Bahrain - Arch Hotel Bahrain partnered with Masterpiece LLC and Harman Professional Solutions to deploy a full-scale audio system anchored by JBL, Crown, BSS, Soundcraft, and AKG technologies. The upgrade supports the hotel group’s latest club concept, designed to engage a younger demographic with immersive, high-impact sound.
As a prominent player in Bahrain’s hospitality sector, Arch Hotel operates multiple properties across the region. The AV team, led by senior sound engineer Ajeesh KP, selected a comprehensive range of Harman Professional products for the new space.
“Based on my extensive experience with various brands, I can confidently say that my experience with Harman Professional audio products has been exceptional,” said 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 configuration includes 18 JBL SRX910LA line array elements supported by SRX910LA AF array frames, paired with 12 JBL SRX928S subwoofers for deep, club-ready low end. In smaller zones, the team deployed JBL VRX932LAP loudspeakers and compact PRX912 monitors, along with PRX918XLF subwoofers and Crown XTi 4002 amplifiers to round out system power.
Soundcraft’s Si Expression 1 console, dbx DriveRack PA2 and VENU360 processors, and a BSS BLU-100 DSP unit were used to handle signal distribution and tuning, while AKG D5S microphones provide reliable stage performance.
“Our primary goal was to create a pure club environment tailored to a younger demographic,” said 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 product was selected with intention to address different acoustic zones and applications within the property. The JBL SRX900 Series delivered clear, controlled coverage in the main club space. JBL VRX models were used for more intimate rooms, while PRX models handled side-fill and on-stage monitoring with ease. “Each model is performing exceptionally well in its respective area, consistently delivering quality beyond our expectations,” added Ajeesh.
Although the hotel’s architecture presented some design challenges, Ajeesh and his team addressed acoustic considerations early in the project planning. The team leveraged JBL Performance Manager and JBL Venue Synthesis software to tune the system and overcome architectural constraints.
“We didn’t encounter significant difficulties in acoustics because I personally handled the audio design and had robust tools at my disposal,” Ajeesh explained. “With the help of the JBL Venue Synthesis and Performance applications, I was able to navigate the situation smoothly and achieve excellent results.”
Since opening the new club venue, guest feedback has confirmed the project’s success. Visitors regularly comment on the sound system’s clarity, punch and immersive feel.
“The feedback we've received has been absolutely amazing,” said 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.”