Located in Kaunas, the 50m algiris Arena covers 39,684m² and is the largest in the Baltic states. Designed as a multi-purpose sports and entertainment venue, its primary functions are hosting basketball matches and live concerts, seating15,442 spectators for the former and up to 17,500 for the latter.
The arena features a number of technical innovations like automated, power-operated windows. Designed by project engineer Orunas Urbonas and installed by Kaunas-based Audiotonas, the Arena's audio specification is similarly advanced, using 16 Yamaha TX4n and 15 TX5namplifiers, with a pair of NHB32-C 32 channel CobraNet interfaces, to drive a major Martin Audio PA, comprising 52 AM3 and four AM15.
"Amajor challenge for the installation was the huge power needed, but withsimple, reliable control and great flexibility," says Orunas. "Audiotonas looked at a range of options and the TXn series combination of power output and advanced functions meant that they it was far the best solution.
"The main reasons for choosing the TXn series were the fact that they are powerful but with the ability to adjust the required power; convenient control and parameter tracking over a local area network; the ability to measure line load impedances and to control the limits of impedance. In addition, the information that they send back about the system makes tracing any problems very straightforward. They were the ideal amplifiers for the Martin Audio system."
(Jim Evans)
