Vienna State Opera’s Sound Designer Selects A Complete AKG Package To Provide Sophisticated Audio Transmissions For The Vienna Opernball

Showcasing the superior audio quality and sophistication of AKG microphones and wireless microphone systems, sound designer Professor Wolfgang Fritz recently outfitted the Vienna Opera House with a complete AKG package in preparation for Vienna’s Opernball. The package - which included the WMS4500 high-end wireless system, 19 bodypacks and various microphones - was used to support all live sound needs during the opulent promenade, and also drove the live recordings of the Opera Ball Orchestra to ensure clear, memorable reproductions. 

Vienna’s Opera Ball is widely considered to be one of Europe’s largest and most elegant social functions, and frequently attracts some of the world’s most accomplished musicians, politicians and celebrities. For the event, Fritz selected a 20-channel WMS4500 high end wireless system with 19 bodypacks and one handheld microphone, an HC577 headworn microphone with a unique CK77 capsule for the actors, two PT4500 with a CK77 microphone for a moveable piano, and one C414 and C391 microphone each used for the orchestra.

“After comparing the system’s requirements to our options for microphones, it was clear that AKG would be the perfect fit,” stated Fritz, sound designer for the Vienna State Opera, Bregenzer Festival, Mörbischer Festival and other classical events. “I use AKG equipment in every event where clarity, versatility, and precision are essential. They provide a level of price performance that is simply unrivaled by other brands.”

This year’s ball was held in the auditorium of the Vienna State Opera House. In preparation for the event, the auditorium was turned into a large ballroom overnight by removing the seats and installing a new floor that lined up flush with the stage. Fritz and his team then measured the audio acoustics while deciding the best equipment to use, ultimately selecting the AKG package for its ability to deliver clear, powerful sound at an affordable price.