HISTORY
HISTORY
The PA system was built by DO for the Commonwealth Games in 1974. That PA formed the basis for concert production from then on. Added to over the years with a large amount of speakers and amplifiers, everything built in-house.
During the off season BSS also installed permanent sound systems, the largest being the sound system for the Michael Fowler Centre in Wellington, this was done before computers so all the drawings and design were by hand.
BSS also used for the first in NZ a flown PA system for Neil Sedaka Auckland gigs in 1980s. David Bowies record breaking concert Western Springs concert in 1983 used BSS PA. Eventually by the millennium permanent installations surpassed PA rental.
Credit: AudioCulture
1963
Parent company incorporated
Viking Records acquires Mascot Recording, incorporating it as Viking Recording Studios Limited, with Bruce Barton as technical chief.
1966
Bartons Sound Systems is born
When Viking Records closes the studio, Bruce Barton moves his equipment to a premises that is home to a public address (PA) company.
Bruce recruits engineer David Ormerod, and when David later acquires the PA company, it is renamed Bartons Sound Systems Ltd.
Bruce Barton
Credit: Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 1528-74003
1974
First foray into outdoor arena sound rental
David Ormerod builds a PA system for the Commonwealth Games, which then forms the basis for Bartons' concert production.
Gradually the system is expanded with a large number of speakers and amplifiers, with everything built in-house.
1978
Nambassa and other outdoor festivals
Bartons becomes the key provider for the festival and concert market, with successive generations of JBL driven concert PA systems supplied and toured throughout NZ. Check out the Tour List printed in 1990!
Robert Waddell (R)
Credit: Warren and Mahoney
1980
Installations begin
During the festival off-season, Bartons begins installing permanent indoor sound systems. The largest of which being the sound system designed by Larry Elliot | Marshall Day Acoustics for the Michael Fowler Centre in Wellington.
1987
A new approach to concert audio
Bartons pioneers the use of suspended speaker arrays at Mt Smart Stadium for the Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton concert, improving sightlines and freeing up additional seating. The approach sets a new standard for large-scale concert audio in New Zealand.
Credit: Bartons Sound Systems
Credit: New Zealand Olympic Committee
1990
Outdoor stadium builds
A sound system is designed and installed at Mt Smart Stadium for the Commonwealth Games in collaboration with Larry Elliot | Marshall Day Acoustics. Logan Brewer Design creates the opening ceremonies' portable elements.
1995
Auckland Airport goes digital
Bartons first project at Auckland International Airport involves Terminal Expansion Stage II, delivering a new check-in area and installing an Altec Lansing ‘AMSYS’ microprocessor controlled paging system.
2003
Waitematā Station (Britomart) gets combined Public Address / Voice Alarm
Bartons designs and builds the stations public address and voice alarm system. The installation provides clear announcements, emergency evacuation messages and alarms, intercoms, public help points, and full operation during power outages - setting a new benchmark for safety and communication in New Zealand transport.
2008
Large networked audio systems
In collaboration with ICE Design Australia, Bartons designs and builds the New Zealand Parliament Debating Chamber audio system. This system features dozens of low-latency networked devices.
Credit: Bartons Sound Systems
2011
Road tunnels and Joint Traffic Operations Centre
Bartons designs and builds audio systems for the Victoria Park Tunnel and the recently completed Johnstone's Hill Tunnel, with both configured to deliver safety and emergency announcements from a new Joint Traffic Operations Centre at Smales Farm, Takapuna
2015
Web-based audio systems
Bartons works with Auckland International Airport and Simpleway to deliver New Zealand's first multilingual automated passenger information system.
2017
Move to Westgate
Bartons moves from its long-time Newton base to a purpose-built 400sqm facility in Westgate.
2019
Ownership evolves
Adam and Julia join Tony and Robert in ownership, making Bartons a true family business with over 70 years of combined industry experience.
2021
Eden Park adopts networked audio
Bartons supplies and commissions a fully networked audio system at Eden Park. The project involves 80 channels of IP-based DSP and distribution, improving coverage and control for sports and events. This marks the first large-scale stadium audio-over-IP deployment in New Zealand.
2024
Infotainment - our first mobile app
Bartons delivers the onboard infotainment app and system for Great Journeys New Zealand trains, providing passengers with audio commentary, video, travel guides, and real-time journey information -integrating Kiwirail Wi-Fi and Passengera content management for an enhanced rail experience.
2026
One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha opens
Bartons leads the design and build of all public address and audiovisual systems at Christchurch's new multi-use arena, coordinating a project team including Futureworks and Showquip, with key audio equipment supplied by JBL Pro via JPro. The project stands as the company's largest to date — eight tonnes of audio equipment, 300 displays, and over three years in the making.
Credit: Warren and Mahoney