Ryōgoku Kokugikan, also known as Ryōgoku Sumo Hall and Kokugikan Arena, located in Tokyo and the only building in the country dedicated to sumo, Japan’s national sport, was recently outfitted with an upgraded sound reinforcement system incorporating Martin Audio WPS line arrays and supporting components.
With a seating capacity of 11,098, Ryōgoku Kokugikan also hosts various other events during periods when sumo is not being held, including wrestling, concerts and corporate events. In planning the system upgrade, Takahisa Ota of integration firm Audiobrains conducted a simulation using Martin Audio DISPLAY 3 modeling software, and found that the manufacturer’s WPS line array, with 80 cabinets in the correct configuration, would be the most well-suited option to accommodate the various events hosted in Kokugikan in terms of size, weight, clarity, and SPL. In addition to WPS, the system team added SXCF118 cardioid subwoofers to provide bass extension that had been requested.
The system also utilizes eight Martin Audio TORUS T1215 constant curvature loudspeakers (four pairs per side) for nearfill. By being directed downwards they are able to deliver sound without reflections to the VIP areas, where it had previously been difficult to achieve clarity due to the influence of the roof, suspended above the ring. No other satellite speakers are now required, and each pair can be used to control the SPL within its specific area as required.
Ota, who carried out the installation, made the necessary system adjustments to ensure coverage, consistency and control throughout the stadium, noting “In the vertical pattern I managed to maintain clarity at the rear while at the same time suppressing any reflections.”
