Every year since 1995 sound engineers of the Theatre Vorpommern have been faced with the challenge of staging open-air performances during the summer season with a symphony orchestra and choir performance in front of an audience of up to 2,000. The sound system varied each year, according to the specific requirements of each performace, and it was decided that a more permanent solution had to be found for the next few years. After intensive research, the final decision fell on K.M.E.'s active system QSA 500 D, from the Prestige Series, together with ASW 18 subwoofers. Based on the session in K.M.E.'s acoustic room, sound engineer Erich Cymek had high expectations for the actual live test on-site and his expectations were positively confirmed. All sound systems used previously were co-ordinated to personal requirements using Smaart software and adjustments were made accordingly. The K.M.E. system fully met the expectations of the team, and the Arts Committee accepted the decision, considering the system to be a remarkable improvement.
The weather-proof polyurethane-coating of the active systems allows it to be split for smaller performance requirements, while still achieving a powerful sound as a full system for rock concerts. For opera performances, the required sound can be easily achieved without using subwoofers: QSA 500 D top parts produce enough low frequencies, via their 12" speakers. The horn sound, meanwhile, is clear and neutral - particularly important for an authentic sound production of classical musical instruments. The water-resistant system stood up to the rain and despite the equipment getting soaked, the electronics were not affected. This in effect influenced the final investment decision: the original project plan included passive systems with separate active electronics, but following further investment reviews and after consultation with K.M.E. it was finally decided to use active systems.
(Lee Baldock)
