Holland's Newest Rising Star Vocalist Chooses Lectrosonics

	Photo: Barbara Straathof

Singer Barbara Straathof is enjoying unexpected success after her exposure in season three of the TV show The Voice Of Holland. It was the third season of the Dutch reality singing competition, created by media tycoon John de Mol, and the first sophomore season ever of the show's format. After rising demand for her appearances following her participation on the show, Straathof's first professional decision was to choose a microphone system for her rapidly building live schedule.

Straathof explained her choice of microphone: "For my live work, I decided to do a test with three different microphones. I promised my engineer that I would come and check out this system he loved but I told him that I had my mind set on a different brand. Still, I went along with his request and tested the mic system he recommended which was the Lectrosonics HH digital hybrid wireless transmitter. I couldn't believe the difference. It was crazy, every note I sang, a clear copy of that note came back to me. Pure, clear, warm, and so vivid! Again, I could not believe that the Lectrosonics HH was so different from the other systems! So, I ordered a new mic with receiver, and the guys from Heuff built me a super cool flight-case for the receiver and the in-ear transmitter. I couldn't be happier!"

Straathof's system was specified by Bram van der Mooren of Dutch audio specialists Heuff and consists of a Lectrosonics R400A UHF digital diversity rack-mount receiver with a HH/E01digital hybrid wireless handheld transmitter and HHC cardioid condenser capsule. Lectrosonics' digital hybrid wireless is a design that combines digital audio with an analog FM radio link to provide both outstanding audio quality and exemplary, noise-free RF performance. It eliminates compandor artifacts and produces an audio frequency response flat to 20kHz.

Straathof was a television production manager working behind the scenes when she was discovered by colleagues who entered her for the iconic show. At the blind audition all chairs turned, and from that moment Straathof gave up her job and became a professional singer. Almost 20 months later, her first album is in the can, having been recorded with the Dutch Metropole Orchestra, one of the best rhythm sections in Holland and arranged by producer/arranger Chris Elliott, known for his work with Adele's albums; 19 and 21. For Straathof it was a dream come true.

Straathof 's first single came out on July 21st and the album, entitled Nothing but Love, will be released in September.