More than 80 Genelec Smart IP loudspeakers have been installed in the €85 million Raiffeisen Arena, in Linz, Austria, the new stadium of Linzer Athletik-Sport-Klub (LASK), one of the strongest football teams in the Austrian Bundesliga. Constructed as a UEFA Category 4 venue, it is among the largest and most modern sports facilities in Austria.
In total, eighty 4430 Smart IP loudspeakers power the fan zone, which features regional independent traders that serve food alongside the upside-down beer – a technique first seen at London’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The Genelec loudspeaker system is mainly distributed across the hospitality areas, plus the business club, restaurant , bakery and VIP boxes. They provide background music, as well as handling live acts and DJs.
Key players in the project were Saw IT Consulting, Genelec distributor Audio Pro, and local integration company Contech – who were responsible for the central distribution of all audio-visual equipment, as well as some of the stadium audio.
“Genelec was chosen for three main reasons,” said Friedrich Mühlböck, consultant, Saw IT Consulting. “Firstly, because of their undeniable quality thanks to their heritage as one of the most respected players in the studio market. Secondly, the option of IP was important, and thirdly the fact that the loudspeakers were active. The arena didn’t want to install any amplifiers, as this would have meant extra cabling and additional housing space for racks.”
He added: “Most of the Genelec loudspeakers are in the fan zone area, and we chose the Smart IP models because of their flexibility and ease-of-use – two things that are essential in a sports venue. They also slot in discreetly almost anywhere, so we could use them in most areas without the system looking too imposing.”
Additionally, four 4030 loudspeakers provide audio to the arena’s technician room. “The target was to have central, easy-to-handle control over all audio-visual outlets, especially in the hospitality sections of the stadium,” continued Mühlböck.
Raiffeisen occupies a 39,000 sq metre area and cost €85 million to build. With a new, modern infrastructure, Raiffeisen can host Champions League fixtures.
“Additionally, Raiffeisen Arena has a huge commitment to sustainability and Genelec’s green credentials are very impressive. The arena has been awarded with a Green Globe certification, which it achieved through its renewable energy – thanks to solar panels and smart waste and water management. Genelec’s commitment to sustainability across its products and company-wide practices really aligned with Raiffeisen’s ethos,” concluded Mühlböck.
The system is controlled by an Allen & Heath AHM-64 Matrix with a Dante V2 card and Allen & Heath System Manager software. Contech also configured a customised user control app via an iPad, which offers simple control across the venue.
