Wharfedale Pro takes on the Alps at Lauberhorn Races

High in the Swiss Alps, the Lauberhorn Races turned to Wharfedale Pro XLA and WLA systems to keep announcements and music clear in tough winter conditions

Snow, speed and big crowds demand sound that can keep up. At this year’s Lauberhorn Races in Switzerland, Wharfedale Pro’s XLA and WLA line arrays were used to meet this demand. This system was supplied and deployed by Stagepro Technical Solutions SRL with support from Sacher Music to deliver clear announcements and controlled music across race and hospitality zones.

Given the harsh location of the event, the high altitude, sub-zero temperatures and wind exposure helped define the type of sound system selected for the Lauberhorn Races. With operating conditions between –15°C and –20°C and wind risk planning up to 150kph, the audio design prioritised intelligibility, stability and consistent coverage across multiple audience areas.

On the main slope, Wharfedale Pro XLA series arrays formed the core PA system, projecting race commentary and programme audio. The configuration was designed to maintain vocal clarity and tonal balance despite changing weather and wide listener distribution.

In the lower arena, pairs of WLA-112 clusters surrounded 1500 spectators, providing focused coverage for announcements and music while keeping levels controlled and even across the audience zone.

The VIP hospitality tent required a different approach. Here, a combination of flown XLA and WLA-112 elements were used around the main screen structure to achieve even coverage within the enclosed space. In turn, amplification across the site was handled by Wharfedale Pro DP-2200N and DP-4100N amplifiers.

Even as the event finished, transport and rigging logistics presented one last challenge, with subwoofers flown off the mountain by helicopter during the final build-down.

This latest installation adds to Wharfedale Pro’s growing list of live event successes – from alpine racecourses to large-scale street celebrations.

Find out more at wharfedale.co.uk