powerful QSC Core 110f digital signal processor, the new theme park-wide system delivers exceptional clarity, reliability and flexibility for announcements, background music and event audio.
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor
Phoenix, Az
Theme Park Audio System Upgrade
QSC Core 110f Audio Overhaul
Modernizing a Legacy System
Project Challenges
Revamping the audio system for an active water park meant working within the limits of its existing infrastructure. We also had to avoid downtime during peak operating periods. The project required integrating new digital audio technologies with the park’s pre-existing low-voltage and networking systems. Some of these systems were decades old.
Weather resistance was another critical factor. The new installation needed to perform flawlessly in Arizona’s intense summer heat. It also had to withstand monsoon rains and high winds. This called for rugged, weatherproof components that could deliver steadfast performance year-round. Sound quality had to remain uncompromised.
Clear, Reliable and Flexible Park Audio
Understanding Client Needs
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix stressed the need for a park-wide system that could adapt to both daily operations and special events. They wanted crystal-clear announcements broadcast across the entire property. They also needed the option to target specific zones for timely and relevant communication for guests and staff.
Equally important was integrating background music, scheduled messages and live event audio into one cohesive system. Our team worked closely with park management to understand traffic flow. We also reviewed event scheduling and operational priorities. This allowed us to design an audio solution that balanced technical performance with ease of use for staff at every level.
Network-Based Digital Audio
Technical Solutions
Crunchy Tech implemented a fully integrated audio solution built on QSC’s Q-SYS ecosystem. The setup uses QLAN-compatible components for seamless connectivity and control. The design focuses on durability, scalability and intuitive operation. Not needless to say, it’s built to grow with the park’s evolving needs.
| System Component | Technology/Equipment | Role in Project |
| Digital Signal Processing | Core 110f DSP | Centralized control for park-wide and zoned paging |
| Outdoor Audio Delivery | Weatherproof surface-mount and column speakers | Clear, durable sound coverage in all weather conditions |
| Amplification & Control | 4-channel 500W amplifiers, wall-mounted touchscreens | Powered the system and enabled intuitive operation |
The system combined high-performance audio components with strategic integration. QSC’s DSP delivered precise, zone-by-zone control. Climate proof speakers kept sound quality consistent across the park. Our approach pushed technology forward while keeping costs down.
Precision in Planning and Execution
Implementation Methodology
Crunchy Tech’s integrated design-build process took the project from concept to completion with minimal disruption. Engineers, installers and Six Flags staff worked in lockstep to satisfy both operational and guest experience goals.
Work was staged around the park’s schedule. That is, installations were carried out during off-peak hours and weather-friendly windows. Where possible, existing low-voltage infrastructure was reused. This was to cut down on downtime and avoid unnecessary demolition.
Our methodology sped up installation and left room for future growth. The system can expand to serve new attractions, zones or technologies sans a full overhaul.
Park-Wide Clarity and Control
Results and Impact
The new system has transformed communication across Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix. It now comprises 53 weatherproof surface-mount speakers and 7 column-style outdoor speakers. Two 4-channel 500W amplifiers feed into the Paradise rack. All of these resulted in a clear, consistent sound in every corner of the park.
Staff can manage announcements across the property or in specific zones. How? By using intuitive tabletop controllers and wall-mounted touchscreens. Pre-recorded messages can either play on a schedule or on demand. This keeps communication timely and automated for daily operations and special events.
Upgraded components and smooth integration have improved the guest experience. Resultingly, the park runs more efficiently and feels more immersive and enjoyable from entry to exit.
Future-Ready Solution
Finishing the Project On Time
The Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix audio revamp proves Crunchy Tech can modernize large-scale systems without adversely impacting operations. We paired advanced QSC technology with smart reuse of existing infrastructure. The client couldn’t be more happy with the outcome: a scalable solution that works for today and is ready for tomorrow.
Assiduous planning and phased installation kept the project on track. Close collaboration with park management guaranteed every step met the park’s high standards. The robust, network-based audio system improves communication, elevates the guest experience and can easily adapt as the park grows.