Nouvelles Crown

Crown Introduces ComTech D Series Power Sharing Amplifiers with DSP and Dante

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000

INFOCOMM 2025 (Booth #5945) - ORLANDO — HARMAN Professional Solutions, the global leader in audio, video, control, and lighting systems, today launched the Crown ComTech D Series, a new line of power sharing amplifiers designed to meet the changing demands of diverse, installed audio applications. With Dante inputs and outputs, built-in DSP, Lo-Z/Hi-Z switching, and a simple to use web configuration interface, the ComTech D Series sets the benchmark for intelligent performance in compact, installation-friendly designs.

Available in 2-, 4-, and 8-channel configurations, each model can deliver 125W per channel of legendary Crown amplification when all channels are driven equally. Power sharing enables individual output channels to scale up or down in power, distributing the total output power of the amplifier to meet the needs of the attached speakers for unparalleled flexibility.

Built-in DSP allows outputs to be tuned specifically for every application and provides the ability to create custom speaker tunings. Factory JBL SpeakerTunings for select JBL models, including Control 400 Series ceiling speakers, are included to simplify the optimization of an all-HARMAN solution.

ComTech D amplifiers include a suite of monitoring tools including a source priority mixer, input pilot tone monitoring, and output load monitoring to help maintain line integrity. The GPO provides a dedicated contact closure to monitor these tools as well as amplifier health and power status.

Configuration is seamless using the intuitive web interface with any computer or tablet and without the need to install proprietary software. HARMAN’s AVX Manager enables even large installations to be managed and monitored from a single interface. Additionally, ComTech D models use HARMAN's HControl protocol to communicate natively with BSS OMNI Processors or AMX MUSE Automation Controllers and include an easy-to-use API for integration with 3rd-party control systems.

Additionally, multiple GPI ports are included to provide volume control, mute functions, source selection, and more with accessory user interfaces such as the BSS Contrio AC-V or AC-5S controller. The 2- and 4-channel models are compact 1RU, ½ rack width devices with flexible mounting options, while the 8-channel model requires only 1RU of space.

Designed for venues such as restaurants, retail spaces, and corporate meeting rooms or for segments of larger multizone applications such as casinos, hotels, and resorts, the ComTech D Series combines easy configuration, efficient management, and exceptional adaptability.

"The ComTech D Series was born from listening—taking critically valuable feedback from our users and partners to inspire a fresh approach to an all-new lineup of compact, power sharing amps,” said Gar Lap Tsoi, Senior Product Manager for Installed Audio, HARMAN Professional Solutions. “Our discussions shared that users wanted the rock-solid reliability they know and trust from Crown but in an amp that can be easily transformed into whatever configuration you need it to be, as often as your needs change. These amps redefine versatility pure and simple. Built on iconic Crown heritage and supercharged with cutting-edge design innovations, they deliver a truly unique, nothing-else-like-it experience. We can’t wait to see the incredible projects and applications you’ll create with them."

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS:

FLEXIBLE POWER SHARING - Power sharing enables individual output channels to scale up or down in power, distributing the total output power of the amplifier to meet the needs of the attached loudspeakers. Outputs on the 2-channel model share 250W and 500W is shared between each set of 4 channels on the 4- and 8-channel models, for unparalleled flexibility. 4/8 ohm and 70/100V outputs are supported in any configuration.
BUILT-IN DSP - Built-in DSP allows outputs to be tuned specifically for every application and provides the ability to create custom speaker tunings. Factory JBL SpeakerTunings for select JBL models, including Control 400 Series ceiling speakers, are included to simplify the optimization of an all-HARMAN solution.
DANTE SPOKEN HERE - ComTech D Series amplifiers support redundant Dante configurations and feature multiple Dante inputs and outputs. The Dante output signals can be chosen directly from a pre-processed analog input, a pre-speaker tuned signal, or a post-speaker tuned signal.
SIMPLE CONFIGURATION & MANAGMENT - The WebUI control interface enables easy setup without additional software. Accessible via any web browser, it delivers an intuitive configuration experience. AVX Manager enables even large installations to be managed and monitored from a single interface.
COMPACT DESIGN - 2 and 4 channel models are housed in a 1RU, ½ rack width chassis and can be mounted in a rack, under a table, or on a wall using the included mounting hardware. The 8 channel model features a 1RU chassis with fixed rack mounts.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS AND SPECIFICATIONS:

HARMAN Becomes NASCAR® Technology Partner to Enhance Audio Experience for Racing Fans

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

NORTHRIDGE, Calif. — HARMAN International anounced today that it has become a NASCAR Technology Partner aimed at delivering premium audio experiences for racing fans through future racetrack audio upgrades. This partnership enables NASCAR to design and implement high-quality integrated audio systems using HARMAN Professional Solutions brands, including JBL Professional loudspeakers, Crown amplifiers, BSS digital signal processing, and more.

HARMAN Professional is a global leader in developing advanced audio systems for large-scale venues, with solutions deployed in stadiums, arenas, music festivals, theme parks, and performing arts centers worldwide. Through this technology partnership, HARMAN’s expertise and product offerings will help elevate sound quality for race fans across NASCAR’s racetrack properties as upgrades are required at any one of the 14 NASCAR-owned venues. In addition to the primary exterior racetrack areas, NASCAR venues feature numerous interior spaces where intelligibility and high-quality audio is essential for announcements, broadcast coverage, and music.

“JBL and NASCAR are two iconic brands that were founded just two years apart in the 1940s, and will now work together to enhance one of the most thrilling and widely attended sports in the world,” said Brian Divine, President of HARMAN Professional Solutions. “On any given day, thousands of fans around the world experience audio through a JBL system, and we are excited to collaborate with NASCAR through this technology partnership to bring them even closer to the action through superior sound.”

Founded in 1948, NASCAR is the premier sanctioning body of stock car racing in North America and operates 14 racetrack properties, including Daytona International Speedway, Talladega Superspeedway, Michigan International Speedway, Phoenix Raceway, and others.

“With millions of fans attending NASCAR events in person each year—and millions more watching on TV—our races demand the highest levels of performance and reliability from all technical systems,” said John Martin, Vice President, Chief Technology Officer at NASCAR. “Not all suppliers can meet NASCAR’s rigorous standards, but HARMAN’s brands have a proven legacy of innovation, exceptional sound reproduction, and day-in, day-out reliability, making their products an ideal fit for our venues.”

Further details on the partnership and specific audio integrations will be announced as the 2025 season progresses.

Crypto.com Arena Upgrades JBL Sound System for Venue’s Renovation

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 09:00:00 +0000

LOS ANGELES — Crypto.com Arena is not simply one of the top sports and entertainment venues in the US, it is one of the best known throughout the world. As the home of the NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers, NHL’s LA Kings, and WNBA LA Sparks, sporting events are a constant, something that will get even more focus in 2028 when the arena hosts men’s and women’s gymnastics competition for the upcoming 2028 Olympic and Paralympic games. But Crypto.com Arena is also the home of the most popular music concerts and a multitude of other special events, including the annual GRAMMY Awards. The arena’s seating capacity of 20,000 (depending on the event), puts Crypto.com Arena above the average size for its class. It’s big and it’s busy.

Opened in 1999 as STAPLES Center, the flagship venue of AEG is the anchor of the L.A. LIVE sports and entertainment district in downtown Los Angeles residing adjacent to the Los Angeles Convention Center. Shortly after changing its name to Crypto.com Arena in late 2021, AEG embarked on a three-year major renovation to every public facing element of the venue, including a complete upgrade of its JBL loudspeaker system.

“Everything, top to bottom, is getting made over: private spaces, premium offerings, public areas, concessions, locker rooms, our scoreboards and video screens with an emphasis on our technology,” explains Armen Dembekjian, the arena’s Senior Vice President for Projects & Event Productions. “There’s something for everyone.”

JBL’s newest-generation VTX A-Series loudspeakers replaced the JBL VerTec^® Series system installed more than a decade earlier. But the venue went considerably further in improving audience experience by adding upgraded and additional speakers to cover the top of the arena’s bowl.

The new system was the result of tight collaboration between HARMAN Professional and consulting firm Anthony James Partners (AJP) for its design, and HARMAN, AJP, and 3G Productions for its installation. “We did a very similar design to what was in the arena previously,” reports Jack Covert, AJP’s Vice President of Audio Engineering. This allowed cost and structural work to be reduced by reusing rigging points and infrastructure originally installed for the VerTec system.”

The main system consists of 120 VTX A12 Dual 12-inch Line Array Loudspeakers, powered by Crown I-Tech 4x3500HD four-channel amplifiers. VLF content is supplied by 36 VTX B28 Arrayable Dual-18-inch Subwoofers driven by 18 Crown I-Tech 12000HD two-channel amplifiers. Speaker tuning and optimization are performed by DSP onboard the Crown amplifiers.

“A big change was the upper balcony system that had not existed before,” Covert reveals. “I went to an NBA game prior to designing the system and the place was jumping, but I went on the upper bowl and it was quiet up there. We put in a nice delay ring using JBL Precision Directivity boxes and it really made a big difference. We made sure the folks sitting in that area were getting their money’s worth.” Covert’s design used 36 JBL PD6322/95-FRP Dual 12-inch 3-Way Horn-Loaded Speakers powered by more I-Tech 4x3500HD amps.

The renovation is a massive project encompassing every part of the building and all of its amenities and facilities. One might think spreading a multi-year renovation would mean it could take place at a measured pace, but in fact, the biggest obstacle facing the system install was the arena’s jam-packed schedule of events, since Crypto.com Arena is the region’s most popular sports and entertainment destination, hosting more than 200 events annually. “One of the most interesting and significant aspects of the job was its constraints,” muses Jerrod Cring, Director of Systems Integration at 3G. “There was no scenario in which the arena could shut down for a month or even a week to facilitate a full-scale integration of the new sound system. So, everybody knew going into the project that working around the arena schedule was a prerequisite, and that we were all going to have to partner and collaborate to do it.”

Cring points out that, even with strong cooperation between all of the project’s contractors, the time crunch heightened the impact of dependencies. “There was electrical work that had to be done, there was low voltage work that had to be done, there was structural work that had to be done to support amp racks in the catwalks,” he lists off.

And then there was the biggest hurdle of all: availability of the equipment. As the renovation got underway the audio industry was still in the throes of supply chain delays caused by COVID, but JBL was able to deliver.

To thread this complicated needle, 3G drew on their production company roots and extensive experience working in the building on numerous concerts by touring music artists. Wiring harnesses and racks prepped at the company’s Las Vegas headquarters were transported to their LA office so they could be quickly loaded onto a truck, taken to the venue, and installed on short notice. “Going in and hanging a PA in the round in a couple of days, I mean, that's not an event for us, that's just your typical Wednesday,” chuckles Cring.

The ramifications of Crypto.com Arena’s packed schedule were further accommodated by one other difference between the VTX and VerTec systems. “From a maintenance perspective, if an amp went down in the old system, we had to lower the entire speaker cluster to access that one amp and fix it,” Dembekjian relates. “But there are periods where we're going from event to event to event to event, and there's no time to bring that array down. We want to be 100% operational safe at all times, not 97 or 93 or 90 percent.”

The issue cropped up because the old system employed an onboard amplification option, but VTX speakers are purely externally powered. “So AJP’s proposal changed the onboard amps being piggybacked on the speakers in the VerTec system to putting amps in racks on a catwalk. If an amp goes out, we can just go and troubleshoot or replace it without needing to wait for a day when the arena is dark to lower the cluster.” The substantial extra weight of these racks necessitated the structural work to the catwalk mentioned by Cring.

External powering also meant that, instead of running power and signal cables to the clusters it was now necessary to run loudspeaker cables. Again, the earlier install was able to be repurposed. “The challenge there was how to change to that heavier loudspeaker cable; there's a lot more copper involved, compared to just the power for the amplifiers going up and down,” details Covert. “It turned out that the existing cable catch structure that the line arrays were suspended from was able to be reused. Not only did that work really well for the cable management, but it also brought some cost savings because it had been built right the first time.”

All hurdles overcome, the fully installed system successfully debuted at an NHL preseason game between the LA Kings and the Anaheim Ducks. “As big and important a venue as Crypto.com is, it was daunting when the project first landed on my desk,” Covert admits. “But all of the people involved pulled together as a good, solid team. Armen was on top of everything; he was one of the nicest and most knowledgeable people I’ve ever worked with in an arena like this, and the guys at 3G showed their stuff and did a good job on the integration side. Once we dug in and started working on it, it really, really came together and was a smooth process.”

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ABOUT Crypto.com Arena

Crypto.com Arena has undoubtedly developed an unrivaled reputation for excellence, having established itself as one of the world’s busiest and most successful venues in the world. Since opening on October 17, 1999, with Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, millions of guests have come to the AEG-owned and operated Crypto.com Arena to attend a schedule of prestigious concerts, sporting events, award shows, family shows and other major attractions unmatched by any arena.

As the home of three professional sports franchises – the NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers, the NHL’s LA Kings and the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks – Crypto.com Arena has proven to be a home court advantage for the local teams. The AEG owned and operated arena continues to distinguish itself as the host of major, high-profile events of national and international distinction including the 2004, 2011 & 2018 NBA All-Star Games, 2002 & 2017 NHL All-Star Games, 2000 Democratic National Convention, 2009 World Figure Skating Championships and 21 GRAMMY Awards shows.

For a quarter of a century, Crypto.com Arena has been marked with performances and special events that brought international stature to the downtown Los Angeles venue including concerts headlined by Taylor Swift, Bad Bunny, Drake, Beyoncé, Prince, U2, Paul McCartney, Garth Brooks, Usher, Jay-Z, Keith Urban, Roger Waters, Tool, Katy Perry, Ed Sheeran, Kendrick Lamar, Michael Bublé, Carrie Underwood and Justin Timberlake, as well as world championship boxing, family shows and other live events.

Hosting 200+ events annually, the arena has earned a reputation for world-class amenities, features, and honored its commitment to quality of service and provides a guest experience that is second to none. That includes comfortable seating, state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, concession stands offering a variety of food and beverage options, and merchandise stores where fans can purchase team-branded clothing, accessories and memorabilia. Crypto.com Arena is not only a great venue for sports and entertainment, but it also holds a special place in the hearts of the local community. The arena has witnessed many historic moments, unforgettable performances, and become an iconic landmark in the region for the most popular and important events.

About Anthony James Partners

Anthony James Partners (AJP) is an industry-leading Technology Consultant specializing in the design and implementation of large-scale technology solutions. AJP collaborates with top professional sports teams, colleges/universities, and facility managers across North America and Europe. Key services include facility audit, strategic planning, design, financial modeling, procurement, and construction oversight. Technology disciplines include LED Displays, broadcast, audio, network, infrastructure cabling, DAS/Wi-Fi, event and specialty show lighting, digital signage, and more. To learn more, visit anthonyjamespartners.com, or connect with AJP on Twitter and LinkedIn.

About 3G Productions

Headquartered in Las Vegas, with full operations in Los Angeles, 3G Productions is the premier full service live event and integration company on the West Coast. From major touring productions to world-renowned festivals, 3G specializes in providing its best-in-class audio, lighting, video, and rigging equipment to bring breathtaking experiences to guests. It's in-house design and integration team specializes in installing A/V equipment in arenas, theaters, and stadiums across the country. To learn more about 3G, please visit 3GLP.com.

ABOUT HARMAN Professional Solutions

HARMAN Professional Solutions (pro.harman.com) engineers and manufactures audio, lighting, and video and control products for entertainment and enterprise markets, including live performance, audio production, large venue, cinema, retail, corporate, education, government, hospitality, broadcast and more. With leading brands including JBL Professional®, AKG®, Martin®, AMX®, Soundcraft®, BSS Audio®, Crown®, dbx Professional®, and Lexicon Pro®, HARMAN Professional delivers powerful, innovative and reliable solutions that are designed for world-class performance. HARMAN Professional Solutions is a Strategic Business Unit of HARMAN International, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

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HARMAN Professional Solutions nomme Algam Ibérica comme partenaire de distribution officiel en Espagne

Mon, 20 May 2024 09:00:00 +0000

LONDON—HARMAN Professional Solutions, the global leader in audio, lighting, and video and control technologies, today announced a new partnership with Algam Ibérica for audio and video control product distribution in Spain. The distributor will take responsibility for branded products including AMX, JBL Professional, Crown, Soundcraft, BSS, Lexicon, and dbx.

Starting 1 July 2024, the new partnership between Algam Ibérica and HARMAN Professional will represent both companies’ shared mission of providing industry-leading audio solutions to more customers in Spain. Algam Ibérica will have full access to all HARMAN Professional audio and video control brands in the region while also providing product service, including AKG, distributed by Music Distribución.

Algam Ibérica was selected because it possesses the necessary mind-set and drive to deliver premium service and top-tier expertise on HARMAN Professional products to Spanish customers that include audio engineers, production houses, and integrators. This collaboration marks a significant stride in advancing HARMAN's objective to extend its reach to an unprecedented number of customers while delivering unparalleled audio and video control solutions.

“Algam has a long and proud history of providing high quality products and service to our customers, and our partnership with HARMAN Professional is a natural extension of that mission,” said Benjamin Garnier, Managing Director, Algam. “We are thrilled to offer a wide range of premium HARMAN Professional’s audio and video control solutions to the Spanish market and look forward to working closely with the HARMAN team to do so.”

HARMAN Professional will continue to build, strengthen, and solidify its new partnership with Algam Ibérica as it continues to further develop its presence in the Spanish market.

“We are excited to announce the expansion of our collaboration with Algam Ibérica as our audio, video & control distributor for the HARMAN Professional portfolio that include many of our iconic brands in Spain,” said Hamid Soufian, Vice President and General Manager, EMEA, HARMAN Professional. “Algam Ibérica consistently demonstrates outstanding performance for the customers they serve, making us confident in their ability to further enhance our portfolio. We eagerly anticipate the opportunities this expanded partnership will bring.”

JBL Professional enrichit les célébrations des « International Four Days Marches Nijmegen » avec des expériences sonores immersives

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 09:00:00 +0000

NIJMEGEN, Netherlands—Michael Story of Story Sound recently powered a full week of live music and celebrations at the International Four Days Marches Nijmegen with eight stages’ worth of JBL Professional live sound reinforcement systems, with additional support from distributor Audio XL.

An annual tradition with roots stretching back to 1909, the International Four Days Marches Nijmegen (Internationale Vierdaagse Afstandsmarsen Nijmegen in Dutch) is the largest multi-day marching event in the world with more than 40,000 participants. Organized in the Dutch city of Nijmegen since 1925, the event draws thousands of participants who walk 25 miles over the course of four days in July. In the evenings after the marches, there are numerous parties with more than 40 pop-up stages showcasing live music and entertainment throughout the city along the path of the march.

In order to provide top-notch audio experiences for the marchers and partygoers while minimizing the SPL impact on the nearby neighborhoods, Dutch live sound provider Story Sound was hired to design and deploy sound systems for several stages during the event. Story Sound owner and operator Michael Story once again supplied multiple capable rigs consisting of JBL Professional VTX Series and VRX Series loudspeakers and subwoofers, delivering immersive and exciting audio quality in the stage area while containing the noise pollution to the satisfaction of the authorities and stage sponsors alike. European HARMAN provider Audio XL also supplied a new JBL SRX Series system for Michael Story to audition in the Dutch live entertainment market.

"The International Four Days Marches Nijmegen has seen remarkable growth,” said Story. “This year alone, we were entrusted with the audio arrangements for eight outdoor stages. Our longstanding partnership with JBL has been pivotal in this journey, as the quality and reliability of JBL speakers consistently meet and exceed our customers’ expectations. The seamless integration of JBL VTX A Series and the deployment of the new SRX 900 line array have not only showcased innovation but have also provided an unparalleled audio experience.”

Story Sound provided eight different stages with systems that delivered exciting audio quality while also meeting the stringent noise control requirements set by authorities and sponsors. The precision and clarity of JBL VTX Series and SRX Series loudspeakers and subwoofers not only immersed participants in a world of dynamic sound but also successfully minimized the impact of sound pressure levels (SPL) on nearby neighborhoods.

“To do my job, I need my tools,” said Story. “When someone asks what I’m bringing, I tell them not to worry, I’m bringing the best gear they have ever heard. And when they hear it, they’re convinced. I’m not a magician. I need good tools. Otherwise I can’t provide good sound. That’s JBL for me. We work really hard to make the customers happy with the impact and the authorities happy with the noise level. The VTX A Series gives us the tools we need to give them a really nice sound experience. Everybody was happy, so it was a good job for us.”

The power-to-size ratio of JBL speakers, exemplified by the A12 and A8 models, not only delivers outstanding sound quality across various music genres but also streamlines the labor-intensive process of event setup. Story Sound emphasized the significant cost-saving benefits of utilizing JBL equipment, especially with the latest generation's intelligent rigging and quick setup capabilities. Michael Story, having used JBL since 1996, praised the ease of deployment and the reduction in required manpower as key advantages.

“Apart from the fantastic sound quality, JBL's latest gear is a game-changer when it comes to setting up events,” said Story. “With JBL's current generation of line arrays, setting up is quick and easy. You don't need a small army to get things going. The gear is compact, the setup is smooth and it saves us a ton on labor costs. JBL isn't just about killer sound; it's about making events easier and more efficient.”

Halwani Audio Visual (HAV) Unveils First-Ever HARMAN Professional Experience Centre in KSA

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 09:00:00 +0000

JEDDAH, KSA - Halwani Audio Visual (HAV), a premier provider of cutting-edge AV event and brand solutions in Saudi Arabia, and HARMAN Professional Solutions proudly announces the grand opening of the inaugural HAV/HARMAN Experience Centre in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This collaboration between HAV and HARMAN Professional marks a significant milestone in enhancing customer experience and expanding operations within the region.

The Jeddah location joins a prestigious network of HARMAN Professional's global experience centres situated in key international hubs such as Los Angeles, London, Singapore, Shanghai, along with other distributor-led experience centres in separate regions worldwide. Additionally, HAV's decision to also relocate its headquarters to this dynamic new space underscores its commitment to delivering unparalleled service to clients.

As a partner of HARMAN Professional audio brands, including JBL Professional, Crown, BSS, Soundcraft, AKG, and dbx, HAV's state-of-the-art 1,800 sqm (19,000 sqf) facility will serve as a premier showcase for audio solutions tailored to both entertainment and enterprise markets. From live touring to installed and recording audio, visitors can immerse themselves in settings that highlight the versatility and excellence of HARMAN's industry-leading products.

"The opening of the new HAV/HARMAN Experience Centre represents a significant investment in our Saudi operations and marks a pivotal shift in how we engage and support our valued customers,” said Bassam Halwani, CEO of Halwani Audio Visual. “This immersive environment will offer a comprehensive showcase of HARMAN's industry leading applications, empowering visitors to explore diverse scenarios and gain invaluable insights into our audio solutions."

Hamid Soufian, Vice President and General Manager, EMEA, HARMAN Professional Solutions, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the strategic importance of HAV's role in advancing business growth within the KSA. "HAV's longstanding HARMAN partnership and expertise have been instrumental in our success, and the launch of this experience centre signifies an exciting opportunity to deepen customer engagement and drive AV solution modernization throughout the region.

In addition to its showcase of innovative audio solutions, the new experience centre will host regular training sessions tailored for clients, consultants, and integrators. These sessions aim to enhance technical proficiency and equip participants with the knowledge needed to navigate the diverse requirements of audio solutions effectively.

For more information on upcoming training seminars, events, or to schedule a visit to the HAV/HARMAN Experience Centre, please contact hav.marketing@havpro.com

HARMAN Professional Solutions EMEA Appoints New Audio Distribution Partners in Italy

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 09:00:00 +0000

LONDON — HARMAN Professional Solutions, the global leader in audio, video, lighting, networked AV and control systems, today announced a new partnership with Exhibo S.p.A. and Adagio Italia for audio distribution responsibilities in Italy. Exhibo will take responsibility for JBL Professional, Crown, Soundcraft, BSS, Lexicon and dbx branded products alongside its current distribution of Martin lighting while Adagio has been appointed for distribution of AKG.

Effective January 1, 2024, Exhibo S.p.A. and Adagio Italia will take over the sales and services of all HARMAN Professional brands audio brands from Leading Technologies. Located in Milan, Exhibo is well-equipped to provide Italian customers and integrators with premium service and high-level expertise on HARMAN products. Located in San Benedetto del Tronto, Adagio Italia will harness its strengths in the retail, live and recording markets to connect the AKG brand even more closely with its customers.

These partnerships are a major step forward in HARMAN’s mission to reach more customers than ever and provide best-in-class audio solutions throughout all of Europe.

“I am delighted to see these new partnerships in Italy,” said Mark Bailey, Harman Professional’s Director of Audio for the EMEA region. “Leveraging Exhibo’s 60+ years of experience along with the strength of the Harman Pro portfolio provides a unique opportunity in the Italian market across retail, installation and touring. In addition, Adagio Italia’s strength in the recording and retail markets will take our iconic AKG brand to new heights.”

Leading Technologies will continue to supply HARMAN Professional products through December 31, 2023. To ensure a smooth and natural transition, representatives from Exhibo and Adagio Italia will be contacting Italian customers in advance of the January 1 start date. Starting today, customers can work directly with Exhibo and Adagio to set up accounts, establish credit lines, meet personnel and more.

HARMAN Professional thanks Leading Technologies for their many years of hard work and dedication to our brands, and we wish them well in their ongoing business. We look forward to collaborating with Exhibo and Adagio Italia to further develop the Italian market in the New Year.

Gateway Theater Revamps Its Performance Spaces with JBL Professional

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Singapore—To equip Gateway Theater with impactful sound, Electronics & Engineering Pte Ltd (E&E) and HARMAN Professional Solutions selected and installed next-generation JBL Professional loudspeakers and Crown amplification.

Located at the heart of Bukit Merah Central in Singapore, Gateway Theater is a multi-theatre venue that serves as a creative arts space promoting made-in-Singapore works and talents of all cultures. The theater features several performance spaces, including a 922-seat auditorium, 207-seat black box studio, 100-seat sky garden and other multi-purpose studios.

With the vision to enhance the theater’s production value and experience, Gateway Theatre engaged E&E to bring about a comprehensive and creative cutting-edge audio system. Being a popular venue within Singapore’s art scene and with ongoing bookings within the venue, Electronics & Engineering Pte Ltd and HARMAN Professional needed to conduct installations without disrupting any existing venue bookings—all while navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. With these challenges in mind, the installation team selected streamlined yet powerful JBL Professional and Crown audio solutions.

Designed to excel in high-end fixed installations, the JBL VTX A-Series proved invaluable for the main theater. With a compact design and 100-degree dispersion, the JBL VTX A8 delivers optimal sound for the audience thanks to its high-quality transducers and innovative waveguide technology. Paired with the extended low end of the JBL VTX B18 subwoofer, the new audio system outputs wider dynamic range for the theater.

Additionally, the team installed an array of JBL VRX928LA 8-inch, two-way loudspeakers. Compact and lightweight, the VRX928LA is a line array speaker system that offers outstanding coverage and sonic clarity for the theater’s front fill.

The sky garden received JBL CBT1000 column speaker and CBT1000E speaker extension for improved vertical coverage. When connected, the combined pair provides increased bass response, pattern control, and sound output levels. The combined array system also utilizes a horizontal waveguide so the audience can hear balanced sound from every seat in the sky garden.

For professional-grade amplification, the Crown I-Tech 4x3500HD provides up to 7000W of uncompromising power. Driven by its patented Class-I technology, the 4x3500HD provides ample output and responsive control for any performance or event.

“Sound is a key element in a staged production. In our theatre and art spaces, it plays a critical role in defining the mood of any performance,” says Boon Bing, Technical Manager of Gateway Theatre. “We are pleased that E&E was able to understand that and deliver expert advice and recommendations with JBL’s product range. At Gateway Theatre, we strive to provide consistently stunning world-class sound, elevating performances here through our carefully calibrated audio system and bringing immersive experiences to our audiences".

Having been involved in the original installation, we are pleased to be back to update the speaker system in the various venues to better meet the needs of Gateway Theatre and their clients,” said Gary Goh, CEO, Electronics & Engineering Pte Ltd. "We are hugely grateful for the trust that the Management of Gateway Theater have placed in us over the years, paving the way for these improvements.”

“Gateway Theater can now deliver impactful audio experiences,” said Amar Subash, VP & GM, HARMAN Professional Solutions of APAC. “We would like to thank our partner, Electronics & Engineering Pte Ltd for their trust and confidence in HARMAN’s products as we pride ourselves in providing end-to-end solutions, superior sound quality and remarkable coverage for the entertainment industry.”

Pop’s Nightclub and Concert Venue Ushers In a New Era of High Octane Nightlife with JBL Professional VTX Series

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 09:00:00 +0000

SAUGET, Illinois—To ensure perfectly balanced sound coverage and quality for a non-stop calendar of concerts and dance parties, Pop’s Nightclub and Concert Venue recently decided to replace its aging sound system with a state-of-the-art JBL Professional live sound reinforcement solution powered by Crown amplification.

Founded in 1981, Pop’s is a legendary nightclub and concert venue located in Sauget, Illinois, a late night oasis on the outskirts of St. Louis. A laundry list of musical acts have played the iconic 1200-cap venue throughout the years; from Slipknot and Motorhead to Post Malone and Bruno Mars. In addition to a busy schedule as a concert venue, Pop’s is also famous for transforming into an all-night dance club after midnight and into the daylight hours of the next day.

To ensure balanced sound quality with venue-wide coverage and improved line-of-sight to the stage from all corners of the room, venue management decided to upgrade the sound system with a more modern design. Pop’s production manager Brian Sankus partnered with sound engineer Chris Coleman and event manager Ryan Kelley to replace the venue’s aging sound system with a streamlined JBL Professional VTX Series live sound reinforcement system, which made its debut performance in late 2022.

“The club’s objective was to improve line-of-sight and coverage,” said Sankus. “Before, it was trap boxes and 60-degree horns. You could walk around and hear phasing, and there wasn’t much clarity in the balcony. There were also giant ground-stacks, so if you were off to the side, you couldn’t really see the stage. With the new VTX system, you can go from extreme stage left to extreme stage right, on the floor or in the balcony, and it’s the same great sound quality from every angle. Between the suspended A12W as mains and the 4886 as balcony fills, we also cleared up a ton of line of sight.”

When shopping for the new system, Sankus turned to a trusted colleague, Justin Slazas of Knoxville-based audio provider M&L Sound. Together, Sankus and Slazas designed a streamlined JBL system consisting of eight VTX A12W line array speakers over the stage (hung four per side) and ten VT4886 line array speakers to cover the balcony (five clusters of two speakers each). The VTX A12W’s 180-degree dispersion pattern helps Sankus provide the extra wide coverage Pop’s needed while still delivering unmatched performance and sensitivity.

“Pop’s has always been an old-school rock club—we wanted to upgrade the system while retaining a certain type of tonality,” said Sankus. “The A12W gives us the ability to deliver the powerful sound we need with 120-degree coverage and great clarity. The top end is super clear, whether it’s an empty room sound check or packed with 1200 people. It’s a very versatile speaker while still being a mean-sounding box that’s perfect for heavy rock music. The A12W and 4886 are different boxes, but they blend seamlessly so that you can’t tell the difference between the balcony and the floor.”

To provide a powerful bottom end in the entire club, the team deployed six VTX B28 dual 18-inch subwoofers on the ground across the front of the stage. Sankus hung three additional VT4886 to provide supplemental center down fill coverage for the front rows in the audience. Onstage, twelve VRX915 wedges and two SRX835 side fills with four SRX728S subs enable musicians to hear themselves and each other with power and accuracy. The main PA system is powered by 14 Crown ITech 4x3500HD amplifiers with built-in JBL speaker presets, ensuring seamless integration that brings the best out of the venue’s JBL VTX A12W and VT4886 speakers.

“The Crown factory presets for the JBL speakers made the tuning process very quick, and with very minimal EQ, the speakers sounded perfect right out the gate,” said Sankus. “The system tuning works for both the live bands, and the DJs, so the transition from one to the other is seamless and flawless. We’ve gotten positive feedback from longtime patrons, and the guest engineers that have been in here before are stoked on the new JBL VTX system. It’s been very gratifying, being able to go back into the club where I saw and played my first shows as well as learned how to do sound, and helping them upgrade the overall experience. It was a very full circle moment in my life.”

The Stadium Theatre Merges History and Modernity Onstage with Help from HARMAN Professional Solutions

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 09:00:00 +0000

WOONSOCKET, R.I.—To update the historic Stadium Theatre for modern live shows while still paying respect to its Vaudeville-era design, All Tech Sound designed and installed a versatile range of HARMAN Professional audio solutions.

First opened in 1926, the Stadium Theatre is one of only a handful of Vaudeville-era theaters in the country that are still in operation, and today it hosts an eclectic range of shows and productions. Owned and operated since 1996 by the nonprofit Stadium Theatre Foundation, the venue is in its 25th year of extensive renovations to both restore its historic architecture and update the technology to better suit modern performances.

For the audio component, the venue required an agile system that not only provided the dynamic range and coverage suitable for a wide variety of performances, but also looked discreet and didn’t impede on the venue’s historical aesthetics. To meet these requirements, the Stadium Theatre Foundation worked with Jeff Hansen of All Tech Sound to select and implement JBL Professional VTX Series speakers and Crown I-Tech Series amplifiers.

“The Stadium, being an old theater, had an old point source system that was adequate for what we did at the time,” said Dennis Tancrell, Technical Director, Stadium Theatre Foundation. “As we started booking bigger and better shows and national touring acts, we realized that it was time to bring in a permanent line array system. We worked with All Tech Sound in the past to bring in a JBL VerTec system, but that involved volunteers every Friday ground stacking massive cabinets that weighed 130 pounds over and over again. When the opportunity came to try out the A8s in our venue, Jeff coordinated with sales guys and got us a rig for a weekend. We needed to have the rig fit in the very tight space on each side of the proscenium. and the A8s worked perfectly for that.”

A versatile addition to the VTX Series designed for a variety of applications, the JBL VTX A8 line array offers exceptional output and coverage in a remarkably compact eight-inch design. Equipped with patented Differential Drive woofers, a mid-frequency Radiation Boundary Integrator and an advanced high-frequency compression driver, the A8 ensures high-quality and consistent sound dispersion up to 110 degrees. Given that the Stadium needed an easily concealable speaker that worked within the space limitations and also reached every audience section including the balcony, the A8 was a natural choice.

“They had been looking for something that would fit the atmosphere of the room for a while, and some of the other bigger boxes just wouldn't have worked,” said Jeff Hansen. “When the A8s came along, we brought a system in and it sounded phenomenal. We got beautiful coverage right to the back of the room when we calibrated and tuned the final installation. The spread is phenomenal, and it sounds great.”

“We have always had issues getting coverage up to our balcony,” added Tancrell. “We're a true stadium-style theater, which means no overhanging balcony. Getting coverage up into that balcony with the system that we had before was very difficult and almost non-existent. But then the A8s came in and before Jeff even started tuning them, they filled the entire place. I knew immediately that it was the rig of choice .”

Along with the VTX A8, Hansen and the installation team equipped the theater with JBL VTX B18 and B28 subwoofers for reinforced, distortion-free low end. Whether grounded or stacked, the B18 and B28 respectively feature single and dual 18-inch woofers designed to complement the rest of the VTX Series with optimal bass response down to 25 Hz. The speakers’ power combined with their lightweight and compact design allowed the theater to hang subs in the theater for the first time and reduce the overall amount of subs needed without sacrificing low end. Finally, JBL AC16 ultra compact loudspeakers deliver dedicated front fill coverage, while the JBL VTX M20 provides performers with high-fidelity stage monitors.

“The good thing about the VTX subs is that we were able to fly them where we weren’t able to in the past thanks to their size and weight,” explained Hansen. “Whenever we did ground stacks before, they would impede sight lines and get in the way and not look very nice, especially in the Vaudeville theater. So the advantage of being able to fly half of the subs and keep them out of the way was a great advantage, and we've actually built platforms off to the side so the ground subs can be out of the sight lines and still give you enough oomph when needed for the bigger acts. For the front fills, we wanted something that would blend in and be as unobtrusive as possible but still provide high quality sound, and the AC16s are nice and slim and have a good tone to them, so they fit perfectly.”

For amplification, Hansen and the team choose the Crown HD Series, having used the I-Tech 4x3500 in particular for many years. The two-channel Crown I-Tech 12000HD and four-channel I-Tech 4x3500HD amplifiers offer the power and processing capabilities needed for modern productions. Loaded with BSS OMNIDRIVEHD processing engines, linear phase FIR filters and LevelMAX limiters, both amps ensure low-latency signal processing and unrivaled sonic clarity for any type of performance the Stadium Theatre hosts.

Overall, the new audio system progresses the Stadium’s ongoing transformation and ensures its place as a prestigious, modern venue as well as a piece of American entertainment history. Tancrell praised the A8 in particular for making premium output and clarity attainable in a compact and budget-friendly design.

“We do a lot of top-notch tribute shows, and one night this band convinced me to use their big traveling rig,” explained Tancrell. “I fell in love with that system, but what I didn't fall in love with was the price tag. As a nonprofit, there was no way we could have ever afforded that, and it just wouldn't have fit in the space. But that same touring band came back this year and don't you know what they're traveling with now? They're traveling with the A8s, and it sounds just as good.”

Dua by Lago Produces Unique Events with World Class Audio Technology by HARMAN Professional Solutions

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 09:00:00 +0000

RISHON LEZION, Israel—To ensure perfectly balanced sound coverage and quality for a wide range of events, KZPRO recently collaborated with HARMAN Professional Solutions to outfit Dua by Lago with a state-of-the-art networked audio system consisting of JBL, Crown and BSS solutions.

Lago is a large event complex that houses three different venues—Spirit, Soul and Dua—for conferences, exhibitions and events of all sizes. Located on the edge of Rishon LeZion Lake, Dua by Lago is one of Israel’s premier venues for weddings, proms and other special occasions. To ensure world-class guest experiences from the moment they approach the building to the end of the event, Lago required state-of-the-art audio solutions uniquely suited to each area of the venue. Lago’s management turned to integrators KZPRO (Professional Sound Division of RBX / Kley Zemer) to outfit Dua’s indoor dance floor, dining areas, outdoor garden and canopy with a complete HARMAN networked audio system featuring JBL Professional loudspeakers, Crown amplifiers and BSS network processors.

“We were asked to install a distributed sound system that would provide unified sound quality throughout the interior and exterior of the venue,” said Libby Kochan, Marketing, KZPRO. “They wanted to be able to play music in the event garden as well as inside the hall in a way that would be user-friendly and uniformly distributed. We also needed to ensure each speaker’s properties were suited for the environments, in terms of both sound quality and visual aesthetic. JBL’s wide selection of speakers allowed us to pick the right solution for each area. JBL speakers deliver the sound quality we need while blending in seamlessly. Our clients are very happy with the outcome—they’re proud to have one of the best sounding venues in Israel.”

For ceremonies and activities in Dua’s outdoor canopy, KZPRO installed JBL CBT 70J-1 column loudspeakers and AC115S subwoofers. The CBT 70J-1’s asymmetrical vertical coverage sends more sound toward the far area of the canopy, yielding consistent levels for guests in both the front and back rows. To provide immersive music playback in the rest of the beautiful outdoor garden, KZPRO installed JBL AWC62 highly weather resistant outdoor speakers. JBL AWC62’s IP56 weather rating protects the speakers from the harsh winds and high humidity that typically come from being located so close to the Mediterranean.

In Dua’s reception area, KZPRO installed JBL Control 25AV compact background speakers in the ceilings, while they outfitted the dance floor area with JBL AM7212 loudspeakers and ASB6128 subwoofers. The high-powered AM7212 loudspeakers and ASB6128 subwoofers help keep SPL and energy levels high on the dance floor itself, while the Control 25AV speakers enable guests to have conversations at their tables with comfortable music levels. KZPRO installed Crown ITech series amplifiers to power the floor speakers and subs, while the ceiling speakers and outdoor speakers are driven by Crown CDi Series amplifiers.

“At Lago, every floor is a different venue, so they wanted to keep the sound contained with Dua without disturbing the other floors,” said Oren Zisman, Manager of KZPRO’s Professional Sound Division. “To meet that goal, we used a large number of speakers with precise directivity—to put the sound where we want it without interfering with other events. We picked JBL because they offer a wide variety of speakers for every application and environment. The Crown amps have presets for each JBL speaker type, which made it really easy to tune the system and deliver unified sound quality throughout the entire venue, and the BSS control systems make it easy for the staff to control the volume level and source selection in each zone.”

To give Dua’s staff user-friendly control over all the speakers, KZPRO created a networked matrix using a BSS Soundweb London BLU-160 network processor with BLU-BIB and BLU-BOB input and output expanders. Using a unified touch screen controller, staff can choose to play different music in the various zones or combine the entire system into one seamless distributed system.

In addition to a successful installation at Dua by Lago, KZPRO also recently opened a new showroom at their headquarters. The new KZPRO showroom gives professionals in the Israeli market an opportunity to see and experience the latest technologies from HARMAN’s iconic brands.

Bar Menaka Revives Its Music Bar with HARMAN Professional Solutions

Tue, 27 Dec 2022 09:00:00 +0000

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia – To transform the prestigious Bar Menaka into a modern entertainment venue, Nano Tech Co Ltd installed a range of world-class HARMAN Professional audio solutions.

Located at Phnom Penh, Bar Menaka is a popular venue for upscale parties, fashion shows, dinners and corporate events. Elaborately decorated with lush jungle terraces, Khmer sculptures and a long Angkor-style hallway, the venue exudes a unique ambience while offering impeccable Cambodian hospitality.

To deliver captivating live music experiences for guests, Bar Menaka’s management wanted to repurpose the venue’s cafe into a premier bar and entertainment space featuring a world-class audio system. With live bands and DJs performing on a regular basis, it was imperative that the new system had tour-grade power and versatility. To meet these requests, NanoTech Co Ltd partnered with HARMAN Professional and installed a diverse range of JBL Professional, Crown and Soundcraft audio solutions.

The JBL VTX F15 multi-purpose loudspeakers provide the main stage with a full spectrum of dynamic sound. Compared to conventional loudspeakers, the JBL VTX F15 has significantly higher output, less distortion and superior power handling. With patented D2 Dual Drivers and Differential Drive® Technology, these high-performance loudspeakers dramatically enhance all music performances at Bar Menaka.

NanoTech Co. Ltd. installed the JBL STX812M for powerful on-stage sound. Featuring a low-profile design that is only 12 inches above the stage, these professional monitors provide accurate sound for the performers without obstructing the audience’s field of view. The waveguide ensures nominal coverage, allowing performers to hear clearly while moving around the stage.

The Crown ITech 4x3500HD amplifier delivers substantial power for the entire loudspeaker system. As the industry’s first high-powered tour amplifier, the Crown ITech 4x3500HD has a powerful processing engine and a wide selection of inputs to meet the needs of any scenario. Each channel includes the acclaimed LevelMAX™ Limiter Suite for accurate response and smooth sound.

Bar Menaka also received the Soundcraft Si Performer digital live mixer. Powerful and intuitive, the Soundcraft Si Performer provides limitless flexibility and control for the front of house. The Soundcraft Si Performer features four Stereo Lexicon FX processors that can be used simultaneously without affecting sound quality. In addition, the mixer’s built-in DMX controller grants seamless control over the light fixtures on Bar Menaka’s main stage.

A spokesperson from Bar Menaka said the transformation of the sound system has significantly improved the quality of music performances. Bar Menaka now boasts powerful sound with unrivaled clarity, which is critical as a top entertainment night club in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

“Our range of industry-leading audio products ensures HARMAN delivers the best sound for versatile spaces like Bar Menaka,” said Amar Subash, Director, Channel Management and Audio Solutions, HARMAN Professional Solutions, APAC. “We are grateful to Nano Tech Co. Ltd. for the opportunity to collaborate on this exciting project.”

Stages Hotel Prague Pushes the Hospitality Industry Forward with Help from HARMAN Professional Solutions

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 09:00:00 +0000

PRAGUE—To provide the state-of-the-art Stages Hotel Prague with a comprehensive and versatile networked audio system, AV integrators Nowatron Elektronik and AudioMaster CZ installed a wide range of dynamic and powerful HARMAN Professional audio solutions.

Situated near both the O2 Arena and O2 Universum, the Stages offers visitors to Prague an unforgettable luxury experience showcasing the city’s eclectic music and arts scene. Along with its modern rooms, restaurants and meeting spaces, the Stages also features a fully linked audio-visual network between the hotel, the O2 Arena and O2 Universum. This ambitious system allows for independent or shared media broadcasting and streaming between the three venues in real time with minimal latency.

Given that this system is the first of its kind in the Czech Republic hospitality industry, the Stages required a modern AV solution that balanced advanced features and bandwidth with ease-of-use and accessibility. To meet these requirements for the hotel’s audio component, Nowatron Elektronik and AudioMaster CZ designed a versatile and future-proofed system using JBL Professional, Crown and BSS solutions.

“We were contacted to help with the installation because the hotel wanted to make something special—a hotel not only for regular guests, but also for all guests to the O2 Arena or Universum,” said Matěj Sborový, Project Manager, AudioMaster CZ. “All three buildings are interfaced via optical connection and they can transfer all audio and video signals from one building to another. All of the system functions had to be done very easily and without any complications for the user, so we had to implement the simplest user interface possible.”

The Stages Hotel’s audio system is divided into 13 zones, each capable of independent AV output. Some zones also include sub-areas such as conference rooms, which in turn have their own output. Such an intricate system was only possible thanks to the BSS BLU806DA digital signal processor with BLU link and Dante. Featuring configurable I/O and signal processing with “drag-and-drop” controls and a low-latency 256-channel audio bus, the BLU806DA combines high bandwidth and power with ease-of-use for instant and reliable audio distribution throughout the hotel. Additionally, the system’s Dante-based protocol allows for easy reconfiguring or expansion in the future, should the hotel need to do so in order to accommodate either of the O2 venues.

Along with the BLU806DA, the system backend also utilizes BSS BLU BIB input expanders and BLU BOB1 output expanders to maximize the network’s reach within the hotel and seamlessly connect with the O2 Arena and Universum’s respective systems. Finally, BSS EC-4BV ethernet controllers allow hotel staff and guests to quickly and easily control the audio signal for each zone and subzone. Hotel staff can also control each zone wirelessly from a smart tablet.

“The main core of the audio is the BSS BLU806 processor because of its high processing power and Dante connectivity,” said Sborový. “All of the audio signals are distributed through the hotel via the Dante network, so hotel staff can easily connect with some converter in any internet socket and to pass audio to the processing or DSP processor. For example, the hotel hosts a Master Chef-type show in the restaurant, and they need to use wireless microphones since there aren’t any analog inputs nearby. So instead, they can use an internet connection and wireless system with Dante output and broadcast the audio in the area without any problem.”

The installation team installed over 200 JBL ceiling, pendant, wall-mounted and outdoor speakers throughout the hotel to best accommodate each area’s specific requirements. JBL Control Series speakers accounted for the majority of the system thanks to their high output, reliable coverage and discreet design. The Control 12C/T and 14C/T ceiling speakers, for instance, are both equipped with compact full-range drivers for distortion-free audio at any output, as well as sleek designs that blend seamlessly with their surroundings.

Meanwhile, speakers such as the JBL Control 67HC/T and 64P/T pendant speakers respectively offer narrow and full range coverage with minimal echo for areas with high ceilings, while the Control CRV architectural speaker allows for discreet audio sources in curved areas. Finally, the weather-resistant JBL Control 25-1 speaker provides detailed sound for the outdoor spaces, and the JBL SoundBar 1 reinforces sound for TV monitors in the private conference spaces.

Finally, the installation team powered the system with both JBL CSA and Crown CDi Series amplifiers. All four amp models used––the JBL CSA18OZ, JBL CSA24OZ, Crown CDi4/300BL and Crown CDi4/600BL––are equipped with Crown DriveCore technology for reliable power output, ample input options and versatile operation. Additionally, the CDi4/300BL and CDi4/600BL also come with BLU link for effortless connection to BSS networks.

Overall, the resulting audio system provides the Stages Hotel with seamless connection to the O2 Arena and Universum, and provides plenty of audio control and flexibility for staff and guests as well as potential for future modifications.

“The hotel management is happy that they have everything under control,” added Sborový. “They also appreciate that it's quite easy for them to make any changes now as well as in the future because they will probably in a few years want to do some small changes or something else entirely. With this system, it's very easy to implement whatever they want.”

REO Speedwagon, Styx and Loverboy Bring Contemporary Mixes to Nostalgic Arena Rock with Sound Image and JBL Professional

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 09:00:00 +0000

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich.—To provide modern and impactful live sound for rock veterans REO Speedwagon, Styx and Loverboy on their Live and Unzoomed Tour, San Diego-based and longtime JBL partner Sound Image enlisted a selection of JBL Professional and Crown audio solutions.

After dominating the 1970s and 1980s as two of rock’s premier hitmakers and live acts, Styx and REO Speedwagon joined forces along with hard rockers Loverboy for a massive summer co-headlining tour on the Live and Unzoomed Tour, a celebration of high-octane arena rock following the COVID-19 pandemic. The tour required an audio rig that emulated a classic rock show while also incorporating the dynamics and impact of modern live sound. To meet these requests, Sound Image deployed JBL VTX Series speakers with Crown I-Tech amplifiers for immersive sound and wide coverage.

“The main goal was simple—to provide a fun and exciting experience for the audience that makes them want to come back to our shows again and again,” said Joe Walsh, Front-of-House for REO Speedwagon. “Even though these bands are considered ‘legacy’ bands, we had to approach our live mixes in a contemporary manner that audiences expect in 2022. Modern live mixes require fidelity, punch and control, and we needed a system that was easily configurable and scalable while still providing the tonal balance and low distortion we are striving for.”

A staple for touring and mid-to-large venue productions, the JBL VTX V25-II-CS made up the majority of the Live and Unzoomed sound rig, with over 50 speakers used as the main and side hangs. Equipped with JBL’s patented D2 Dual Driver, Radiation Boundary Integrator and Differential Drive technology, the V25 II built upon the strengths of its previous iteration with balanced coverage, crystal-clear highs and distortion-free lows even at high output levels. Additionally, the speaker’s aluminum front design and newly designed compression suspension system make for lightweight and streamlined rigging.

“We prefer to have a full-range sound coming from the flown arrays, which the VTX drivers provide,” said Chris “Cookie” Hoff, Front-of-House for Styx. “The bass guitar to kick drum frequency range is crucial to us, and the V25 provides the phase response and frequency response in that area that we were looking for.”

Along with the V25, the live rig also includes eight JBL VTX V20 speakers, featuring the same design as the V25 in a smaller enclosure, as front fills. Despite its compact design, the V20 was specifically designed for even horizontal coverage up to 105 degrees and delivers notably high output compared to other similarly sized speakers.

Alongside the line arrays, the JBL VTX S28 provided ample low end and impact as both grounded and suspended subs. Built with two 2269H 18-inch transducers and a cardioid mode for reinforced rear rejection, the S28 ensures low-end clarity and detail that complements a rig of any size. Additionally, the S28 thrives as suspended speakers thanks to the same rigging system found in the V25.

“We prefer to not punish the front rows with low information that is intended for someone at the back of the venue,” explained Walsh. “That long-throw information is much better suited to coming from above people's heads. But in addition to the tight low-end punch of the V25/S28 combo, the linear phase response in the mid to upper frequency range is crucial to great sounding vocals, as both of our bands have.”

Finally, 72 Crown I-Tech 12000 HD Amplifiers provide ample power for the entire rig. Designed with the latest in touring amplification technology, the I-Tech 1200 features the BSS OMNIDRIVE HD engine for processing time and clarity that far exceeds its predecessors.

“Reviews have been positive, crowds have been great and the bands are having a good time playing for their multi-generational audiences, who have been singing along all night,” said Hoff. “HARMAN was there every step of the way, providing insights and suggestions to any questions we had throughout the tour.”

Thunder Audio Takes Mr. Worldwide Across North America with JBL VTX Systems on Pitbull’s Can’t Stop Us Now Tour

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 09:00:00 +0000

North America—Thunder Audio recently powered Pitbull’s “Can’t Stop Us Now” tour with JBL Professional VTX line array systems and Crown amplifiers in stadiums and amphitheaters across North America.

Following the success of his I Feel Good Tour in 2021, Pitbull’s Can’t Stop Us Now 2022 Tour is presented by Live Nation and features performances by Iggy Azalea and Sirius XM’s Globalization DJs in addition to the Cuban-American superstar himself. The 50+ date North American tour began in Raleigh, North Carolina on July 28 and will conclude in Hollywood, Florida on October 19.

Based on their trust in JBL Professional’s legendary sound quality, Pitbull’s veteran front-of-house engineer Will Madera and production manager Victor Martinez hired Thunder Audio to supply a complete stadium-ready JBL VTX system for the three-month tour. With the help of system engineer Nick Turner, the audio team selected and designed a state-of-the-art JBL touring sound solution consisting of VTX line array speakers and subwoofers, powered by Crown amplifiers.

“I wanted the unique sound that the JBL VTX Series provides,” said Will Madera, Front-Of-House Engineer with Pitbull. “We needed a system that could simultaneously deliver an urban sound and a pop sound. The VTX system checks all the boxes we were looking for on this tour, which requires me to mix a live band with an urban pop sound. The system response is balanced with plenty of lows, and translates my mix very clearly. I definitely look forward to carrying JBL VTX line arrays on future tours.”

The tour’s dynamic sound system features numerous speaker models from the VTX family of pro sound solutions. The main left-right hang consisted of 36 JBL VTX V25 speakers (18 boxes per side). With Differential Drive transducers, a patented Radiation Boundary Integrator and revolutionary D2 compression drivers, the JBL VTX V25 delivered Madera’s expertly crafted mixes with precision, clarity and high impact.

To ensure total coverage in the venues, Turner’s system design also included 24 VTX A12 speakers as suspended out fills (12 boxes per side), 16 VTX A8 as 270-degree wrap around speakers (eight per side), and eight VTX A8 as front fills. The award-winning VTX A Series helped Madera and the Thunder Audio team—Alex Martinez, James Romeo and Jamichael Partridge—deliver powerful and balanced sound quality in every seat of every stadium and amphitheater on the tour.

“The V25 speakers are nice as mains because of how much horsepower they provide,” said Nick Turner, System Engineer with Pitbull and Audio Crew Chief with Thunder Audio. “The A8 sounds absolutely stunning. I’m a big fan of the A8 because we can use it as front fills and wraparounds and it blends very well with the mains. The A12s sound great when paired with the B28 subs, which are pretty amazing. Will Madera absolutely loves the system and tells me how great it sounds every night. The great thing about the VTX Series speakers is that I don’t really have to do too much system tuning to make Will happy with the way his mixes are translating, because these speakers sound great right out of the gate. “

To supplement the extreme lows, 16 VTX S28 dual 18-inch arrayable subwoofers (eight subs per side) were flown behind or beside the V25 boxes, depending on the venue’s rigging capabilities. Additionally, the Thunder Audio team deployed 24 VTX B28 subwoofers on the floor in front of the stage, arranged in eight cardioid arrays of three boxes each. Turner and his team powered the entire system with a total of 92 Crown I-Tech 12000HD amplifiers, which provided more than enough headroom to deliver an impactful live sound experience in any venue.

“With sold-out shows, coverage is key,” said Turner. “There are many packed houses on this tour, and the staff is always asking if we can open additional seating. It feels great knowing that with the VTX system, we can say yes to covering any seat in the house and make it happen for them. The system has way more headroom than I’ve ever experienced in other systems.”

The streamlined best-in-class rigging technology and unmatched sound quality of VTX Series speakers allowed Turner and his team to design a modular PA that could be deployed in various configurations depending on the unique challenges presented by setting up shop in a different venue every night.

“The VTX system’s adaptability has been great, which helps us deploy different configurations when the venue has rigging restrictions,” said Turner. “The suspension system with the compression rigging makes it easy to fly these boxes, and the updates they’ve done with the A12 rigging is really nice as well. You pin your angles before you even fly it, and once you suspend it, everything pretty much just locks into place. Makes it really easy to get in and out of the venue each day.

Finally, Turner utilized JBL Array Link—a mobile companion app that works in conjunction with JBL’s latest LAC-III software—to quickly and reliably disseminate all the technical details needed for his team to deploy the JBL VTX line array speakers each day.

“I want to mention how great it is to have QR codes from the Line Array Calculator software,” said Turner. “It saves a tremendous amount of time each day by delivering information to my team precisely using the Array Link app on the phones. The Array Link app provides each fly guy all the details they need to deploy the hangs consistently and efficiently, from point weights, angles, fly bar positions, trim heights and more. I wish other manufacturers had this feature as it makes my job easy every morning and affords me a few minutes of spare time while onsite during the mornings.”

Greg Snyder, VP of Sales at Thunder Audio, spoke to the crucial role that JBL VTX solutions have played in the success of Thunder Audio’s endeavors, including Pitbull’s “Can’t Stop Us Now” Tour.

“Our experience with JBL VTX over the last ten years has proven to be extremely successful,” said Snyder. “The VTX system performs beyond all expectations in every situation we have ever used it in. Thanks to our relationship with HARMAN and the Pitbull team, this tour is a win for Thunder Audio and everyone who has enjoyed the shows. Our touring staff and the artist engineers are the best in the industry.”

Eun-pa Church Creates an Inviting Space for Worship With Class-Leading JBL Professional and Crown Audio Solutions

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 09:00:00 +0000

BUSAN, South Korea—To ensure clear, intelligible sound throughout Eun-pa Church, TechDataPS Co. outfitted the worship space with advanced JBL Professional loudspeakers and Crown amplifiers.

Established in 1971, Eun-pa Church has been providing worship services for more than 50 years. The church’s current facility was built in 2004 and required renovation after almost 20 years of use, including structural reinforcements to increase safety as well as a new sound reinforcement system for improved sound quality and flexibility.

TechDataPS reported that their client wanted the highest quality-audio system within their budget and was not satisfied after receiving quotes from multiple brands. They added that after visiting TechDataPS' showroom, the church’s pastor personally selected the JBL VTX A8 loudspeakers because he was satisfied with their performance.

For primary sound reinforcement, TechDataPS decided an 8-inch loudspeaker was the ideal choice for the size of the space, deploying a total of 12 JBL VTX A8 line array loudspeakers (six per side). With powerful, wide-spectrum output, a broad 110-degree horizontal coverage pattern and versatile rigging options, the VTX A8 is perfectly suited to the space. While the church had previously used a number of delay speakers to cover the area under its balcony, the VTX A8s provided more than enough coverage on their own, eliminating the need for additional speakers.

To meet the church’s request for powerful bass output, TechDataPS supplemented the main line arrays with two JBL VTX B18 subwoofers per side. Featuring a single 18-inch JBL 2288H Differential Drive woofer, the B18 delivers extended bass response perfectly matched to the A8’s frequency response. Patented JBL Slip Stream flared low-frequency ports improve airflow and reduce audible turbulence, even at maximum excursion.

To power the system, TechDataPS equipped the church with Crown I-Tech 4x3500HD amplifiers. Built around Crown's patented Class-I architecture, the I-Tech 4x3500HD delivers up to 4000 watts per channel with superb efficiency. The amplifier's four inputs accept analog, AES3 or Cobranet signals, and are each individually routable to the four output channels for maximum flexibility. Finally, each channel features OMNIDRIVEHD processing for signal enhancement and speaker protection, including the acclaimed LevelMAX Limiter Suite.

Eun-pa Church described the new audio system as simple, intuitive, easy to operate and reliable. Staff reported being very satisfied with the sound quality, praising its coverage characteristics and simple configuration.

"Worship spaces like Eun-pa Church require superior audio quality and clarity," said Amar Subash, VP & GM, HARMAN Professional Solutions, APAC. "We would like to thank our partner TechDataPS for understanding the specific needs of the client and designing a high-quality, easy-to-use sound reinforcement system capable of projecting consistently clear audio throughout the worship space."

Audiences at Coachella’s Gobi Stage Enjoy Dynamic, Impactful Sound From JBL Professional and Crown

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 09:00:00 +0000

INDIO, Calif.—For the Gobi Stage at this year’s Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, sound equipment provider Rat Sound Systems relied on HARMAN Professional audio solutions to deliver impactful sound and a consistently unforgettable audience experience.

Starting in 1999 with a 25,000-person attendance, Coachella is now one of the most successful and beloved music festivals in the world. This year, the festival occurred over two weekends and brought approximately 250,000 people to the Empire Polo Club in the Coachella Valley. This year marked the festival’s highly-anticipated return after a two-year hiatus with a lineup including Harry Styles, Billie Eilish and Swedish House Mafia with The Weeknd as headliners.

This year, the mid-size Gobi stage hosted a diverse bill of artists including electro-pop singer Rina Sawayama, alt-jazz combo BADBADNOTGOOD and rising queer country star Orville Peck among many others. To best accommodate a variety of genres and give the audience an immersive experience uninhibited by noise from the other festival stages, the Rat Sound team implemented a dynamic rig featuring JBL Professional VTX Series speakers and Crown VRack Series amplifiers.

“There are a lot of artists on the Gobi stage with a lot of dynamic and unique sounds,” said Kyle Pace, Project Manager, Rat Sound. “The main challenge at this stage is the tent structure and sound slapping from the back structures out in the field and sides of the tent. The JBL engineers came in and listened to the requests of what we were trying to accomplish. Using their smaller-degree boxes on top and the wides on bottom definitely helped minimize slapback from the rear structures and sides of the tent. The JBL system did a phenomenal job at projecting a clear and accurate representation of what was going in and out of the console.”

Using the streamlined, best-in-class rigging technology found across VTX Series speakers, the team designed two main speaker clusters each consisting of ten JBL VTX A12 and two A12W line array speakers. Featuring a high-frequency waveguide design and next-generation JBL transducer technology, the VTX A12 is built to provide mid-to-large stages with detailed sound and impactful output. Additionally, the redesigned Radiation Boundary Integrator ensures even coverage and minimal distortion or horn edge diffraction even at higher levels. The VTX A12W includes the same features as the A12 along with a 120-degree dispersion pattern for greater horizontal coverage.

“It’s so exciting to be back at Coachella, especially after the pandemic––it’s especially nice to be mixing on the VTX A12 PA,” said Anna Dahlin, FOH for Rina Sawayama. “It gives me all the clarity I need for a predominantly electronic show like Rina Sawayama, plus a solid sub to underpin the dance element of the music.”

Along with the A12 speakers, the Rat Sound team installed 15 JBL VTX B28 dual 18-inch subwoofers, which are designed to complement the rest of the VTX Series speakers with reinforced, transparent low end. Using innovative JBL Differential Drive woofers, the B28 delivers a powerful bass response as low as 25 Hz, making it a useful speaker for attention-grabbing live shows. Finally, JBL VTX A8 compact line array speakers, with 110-degree dispersion and mid-frequency Radiation Boundary Integrators, served as the front fill speakers and two delay clusters thanks to their efficient coverage and compact design.

“The drivers on the VTX speakers have a lot of clarity, precision and intelligibility,” said Pace. “I was able to make out and hear a lot of sounds that get buried inside of tracks. The consistency of the PA walking side to side and back to front was a breath of fresh air.”

“The VTX solutions deployed on Gobi were both musical and powerful,” noted Bill May, FOH for electronic artist TokiMonsta. “For my client on a festival stage with highly-produced tracks, it is very important to have heaps of headroom and a musical PA right out of the box. I was really impressed with this system and I’m excited to see it out on the road.”

For the backend, Rat Sound selected Crown VRack Series Amplifiers to provide ample power and optimum performance. Both the 4x3500HD and 12000HD amplifiers are all-in-one solutions for touring shows of any size, packing intuitive controls and reliable inputs into a compact and tour-ready enclosure. Lastly, JBL Performance Manager software provided the Gobi front-of-house with comprehensive, easy-to-use controls and a streamlined layout for programming, automation and more.

Across the two weekends, audiences at the Gobi stage enjoyed the rig’s crystal-clear and wide-reaching sound as they watched an eclectic lineup of artists and bands. Overall, the engineers who worked the Gobi stage found the system to be effective and worry-free, making for an enjoyable live music experience for everyone involved.

“Any time I walk into a VTX rig, I know it’s going to be a good day,” added Devin Foley, FOH for indie pop band the Marias. “They’re definitely one of my favorite boxes so far.”

Capella Bangkok Hotel Creates an Ambiance of Luxury With HARMAN Professional AV, Lighting and Control Solutions

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 09:00:00 +0000

BANGKOK—To ensure a premium guest experience with crystal-clear audio, professional lighting and sound for events, seamless video connectivity for meetings and a comprehensive central control system, Country Group Development collaborated with Mahajak Development to equip its Capella Bangkok hotel with a suite of HARMAN Professional networked AV, lighting and control solutions.

Capella Bangkok is a five-star hotel situated on a 13.8-acre lot overlooking the Chao Phraya River. In addition to its 101 lavishly-appointed guest rooms, suites and luxury villas, the hotel features three restaurants, a tearoom, a greenhouse, a grand ballroom and four multipurpose “atelier” specialty function rooms.

“We were responsible for the audio, visual, lighting and control systems design for the ballroom, specialty function rooms and four areas of the background music system,” said Eric Wong, AV Consultant of Katakan Consulting Co., Ltd., as reported by Mahajak. “The client wanted a versatile system capable of delivering sharp, clear sound without distortion for a variety of functions like seminars, conferences and other events. They also requested a high-resolution video system.”

“We are proud to be a part of the organization installing the audio system for Capella Bangkok Hotel,” added Pongsakorn Kanchanachayphoom, Project Director, Mahajak Development Co. Ltd.

Mahajak provided background music systems for the lobby, lounge, restaurant, pool, spa and fitness areas, as well as a public announcement system capable of broadcasting to every floor from a single control room. In the main lobby and corridors, JBL Control 14CT and Control 47CT ceiling speakers provide full-range sound while blending into the architecture seamlessly. In areas with high ceilings, Mahajak selected JBL Control 226CT, 45C/T and 19CST in-ceiling loudspeakers for greater coverage. Weather-resistant JBL Control 88M and Control 29-1AV outdoor loudspeakers cover the garden area, while MS610 waterproof marine loudspeakers provide audio for the spa area.

To meet the needs of a variety of events from weddings to business meetings, Mahajak equipped the ballroom and specialty function rooms with JBL Control 16CT, 45CT, 226C/T, 19CST and 328C in-ceiling loudspeakers. JBL EON612 self-powered loudspeakers with PRX818LF low-frequency subwoofer systems provide additional sound reinforcement for larger events. Mahajak selected Crown CDi 2|300, XTi 6002, CT 8150 and XFMR-8 amplifiers to power the speakers, as well as a Soundcraft LX7ii analog mixing console for uncompromising sound and reliable performance. To provide professional-quality lighting for the stage area, Mahajak hung Martin RUSH PAR 2 RGBW Zoom fixtures from a ceiling truss, using a Martin Ether2DMX8 router to send DMX control signals to the fixtures.

To give staff comprehensive control over the audio and lighting systems, Mahajak equipped the hotel’s control center with a range of HARMAN control solutions and installed additional control panels throughout the facility for on-site adjustments. An AMX NX-3200 integrated controller with an MXD-1001-L touch panel provides comprehensive routing for AV signals throughout the facility, while the AMX TPC-IPAD app provides remote control capabilities via Apple iPad. A BSS BLU-100 Signal Processor in the control center provides signal distribution to each floor’s audio system via BLU Link digital audio networking, while BSS BLU-10 and EC-4BV wall-mounted controllers allow staff to easily adjust volume and configure audio zones remotely. Crown CDi 4|300 amplifiers power each floor’s speakers and a Soundcraft LX7ii analog mixing console provides advanced mixing capabilities.

Capella Bangkok Hotel staff reported that the HARMAN AV and lighting solutions exceeded their expectations, providing a world-class experience for guests. They added that Mahajak helped achieve their objective of livening up the space with pristine sound and speech intelligibility across the facility.

“A sophisticated venue like Capella Bangkok Hotel requires best-in-class AV and lighting solutions to create an immersive space for guests," said G. Amar Subash, VP and GM, HARMAN Professional Solutions, APAC. “We would like to thank our partner Mahajak Development for applying their expertise and executing the project with dedication and perfection.”

Warstic Bat Company Enhances Flagship Store and Headquarters with JBL Professional and Crown Audio

Thu, 26 May 2022 09:00:00 +0000

DALLAS—Baseball bat company Warstic Sports, Inc. recently opened its state-of-the-art headquarters and retail space in Dallas, which features a comprehensive networked audio system from HARMAN Professional Solutions.

Founded by former baseball player and entrepreneur Ben Jenkins in 2011, Warstic specializes in state-of-the-art metal bats and customizable wood bats, along with batting gloves, fielding gloves and other baseball and softball accessories. In 2016, four-time All-Star second baseman Ian Kinsler and musician Jack White became co-owners alongside Jenkins, and in November 2021 the company officially opened its flagship store and headquarters in Dallas. In addition to a retail space and batting cage area, the facility also features a cafe, a conference space known as the War Room, and a live performance space in the basement. To meet Warstic’s current needs and anticipate future plans for the space, HARMAN Professional Solutions provided design assistance and installation guidance for the highly versatile audio system featuring JBL Professional, Crown, BSS and Soundcraft solutions.

“The building itself is not only our central office but also a retail store, batting cage, speaking and event center, factory, coffee shop and a place for live music,” said Christine Edgington, President, Warstic Sports, Inc. “There are so many components packed into our 10k foot space. We started the process with a detailed explanation of how we would be utilizing all of the different spaces, and HARMAN matched our needs with their extensive list of products.”

“Each space had its own individual needs as far as audio was concerned,” added Nick Mourn, Production Application Support Specialist, HARMAN Professional Solutions. “What made this installation unique was that Warstic wanted each space to share the same audio for things like background music, as well as the option for each space to have its own audio source. There’s a considerable amount of flexibility in the design so that as time goes on, the company will have an easier time launching future plans and projects. The retail space has a big projection screen, for example, and the plan is to eventually be able to play things on the screen and have the video’s sound run through the audio system just within the retail space. So this design was all about maximum flexibility without making it too complex.”

The retail space features JBL Control 65 P/T compact full-range pendant speakers with Radiation Boundary Integration technology, ensuring immersive background music, legible communications and wide coverage throughout the spaces. A Crown DCi 4|600N amplifier with BLU link and DriveCore technology provides power to the Control 65 speakers in the retail space, cafe and War Room.

The batting cage space required a more dexterous audio design to both maintain audible sound during batting sessions and provide full-range live sound for acoustic shows, events and classes planned for the space. The area consists of JBL AM7212/95 two-way loudspeakers, featuring a rotatable horn and waveguide for versatile placement and coverage, as well as JBL Control 31 two-way monitor speakers for additional monitoring during shows or outdoor events. A Crown DCi 2|1250N amplifier powers the speakers, and a Soundcraft Ui24R digital mixer offers simple wireless audio control for Warstic staff.

“The AM7212/95 is a higher-output speaker compared to the pendant style used in the other spaces,” added Mourn. “The reason behind this is not only for music playback purposes, but also when they start to do batting workshops and even small concerts in that space, the speakers can operate as a true sound reinforcement system.”

The basement is an intimate, speakeasy-style live music area similar to the stages found in Jack White’s Third Man Records locations in Nashville, Detroit and London, all of which feature HARMAN audio systems. This space features JBL AM7215/26 high-power loudspeakers and ASB6128 high-power subwoofers for impactful dynamics and complete coverage for the entire audience. Additionally, JBL SRX812P self-powered speakers and SRX818SP subwoofers offer pristine and concentrated onstage monitoring, and both can also be used as a portable sound system for pop-up or outdoor events.

“We wanted the equipment in the stage area to make a statement,,” said Edgington. “The JBL speakers provide massive sound that explodes off the stage and looks great while doing so. Across the board, the sound quality is beyond our wildest expectations in every corner of the building.”

For the stage’s backend, a Crown DCi 4|1250ND amplifier provides ample power and a Soundcraft Vi1000 digital mixing console with a Soundcraft Vi Stagebox allows for easy and accurate sound mixing across more than 100 available inputs. Finally, JBL Control 65 P/T speakers powered by a Crown DCi 2|600N provide background audio for the basement.

For the entire facility, a BSS BLU-101 signal processor ensures high-bandwidth processing and low-latency audio. BSS BLU-BIB input expanders in each area also allow for individual inputs in any part of the facility for events or live shows. Finally, BSS EC-8BV wall-mount controllers in each area provide easy-to-use and responsive audio and input control, which in turn allows for each area to operate and play different audio independently from one another.

Warstic celebrated its opening with a surprise performance by Jack White, and the cutting-edge audio system created an inviting and engaging experience for new visitors and customers.

“It was a very exciting night; Jack and the band played a great set and we got a lot of compliments on how good it sounded, especially given that the space is extremely small,” said Mourn. “We look forward to seeing where Warstic takes this system from here.”

“The reality is that they had their work cut out for them,” added Edgington. “HARMAN was patient and incredibly informative throughout the journey to complete this project. They listened carefully to our goals and ensured that we had an end result that would serve the needs of our location perfectly.”

BMW Upgrades Nürburgring Showroom With Cutting-Edge HARMAN Professional Audio-Visual Solutions

Tue, 26 Apr 2022 09:00:00 +0000

NÜRBURG, Germany—To enhance the visitor experience at the BMW showroom in the iconic Nürburgring motorsports complex, system integrators C-Line Mediensysteme installed a suite of powerful HARMAN Professional audio-visual solutions.

BMW and HARMAN have enjoyed a close working relationship for almost 30 years. Harman Kardon speakers deliver immersive and high-fidelity audio on the road to millions of BMW sedan and SUV owners, making HARMAN’s technology as much a part of the BMW experience as the finely-tuned engines and German craftsmanship. For its 480-square meter showroom at the legendary Nürburgring Formula 1 motorsports complex, BMW wanted a versatile and easy-to-use audio-visual system with wireless control to ensure an unforgettable experience for every visitor. To meet these requirements, BMW and C-Line deployed a comprehensive selection of AMX, JBL Professional and Crown solutions.

“We wanted to deliver a perfect sound and video system, but we had to meet a really tight deadline,” said Thomas Langenegger, Project Manager, BMW M. “Complicating matters, we had to use the venue for different exhibits, each with their own audio-visual needs.”

BMW’s primary goal for the showroom’s system was to deliver audio and video content throughout the facility with ease and efficiency. AMX SVSI 2300 Series AVoIP encoders and decoders provide the needed processing power and user-friendliness, allowing staff to display signage, presentations, and race day video feeds at the touch of a button. AMX Modero touch panels allow users to control the displays on any of the nine video walls throughout the space and select live TV, Nürburgring TV or auxiliary inputs for presenters to showcase their own content. AMX Touch Panel Control apps give users the same level of control from wireless tablets and smartphones.

"Since the beginning of the project, we knew that we would install a reliable and rock-solid control system combined with SVSI networked AV from AMX,” said Christian Kraus, Account Manager, C-Line Mediensysteme. “AMX is our manufacturer of choice and we have done many successful installations over the years using their solutions."

To accommodate the showroom’s limited size, C-Line selected JBL AC28/26 two-way loudspeakers and ASB6115 subwoofers for wide coverage and detailed sound while taking up minimal space. Because the showroom also has the ability to be divided into three separate audio zones divided by acoustic curtains, C-Line deployed JBL AWC82 and Control 67 P/T loudspeakers to provide distinct, independent audio in each area when needed. Crown CDi 4|600 and CDi 2|300 networked amplifiers, featuring easy monitoring and extensive control options, allow staff to program and adjust extremely low-latency audio throughout the facility. Langenegger reported overwhelmingly positive responses to the showroom’s audio and video components from visitors thus far, recognizing HARMAN and C-Line for their expertise and collaboration.

“BMW is a hugely design-oriented company, so we wanted speakers that would be both sleek and unobtrusive,” added Langenegger. “The JBL speakers fit the bill, and the whole system works perfectly. HARMAN and BMW have a long partnership because their equipment works and their products are excellent. We didn’t have to think too hard about partnering with HARMAN, and in the end, we chose the best system for our needs. It met, if not exceeded, our requirements.”