ISTANBUL, Turkey – The roar of the crowd fills soccer arenas around the world – but none as loudly, perhaps, as Galatasaray SK's new 52,650-capacity, multi-purpose Turk Telekom Arena, where an SPL of 131.76dB was recorded.
To overcome that challenge, audio designer Asimetrik designed a PA system that includes 46 weather-protected EAW MK series enclosures.
Construction firm Varyap-Uzunlar was awarded the building contract and appointed Makro-Safir to handle the electrical infrastructure. They in turn sub-contracted the AV portion to Asimetrik, EAW's Turkish distributor.
The original plan – to take the sound system from the old arena and re-install it at Türk Telekom Arena – was quickly abandoned. Asimetrik reasoned that the old stadium was only half the size of Galatasaray's new home, and that in addition to a stronger PA system, they would need an infrastructure suitable for broadcast and an evacuation system that would also meet international standards.
Asimetrik project coordinator Kadir Ulusoy provided his design, supported by EASE acoustic calculations, to the stadium's architectural and design team.
Although UEFA regulations require the sound system for the stadium needed to generate an SPL of 105dB, the Asimetrik-designed system can reach 140dB, and has ample headroom for future expansion. The system includes MK 5366WP (60° x 60°), MK 5364WP (60° x 45°), and MK 5396WP (90° x 60°) dispersion patterns. The 46 EAW speakers are arranged in pairs around the perimeter of the stands.
Along with soccer, the stadium is used for music events, including a concert by Bon Jovi set for July 8.
EAW systems have also been designed for other large venues including Wembley Stadium and Twickenham Stadium, (London), San Siro Stadium (Milan), Estádio da Luz (Lisbon), Grasshoppers Stadium (Zürich) and Nou Camp (Barcelona).
For more information, please visit www.eaw.com.
