Daniel J SaitComprehensive audio solutions from JBL, Crown, BSS, Soundcraft and AKG provide powerful sound for Bahrain’s premier nightlife destination.
Arch Hotel Bahrain has partnered with Masterpiece LLC and HARMAN Professional Solutions to deploy a full-scale audio system, delivering immersive sound for the hotel’s latest club concept. The upgrade, designed to attract a younger demographic, draws on technologies from JBL, Crown, BSS, Soundcraft and AKG to create high-impact entertainment experiences.
As a leading player in Bahrain’s hospitality sector, Arch Hotel operates multiple properties across the region. When the brand sought to launch a new club tailored to next-generation travellers, reliability and sonic excellence were essential. Drawing from previous positive experiences with HARMAN solutions, senior sound engineer Ajeesh KP led the AV team in selecting a comprehensive range of HARMAN Professional products for the project.
“Based on my extensive experience with various brands, I can confidently say that my experience with HARMAN Professional audio products has been exceptional,” says Ajeesh. “This positive track record was a primary reason why, when our management planned to launch a new club in Bahrain, my first choice for audio solutions was HARMAN Professional.”
The system features 18 JBL SRX910LA line array elements supported by SRX910LA AF array frames, paired with 12 JBL SRX928S subwoofers for deep, club-ready low end. Smaller zones are served by JBL VRX932LAP loudspeakers and PRX912 monitors, alongside PRX918XLF subwoofers and Crown XTi 4002 amplifiers. Soundcraft’s Si Expression 1 console, dbx DriveRack PA2 and VENU360 processors, and a BSS BLU-100 DSP unit handle signal distribution and tuning, while AKG D5S microphones ensure reliable stage performance.
“Our primary goal was to create a pure club environment tailored to a younger demographic,” says Ajeesh. “We focused on achieving powerful, clear audio performance while keeping the sound system compact and efficient. We’re not aiming for bigger size, but for better impact.”
Each HARMAN Professional product was selected to address specific acoustic zones within the property. The JBL SRX900 Series provides clear coverage in the main club space, VRX models serve more intimate rooms, and PRX models handle side fill and on-stage monitoring. “Each model is performing exceptionally well in its respective area, consistently delivering quality beyond our expectations,” adds Ajeesh.
Acoustic design was a key focus, with Ajeesh and his team using JBL Performance Manager and JBL Venue Synthesis software to optimise the system and overcome architectural challenges. “We didn’t encounter significant difficulties because I personally handled the audio design and had robust tools at my disposal,” he explains.
The installation has also benefited from the support services provided by HARMAN distributor Masterpiece LLC. “The primary factors for selecting JBL, Crown and AKG were the exceptional quality of HARMAN Professional audio products and the outstanding after-sales support provided by Masterpiece,” says Ajeesh. “They have consistently delivered amazing sales and service support since 2019.”
Since opening, guest feedback has confirmed the success of the project. Visitors regularly praise the clarity, punch and immersive feel of the sound system. “The feedback we’ve received from our valuable customers has been absolutely amazing,” says Ajeesh. “They’ve commented that they haven’t experienced punchy sound quality like this in any other hotel in Bahrain. Due to this overwhelmingly positive feedback, our management is extremely satisfied with the decision to choose HARMAN Professional.”
By combining world-class audio technology with considered acoustic design, Arch Hotel Bahrain has positioned itself as a leader in hospitality entertainment and a destination for next-generation guests who value experience as much as service.
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