New Saracens home ground sports ‘concert standard’ audio

As part of a far-reaching refurbishment initiative, North London’s Allianz Park stadium – the new home to Saracens Rugby Club – has been equipped with a ‘concert standard’ audio system designed and installed by Richard Nowell of RNSS Ltd. Working with audio consultant Roger Lindsey, who was brought in by Saracens CEO Edward Griffiths, Nowell specified technology from a number of manufacturers, including a significant amount of EM Acoustics equipment for the new East stand.

A major part of the system concerned the internal spaces including the new east grandstand and three other stands, all of which now feature EM Acoustics loudspeaker systems. “We needed speakers for the interior spaces that would both look good and sound good,” says Nowell. “We auditioned a variety of suitable units with the client and EM Acoustics came out comfortably ahead on quality, whilst staying within our budget.”

Nowell specified a total of 54 EMS-81X small format full-range multipurpose loudspeakers, 34 of the slightly smaller EMS-61s and 15 EMS-112 passive subwoofers, which were modified to enable them to be flown. The systems served to equip several areas including the 105m long interior space under the East stand which serves as a match day bar, indoor athletics track and training area. There are also 17 corporate boxes equipped with multi-source audio and local level controls and four function rooms with the same capability, plus comprehensive full range audio playback from a variety of audio sources.

“EM Acoustics couldn’t have been more helpful in terms of a tight delivery timeline, custom finish and technical information,” says Nowell. “They met our budget requirements and the speakers were delivered on time and work perfectly for excellent results. The client is delighted.”