World-class 360-degree spatial audio sound system at City Recital Hall
Sydney’s City Recital Hall has installed a new world-class 360-degree spatial audio sound system, bringing performances to life in ways Australian audiences have not experienced before. City Recital Hall is one of the few venues globally, and the first commercial venue in Australia, capable of utilising this new and emerging technology.
360-degree audio, also known as spatial audio, is a technology that creates a three-dimensional sound experience for the listener. Instead of the traditional stereo audio that audiences know, 360-degree audio allows sound to be projected from any direction, including above and below the listener.
The result is an immersive audio experience that can make the listener feel like they are in the middle of the sound space, with different sounds coming from different directions.
The d&b audiotechnik SL stereo array at the heart of the new system is praised by the industry for its versatility and wide dynamic range, echoing the versatility of the venues performances. Emerging vocalist Nakhane and seminal electroclash artist Peaches were the first to use the brand-new stereo array, while hugely influential electronic music pioneers Monolake & Electric Indigo, the former a co-founder of Ableton Live, will be the first artists to showcase the new spatial system by placing and moving sound so as it unfolds before their audience, adding a whole new dimension in listening.
Nakhane performing at City Recital Hall
Line Array Image during Peaches
Stuart Rogers, Director of Programming at City Recital Hall, shares, “City Recital Hall was purpose-built for sound. The venue is already renowned as being one of the best sounding classical spaces in the world. This upgrade provides an amazing foundation for us to create elevated contemporary music experiences for local audiences through both considered and inclusive curation and cutting-edge production. As a curator, I’m driven to present artists who connect deeply with audiences, and I’ve seen or worked with each of the artists represented in our inaugural season. When it comes down to it, we’re connecting one of the world’s best stages with the world’s most compelling and charismatic performers. Alongside our new spatial audio system, we’ve created a perfect platform to present the widest possible range of artistry in its purest form. We can’t wait for you to experience it.”
City Recital Hall was the second purpose-built music venue in Sydney when it opened its doors in 1999. The venue is operated by City Recital Hall Limited that was established in 2015 as a not-for-profit company to create exceptional music experiences.
The sound system upgrade is part of a capital renewal project in partnership with the City of Sydney to bring new life, functionality, and accessibility into the venue. These works will encompass the full renovation of the foyers, auditorium seating and a range of technical updates. City Recital Hall Limited is also expanding our production capabilities to support the audio upgrade including an extensive investment in performance lighting.
The renewal will ensure City Recital Hall can continue to deliver unmissable contemporary and classical music programming, with elevated audience experiences, and world-class acoustic for years to come.