K-array installed at ‘epicentre of global show jumping’

An international equestrian centre has installed a premium audio system using K-array products, as part of a multi-million euro development.

The system was put in place at the Stal Tops International Arena in the Netherlands that has been described as the epicenter of global horse racing and show jumping.

Twenty K-array 12in coaxial passive line array elements were partnered with two KMT21 subwoofers and powered by three KA84 amplifiers to compose the acoustics for the 80m-long South Tribune. The audio system for the North Tribune, which is 60m long, is comprised of sixteen KX12 units combined with two KMT21 subwoofers powered by two KA84 amplifiers. A Grass Arena, Sand Arena and training fields had a combined total of thirty one KK52 Kobra loudspeakers installed on outdoor light posts for a long throw.

A VIP tent was outfitted with four KR202 systems with four KMT21 bass elements while a VIP restaurant was equipped with twenty KV50 Vyper loudspeakers hidden in the window frames and five KU36 subwoofers plus sixteen KT2CB Tornados paired with six KU36 subwoofers built in the ceiling.

The all-encompassing system has received many compliments since it’s implementation in August. During the testing of the ground microphones, a lawn mower passed in front of the windows of the VIP building. With the Kobras hidden inside the window frames, everyone inside the stopped suddenly, surprised that they could hear the lawn mower so clearly and naturally, as if the windows were open.

The system again showed off its effect on the audience during the opening ceremonies of the Longines Global Champions Tour when 9-year old opera singer Amira Willighagen performed.

Amateur jockey and CNN equestrian sport journalist, Francesca Cumani, said: “That was unbelievable! The music filled the arena and you could honestly feel the energy of the performers.”