"One of the principal stipulations for the sound systems was the provision of even coverage throughout each auditorium," says Stanislav Lehen, manager, SBL Acoustics. "This standard request proved trickier than expected. The architecture of the rooms posed a number of problems. They were all very wide and open. To arrive at a homogeneous sound image, therefore, we had to come up with something exceptional."
The theatre's technical specialists were unanimous in favouring Electro-Voice when it came to selecting the sound equipment. "The brand already enjoys an excellent reputation in Slovakia," says Lehen. "But on top of that, EV was quicker than all the other suppliers in coming up with a viable concept, and that clearly impressed the people who made the decision."
Lehen adds, "Oliver Sahm, EVI Audio's project and sales manager, provided us with outstanding technical support. His acoustic simulations were of crucial importance when it came to deciding which systems to opt for. It was thanks to his assistance that we were able to identify what I feel represents the ideal sound reinforcement concept for the theatre."
The building of the new National Theatre in Bratislava began back in 1984, but the ambitious project had to be put on ice for many years due to the changing political climate - 23 years elapsed between the laying of the foundation stone and the opening of its doors.
(Jim Evans)
