Recognised as one of the birthplaces of China’s industrial revolution, the ancient city of Wuxi now boasts one of the country’s major industrial parks in the Wuxi New District. The Jiangsu Province city is also home to current arts and cultural movements, and has recently opened the Wuxi Workers Cultural Palace – a US$350m complex housing a sports complex, activity centres and a 573-seat multi-purpose theatre.
The sound system installed in the new theatre was designed by theZhejiang Institute of Urban Investment & Development Co, and is based around Renkus-Heinz ST-Series Complex Conic loudspeaker systems with a 48-channel Yamaha PM5D digital mixing console at FOH and a 40-channel Midas Verona analogue desk handling monitors.
The LCR loudspeaker configuration features a pair of Renkus-Heinz STX7/64 dual three-way 12-inch loudspeakers in the centre, flanked by three STX7/94 boxes. Supplemental fill is provided by 12 TRX61 two-way systems, and low-frequency reinforcement is from a pair of DRS18-2B direct radiating subwoofers, ground stacked on either side of the stage. Performers onstage are served by a versatile monitoring system including six TRX121 12-inch two-way systems and four TRX151 15-inch two-way boxes. QSC amplification powers the system.
‘The theatre is used for a wide variety of programmes, from opera and ballet to musicals, symphony, and other performances,’ explains a spokesperson for CAH Professional Sound, the company providing the equipment for the project. ‘Versatility was a critical consideration in the audio system design, and the Renkus-Heinz loudspeakers deliver high performance, high reliability and excellent pattern control. Using a LCR configuration of ST-Series loudspeakers, it was possible to provide consistent coverage across the entire audience. The compact TR-Series cabinets covered a handful of shaded areas in front and upstairs on the balcony level.’
Since opening its doors, the Wuxi Cultural Palace Theater has hosted a regular schedule of performances and events. CAH’s spokesperson reports the venue has received praise for its sound from attendees and performers alike: ‘The Renkus-Heinz system has performed well beyond even the most optimistic expectations. The sound in the theatre is clear and articulate, with excellent fidelity to every seat in the house.’
