The sound of EM Acoustics fuses innovation and tradition

This fusion has been reflected in the update of the acoustics that has been carried out in the auditorium of the Glyndebourne Opera House with Reference Series solutions from EM Acoustics.

Set in the Sussex countryside, near Lewes (United Kingdom), the Glyndebourne Opera House is recognized for its commitment to excellence and innovation. The venue maintains a tradition of acoustic purity that defines the operatic experience. When it was decided to modernize the sound system of the auditorium, it was decided to EM Acoustics Reference Series.

The modernisation of Glyndebourne's public address system reflects the need to expand artistic possibilities, while preserving the integrity of traditional opera.

"When we started this project, We needed to find the right balance, and getting all stakeholders on board took time", Explains Jonathan Moss, Glyndebourne sound and video director. "It was important to respect and honor traditions, while making sure to choose a sound system capable of providing us with a sophisticated range of tools to respond to the demands of modern productions, both current and future".

Moss has worked with EM Acoustics products for over a decade in a variety of venues, and for him, the Reference Series It stands out for the clarity and transparency of its sound. “There is nothing else on the market that can compete with it. It is the only sound system that had a chance of convincing our customers”.

The choice of EM Acoustics was also influenced by the company's collaborative approach. “They are incredibly helpful, Practical and open to feedback”, Moss says. “With EM Acoustics, We have direct access to those who design the speakers, ensuring that the system meets our needs, sometimes quite specific”.

Once the decision has been made to opt for a complete EM Acoustics solution, Moss collaborated with his team to choose the right models. Conversations about free space focused on finding balance.

"We knew we didn't need the bigger boxes, But after much thought, We opted for the R12 because its frequency response is optimal and, therefore, we need less of the subwoofers", Moss says. "We have so much free space that we will rarely use the boxes so intensely, so the output is smooth, which contributes to a very natural sound".

The design of the Reference Series speakers also fits Glyndebourne's need for subtlety, integrating into the auditorium thanks to its slim design and matte finish.

The sound system has been designed to complement and take advantage of the acoustics of the venue. Includes six R12s and two R8, with two permanent R12s placed at the top of the stage for sound effects.

Two R10 and two E-215 are mounted on the balcony to create immersive sound effects, Leveraging room acoustics to maximize resonance.

Four R8s are hung in a circle on the ceiling, while four S-218 subwoofers are installed under the auditorium. A total of nine DQ20 amplifiers and a range of deployable speakers complete the infrastructure.

All the Return System is from EM Acoustics, allowing the orchestra to play on stage for the performers.

"What we have built in Glyndebourne may not be what you would expect from an auditorium system", Moss continues. "It's a complex room for a sound system, So we needed to be creative, but also keep the speakers as invisible as possible. We have taken advantage of the technology and shape of the hall to design a system that uses the acoustic principles of an opera house and gives it a modern touch.".

Sound system upgrade doesn't just bring creative flexibility, but also the advantage of increased operational efficiency, especially given Glyndebourne's busy schedule of rehearsals and performances. With only three or four orchestral rehearsals per production, The ability to react quickly to artistic needs is invaluable.

The project Moss and his team have undertaken proves that sound systems can improve, instead of compromising, This art form. The integration of EM Acoustics into Glyndebourne is an example of how innovation can coexist with tradition. By adopting the right technology and integrating it properly, The venue has expanded its creative tools and the scope of its productions.