Vienna's Opera Ball is one of Europe's largest and most elegant social functions, attracting some of the world's most accomplished musicians, politicians and celebrities. For the event, Fritz selected a 20-channel WMS4500 high end wireless system with 19 bodypacks and one hand-held microphone, an HC577 head-worn microphone with a unique CK77 capsule for the actors, two PT4500 with a CK77 microphone for a moveable piano, and one C414 and C391 microphone each used for the orchestra.
"After comparing the system's requirements to our options for microphones, it was clear that AKG would be the perfect fit," stated Fritz, sound designer for the Vienna State Opera, Bregenzer Festival, Mörbischer Festival and other classical events. "I use AKG equipment in every event where clarity, versatility, and precision are essential. They provide a level of price performance that is simply unrivaled by other brands."
This year's ball was held in the auditorium of the Vienna State Opera House. In preparation for the event, the auditorium was turned into a large ballroom overnight by removing the seats and installing a new floor that lined up flush with the stage. Fritz and his team then measured the audio acoustics while deciding the best equipment to use, ultimately selecting the AKG package for its ability to deliver clear, powerful sound at an affordable price.
(Lee Baldock)
