Amadeus Acoustics improves the acoustics of the Tonhalle Düsseldorf, he “music planetarium”

Located on the banks of the Rhine, the Tonhalle Düsseldorf has been delighting audiences for almost a century. Originally built in 1926 like planetarium, It has long been transformed into one of the most beautiful concert halls in Germany. Now it faces the improvement of its acoustics for all types of concerts with the help of Amadeus Acoustics.

Its emblematic blue dome, now equipped with LEDs and a sophisticated lighting concept, creates a visual spectacle reminiscent of a starry sky, while its rich history as the home of the Düsseldorf Symphony Orchestra makes it a true “music planetarium”.

But even a venue with such prestige and beauty faced challenges.. In 2005, installed a electronic reverb system to optimize room acoustics for a wide range of performances. However, over time, technical problems began to compromise its performance. The Tonhalle needed a update that respects its unique architecture y, at the same time, will improve your sound for all types of concerts, from intimate vocal recitals to full orchestral works.

Amadeus Acoustics enters the scene. After extensive listening tests and demonstrations, Peutz Consult, the acoustic planners who had also worked on the original system, were convinced of the capabilities of Amadeus Acoustics. In parallel, Jürgen Meyer, of Kottke stage planning, reworked the existing electroacoustic infrastructure, redesigning the system based on the current room inventory and developing the technical specifications for the tender.

After a competitive process, Thomann commissioned Amadeus Acoustics to provide a solution that would bring room acoustics into the 21st century. The challenge was important. The dome and curved side walls of the Tonhalle, vestiges of its past as a planetarium, make sound reflections unpredictable. For a listening experience comparable to that of a more conventional music room, the team had to cCarefully monitor the first reflexes, while preserving the character and warmth of the room.

Plataforma ART

The system update was based on the plataforma ART de Amadeus Acoustics, hardware driven ART:Hub2 and using the module ART::AP (Active Acoustics Performance). Modular and scalable, Amadeus ART is a versatile multi-channel audio platform that enables dynamic management of active acoustics, surround sound and voice lift applications. As complete hardware ecosystem, software, services and content, Seamlessly integrates with third-party systems and existing room inventory. This included new power amplifiers and microphone preamplifiers, while preserving the existing stock of the Tonhalle of 64 microphones and 96 speakers, installing substitutions only when necessary. With the ART Performance package from Amadeus Acoustic, the premium configuration for larger rooms, the system offers precision, the flexibility and immersive quality that a world-class concert venue requires.

Los pre-adjusted Specially designed allow the Tonhalle to adapt to different performance needs as an orchestra, coro, sacred music, audio 3D (for immersive experiences).

Throughout the project, collaboration was key. Klaus-Hendrik Lorenz-Kierakiewitz y Martijn Vercammen, de Peutz Consult, deeply involved in both the original planning of 2005 like in this renovation, worked closely with Amadeus Acoustics and Thomann. The result exceeded expectations: a significant improvement over the old system that has transformed the acoustic landscape of the room.

Now, all Tonhalle concerts, from classical symphonies to jazz, pop and much more, benefit from precise acoustics, rica y flexible. The public enjoys clarity, depth and warmth in every note, while musicians enjoy the ability to hear and respond to each other with unparalleled precision. La Tonhalle it, one more time, a real “music planetarium”, where technology and art go hand in hand.