In collaboration with its partners, our department, Audio Professionell, has completed a project for the Tonhalle Düsseldorf that integrates state-of-the-art audio technology into a historic setting. The aim is to make every concert visit a unique sonic experience.
From Consultation to the Stage – That’s Thomann Audio Professionell
Our department for audio, video, lighting, and media technology was established in 1999 to offer our customers not only expert advice and product sales, but also support with installation and commissioning — whether in theatres, recording studios, or concert halls. Today, a team of 25 experienced professionals in planning and engineering delivers tailor-made complete solutions for complex projects in the fields of culture, broadcasting, events, and media.Their expertise has already been proven in high-profile projects for institutions such as the Saarbrücken State Theatre, the Bayreuther Festspiele, and one of Europe’s largest cultural centres, the Gasteig in Munich.
Sound Meets Culture in Major Project at the Tonhalle Düsseldorf
A recent highlight has just been completed in Düsseldorf. Where stars once seemed within reach, today stands one of the city’s architectural gems: the Tonhalle. Originally built as a planetarium, its domed structure has, for decades, served as one of Germany’s most prestigious concert halls. Each year, over 300,000 visitors attend more than 350 concerts here — from symphonic masterpieces and jazz to modern crossover projects. But what the audience doesn’t see — yet unmistakably hears — is the technical marvel hidden beneath the surface.
The Future of Immersive Sound Experiences
An acoustic environment that adapts flexibly to the needs of the musicians? One that supports the orchestra harmoniously, highlights the soloist with clarity, and still delivers goosebump moments all the way to the very last row, making you forget the world around you for a moment and fully immerse yourself in the music?
It may sound futuristic, but it’s now a reality. The standout feature of this project is the newly gained flexibility of the hall’s acoustics. Through targeted microphone placement and discreetly integrated loudspeaker systems, the reverberation in the hall can be adjusted in real time. A dry rehearsal space can instantly be transformed into a cathedral-like setting.
The result: outstanding sound quality for every concert format, across all genres, and from every seat in the house — whether the Düsseldorf Symphony Orchestra is performing a classical masterpiece or modern pop acts are taking the stage. And all of it is managed with just a few clicks via a central control system.
A Comprehensive Concept for Architecture, Acoustics, and Functionality
In close collaboration with the renowned planning firm BWKI and our longtime partners L-Acoustics, Amadeus and UNIVERSE, Audio Professionell implemented a sound system solution that sets new standards in audio quality.
Their responsibilities included, among others:
• The implementation of a flexible acoustic concept that adapts at the push of a button to different concert formats
• The development of a comprehensive audio-technical concept seamlessly integrated into the existing architecture
• System integration, commissioning, and training
Sound Quality for Powerful Emotions
For Audio Professionell, this project was special not only because of its size and acoustic complexity but above all because of the successful collaboration with the users and our long-standing partners. Together, they have demonstrated that tradition and technological progress do not exclude each other but rather enrich one another. The newly created infrastructure lays the foundation for unforgettable musical moments, goosebumps, and the shared experience of music.
Cover Image: Tomas Riehle
