The HiQnet system, featuring 14 JBL Professional Vertec VT4888DP-CN, six Vertec VT4882DP-CN and four VP Series VP7315DP-CN loudspeakers powered by six JBL DP Series DrivePacks and 19 Crown Cts Series amplifiers, is controlled by five BSS Soundweb London DSP processors and connected by Harman Pro Group HiQnet on one cohesive network.
Microphone requirements for the 1850-seat concert hall are handled by HiQnet-compatible AKG WMS 4000 Series wireless system with 18 wireless handheld and lavalier microphones. Orchestra monitoring is provided by stage-level JBL Professional Control 300 and Control Contractor loudspeakers.
The Zagreb Philharmonic Orchestra, Croatia's best-known orchestra, was founded in 1871. Since October 2003 the orchestra has been led by its chief-conductor Vjekoslav Sutej. The orchestra is widely recognised for a distinctive and easily identifiable colour of sound and rhythm and as a result the sound system design, components and integration were critical to maintaining the unique identity of the orchestra.
According to Mark Bailey, application engineer, JBL Professional, who oversaw the HiQnet programming and system commissioning for Lisinski Hall, the new system carefully preserves the sonic integrity of the hall but amplifies the performance considerably. "The Vertec arrays provide extremely even coverage in terms of tone and timbre," Bailey explained. "In addition, system configuration and control via HiQnet is considerably easier, enables a more accurate result and is ultimately a system operator's dream come true."
HiQnet system configuration and control protocol enabled Bailey and the team at AVC to programme and commission the system quickly and effectively from a single screen with custom EQ panels for the array clusters and subwoofers. The system runs on a redundant CobraNet network with an analogue backup.
The new system also provides the concert hall with versatility. As a result of the upgrade, it now regularly hosts speeches, film premiers in surround technology and multimedia presentations. The entire project featuring audio, video projection and AMX control was designed and managed by local integration group Audio Video Consulting (AVC) based in Zagreb.
(Jim Evans)
