Immersive Audio Experiences Across Sentosa Island, Singapore
Three Landmark Projects
1. Island-Wide BGM Network Integration
Ten previously unconnected BGM sites across the Singaporean resort island of Sentosa have now been connected to a single playout server for the first time following the installation of a fibre-optic ring plus Digigram hardware and software. The project comes as part of a multi-phase plan to improve networking across the island and deliver centralised control. The solution connected key areas such as Wings of Time consourse, Merlion Plaza, the Sentosa Boardwalk, and Palawan Beach and more via a fibre-optic ring and IP audio endpoints.
AV Systems: Digigram Pyko-In and Pyko-Out IP audio interfaces, customised Digigram Audio Manager software
Sentosa’s Nicholas Tan
Benefits: Seamless seasonal scheduling, remote control, and reduced manpower
Highlights: Integration of legacy systems into a unified network, first of its kind for Sentosa’s outdoor music zones
The system also allows live announcements and monitoring, improving flexibility and efficiency across island-wide operations. The software was tailored to Sentosa’s unique seasonal and functional requirements in collaboration with Digigram Singapore. Prior to this upgrade, each location operated as a standalone system, developed independently over time with varying control technologies. Despite a consistent use of approximately 400 Bose Freespace 360P II 100V ground speakers across the island, each control room was unique. The new system enabled central content uploads and flexible scheduling — for example, switching to seasonal music like Christmas playlists without manual updates at each site, and automatically reverting to standard tracks after the season.
2. VivoCity Video Wall – Beam Steering Audio Upgrade
As part of Sentosa’s broader entertainment and visitor engagement offerings, the large-format video wall at VivoCity mall — a key gateway and transit hub for Sentosa — had long impressed visually, but the audio failed to match due to a challenging acoustic environment. The concourse, with its marble floors, high ceilings, and wide open layout, caused severe reverberation issues that rendered content difficult to hear.
A purpose-built audio solution was delivered as part of a broader renovation project. This included the integration of Fohhn Linea Focus LFI-220 beam steering column speakers on either side of the screen — Singapore’s first such installation — and a horizontally arranged array of four Fohhn XS-30 subwoofers placed directly beneath the screen.
Audio Solutions: Fohhn LFI-220 beam steering column speakers, Fohhn XS-30 subwoofers in horizontal array
Design Achievement: First implementation of beam steering in a Singapore retail environment
Results: Focused audio coverage within a defined listening zone, intelligible speech and full-bodied music with minimal spill; effective even in high-traffic mall settings
The horizontal subwoofer array proved highly effective at containing low-frequency energy within a targeted zone. Visitors inside the zone experienced thumping bass, while surrounding areas remained acoustically comfortable. This made the system ideal for maintaining ambience while delivering engaging audio content for mall-goers.
3. Animal & Bird Encounters Amphitheatre – Outdoor PA System Upgrade
Sentosa’s Animal & Bird Encounters show at the Palawan Amphitheatre required an upgraded PA system that could endure harsh weather and provide consistent, intelligible audio to support the daily live shows. With a seating capacity of 350 and exposure to Singapore’s tropical climate, the system had to be both powerful and durable.
The new solution included IP65-rated Fohhn AT-221W loudspeakers mounted under the roof apex, Fohhn LX-150 line source speakers positioned for side coverage, and two AS-31 subwoofers discreetly installed behind the stage. The entire system was powered and managed via Fohhn D-4.1200 and D-2.750 DSP amplifiers and controlled through an Allen & Heath Qu-16 digital mixer.
Audio Solutions:
Fohhn AT-221W weatherproof 2-way speakers
Fohhn LX-150 line source columns
Fohhn AS-31 15” subwoofers
Fohhn D-4.1200 and D-2.750 DSP amplifiers
Allen & Heath Qu-16 digital mixer
Results: Clear pre-show BGM, strong audience engagement during performances, and reliable cue delivery for trainers and animals
The improved audio clarity enhanced show performance and communication. Previously, cues were inaudible backstage; now, keepers and animals respond accurately to audio triggers. The new setup also draws greater attention from passersby, increasing overall attendance.
Project Timelines:
Island-Wide BGM Network Integration – Completed in 2014
VivoCity Video Wall – Completed in early 2015
Animal & Bird Encounters Amphitheatre – Completed in mid 2015
All three of the above projects were delivered and led by David Seow of Control Logic Systems (CLS), an independent AV distributor now part of Ideal Systems SEA. From centralised IP audio systems and subwoofer arrays to weather-resistant outdoor installations, David’s leadership and expertise ensured high-performance, reliable pro audio solutions tailored to each unique site. With CLS’s integration into Ideal SEA, this legacy continues as part of our commitment to delivering innovative AV excellence across the region.
Source: This case study is based on a feature originally published in Pro Audio Central (Sep 2014, June 2015) and Pro Audio Asia (March - April 2015) editions, now Pro AVL Asia.