Sound Projects entered the NCH in 1997, when the Dutch audio manufacturer built and supplied a custom made centre cluster which was later replaced by eight Sound Projects SP-2 active cabinets.
The newly installed configuration consists of a Sound Projects Linex clustered 10-cabinet line array facing forward, with four SP-4 Linex speakers facing the rear balcony and one facing each of the side balconies.
Stereo imaging is made possible by the addition of eight SP-2 and four X-Act active loudspeakers. A remotely controlled LCR configuration is also possible. The system is completed with six Sound Projects Gluon front-fills and two Sound Projects SP-215 and two x SP-415 active bass bins, offering a total output of more than 32KW.
NCH chief sound engineer Paul Kohlmann says, "We organised a 'shoot out' as part of a European tender bid with five major sound equipment manufacturers for on-site comparative testing. Not only did Linex come out best with intelligibility; the streamlined design of the system was also very important, just like the compact size. The new system holds maximum flexibility for touring orchestras or bands, and reduces turnaround time drastically."
The Branford Marsalis jazz quartet inaugurated the National Concert Hall's new Linex amplification system - since then, productions at the NCH have met with enthusiastic reactions to sound and acoustics from audience and media.
(Jim Evans)
