d&b takes up residence at Singapore National Stadium

Singapore:

The 55,000-capacity National Stadium at The Kallang is moving to a permanent house PA, with a d&b audiotechnik SL-Series system commissioned in May to support concerts, sport and other large-scale events.

The installation follows a partnership announced in March between d&b and The Kallang Group, the operator of Singapore’s sports and entertainment precinct. The flagship SL-Series was selected for its broadband directivity control and low-frequency cardioid behaviour, with the system designed to provide consistent coverage while limiting spill and reflections.

The stadium’s distinctive dome and variable configurations present particular challenges for venue-wide sound reinforcement. The installed system is intended to provide clear vocals, balanced sound and low-frequency performance across the seating bowl, while supporting different stage positions and concert layouts.

For promoters and touring productions, the permanent PA is intended to reduce the manpower and logistics associated with bringing in external systems, while allowing faster bump-in and bump-out. The Kallang also says the system can integrate with touring setups.

“As the live entertainment landscape in the region grows more competitive, we must continuously innovate to keep Singapore at the forefront of the global experience economy,” said Yazed Osman, group head, events and placemaking and place management of The Kallang Group. “With this audio system upgrade at the National Stadium, we help reduce the logistical friction for international promoters, while elevating the acoustic experience for fans. It reinforces our commitment to be the premier destination of choice for the most ambitious and iconic live experiences.”

The system has already been used for Singapore’s National Day Parade, where it was combined with additional performer audio systems for synchronised audio, music and pyrotechnic cues.

Live sound engineer Joe O'Herlihy, audio director and FOH engineer for U2, said: “The new system has changed the way an artist, a promoter, a management company or anybody will look at the National Stadium as a venue. It's a plug-and-play solution, with the advantage of being able to tap into a dedicated, sophisticated and top-of-the-range manufacturer sound system.”

Lead audio system engineer Ville Kauhanen added: “The upgrade really saves us money and time as we can incorporate the installed house system into our touring system. A good quality system like this helps us to improve the direct-to-reverberant ratio that enhances the experience.”