mondo | stadia - Issue 18

UAEFA PRESIDENT’S CUP FINAL

AUDI FIELD

HYBRID FAN EXPERIENCE

AUDIO FOCUS

A team ot suppliers prepare Hazza bin Zayed Stadium to welcome fans back for the first time since 2019.

D.C United utilise solar technology from SolarEdge to ensure its home ground is one of the most eco friendly.

Quince Imaging explain how venues are integrating virtual fans and inperson spectators as audiences return.

We showcase stadium projects and high-end products from the audio industry.

ISSUE 18 - JUNE | JULY 2021

THE INTERNATIONAL PUBLICATION FOR TECHNOLOGY IN SPORTING VENUES

ISSUE ISSUE 17 18 -- APRIL JUNE || JULY MAY 2021 2021 WWW.MONDOSTADIA.COM

HQ series

Sound solution for large scale installations.

www.dasaudio.com

18 WELCOME

hile we’re not quite back to normal just yet, stadiums welcoming fans back once again - even at limited capacity - has been great to see, as well as a reminder of what a difference it makes to the atmosphere. It has given us a taste of everything we’ve missed about live sport over the past 18 months - so, let’s hope we’re back a full capacity soon!

In this issue, we’ve covered a wide range of venues utilising impressive, state-of-the-art technology. Our cover story is a perfect example of this, with Robe providing the lighting at the League of Legends’ World Championship 2020 Finals in Shanghai, China.

We’ve also taken a closer look at the use of solar technology, too, with D.C United having enlisted the help of SolarEdge to make Audi Field even more of an environmentally-friendly venue.

Elsewhere, we have a feature on the return of fans to UAE stadiums, with a mixture of international and local companies all working together on Al Ain’s Hazza bin Zayed Stadium for the President’s Cup Final. With around 1,000 spectators treated to a spectacular show, it was certainly another step in the right direction for the industry.

Make sure you check out our Kick Off feature, which focusses on audio there are plenty of incredible sporting venue projects featured.

Finally, Quince Imaging have provided some interesting insight into the future of live sporting events in relation to hybrid fan experience - it looks like virtual fans are here to stay...

We hope you enjoy ISSUE 18.

W

Sam Hughes Editor

EVENT AVAILABLE ON CATCH UP ON SWAPCARD | WWW.MONDOSTADIA-AGORA.COM/HOME

SUPPORTERS

18 INSIDE…

Cover Image: Courtesy of Riot Games Editor Sam Hughes s.hughes@mondiale.co.uk

Assistant Editor Emma Davidson e.davidson@mondiale.co.uk

Digital Content Manager James Robertson j.robertson@mondiale.co.uk

Senior Account Manager Jamie Dixon j.dixon@mondiale.co.uk

Account Manager Laura Iles l.iles@mondiale.co.uk

Contributors Pete Iantorno Design & Production Dan Seaton d.seaton@mondiale.co.uk

Dave Bell d.bell@mondiale.co.uk

CEO Justin Gawne j.gawne@mondiale.co.uk

Finance Director Amanda Giles

TEAM TALK

006 Colin Farquhar, Exterity, a VITEC company

ar@mondiale.co.uk

048 Lambeau Field | Green Bay, USA

DRAWING BOARD

SOLAR TECHNOLOGY

010 Enio Tardini Stadium | Parma, Italy

052 Audi Field | Washington, D.C, USA

Group Chairman Damian Walsh MONDO | STADIA is published by Mondiale Media Limited, Strawberry Studios, Watson Square, Stockport, SK1 3AZ, UK Tel: +44 161 476 8340 Printed By Buxton Press WWW.MONDOSTADIA.COM

LIGHTING

044 League of Legends | Shanghai, China

a.giles@mondiale.co.uk

Credit Control

VENUE FOCUS

CABLING 056 2021 Diriyah E-Prix | Diriyah, Saudi Arabia

KICK OFF 012 Audio

EXTRA TIME 060 In Detail | Daplast

THE FULL PITCH

062 Venue Tech Directory

030 UAEFA President’s Cup Final | Al Ain, UAE

064 Full Time | Quince Imaging

COLIN FARQUHAR SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES VITEC How outdoor AV could be a turning point for in-person events in 2021 and beyond.

Images: Exterity, a VITEC company ith the vaccination program rolling

play and replays of all the live action around

the screens erected across all the multiple

out worldwide, live outdoor event

the venue or site. But, prior to last year, no

courses from which the tournament is played.

restrictions are starting to ease.

one could have predicted that the screens

Over 172,000 spectators make the trip for

As crowds begin to flurry back

would turn into a crucial player in enabling the

the one-week event, and over 600 screens

to stands and venues, event organisers must

return to normality for live events in 2021.

across the site deliver high-quality gameplay

be prepared to accommodate updated rules

As of March this year, the latest advice from

content. Although in today’s climate, 172,000

and regulations needed to provide a safe

the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

spectators would be advised against, this

experience. According to Indy Star, the outdoor

(CDC) recommends prioritising attending

year’s event at Royal St. George’s is still

venue for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway

outdoor events only to lower the risk of

expecting a significant number of fans in July

held capacity at 50% for the Indy 500, that

spreading COVID-19. As some outdoor sports

2021, according to The Independent. With a

took place May 30th 2021. Whereas, across

events often occur across a large space, it

professional IP video system and high-quality

the pond, for the English Premier League,

can be challenging for fans to watch the live

signage across the course, The Open spectators

stadium capacity is limited to 25% of its usual

physical action happening without the aid of

will feel assured that screens and signage

pre-COVID total, according to The Athletic.

screens and displays. To avoid mass crowds

throughout the venue provide the latest

Meanwhile, Sky Stadium in New Zealand

swarming on top of each other to see their

information on COVID safety measures.

has announced that there are no restrictions

favourite sports player take the field, broadcast

Not only is the use of digital signage extremely

on mass gatherings at all. These examples

coverage of the event distributed through

beneficial to spectators, but it can also be an

demonstrate the wide-ranging rules from

IP video systems can be a huge advantage.

essential tool to display branding across the

country to country, yet worldwide it is clear

Golf is an excellent example of a live event

venue. For example, Goodwood’s 12,000-

that visitors want to return to live events, and

taking place over a large site and utilises

acre estate deploys audio and visual elements

to do so they require event spaces that are

screens to the benefit of coverage and safety

supporting many of the events held on-site

equipped to create safe and COVID-friendly

measure updates. The Open Championship,

each year. These include video feeds displayed

environments. For many sporting events,

held in different venues across Scotland

onto 11 large LED screens and hospitality

large-scale screens and displays are crucial

each year, boasts a ‘pop-up’ IP video system

areas for the Festival of Speed, one of the

to the fans’ experience by showing up close

so fans can see live video action shown on

world’s greatest motorsport and car culture

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TEAM TALK

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007

TEAM TALK

008

celebrations. The IP video network deployed

of the COVID-19 safety regulations. The ability

and IPTV and digital signage systems play a

at Goodwood provides easy-to-use software

to easily add more screens anywhere on the

critical role in keeping players, staff, media,

that enables screens to be dynamically

network, presenting a consistent message

and the limited number of other visitors

changed to fit the needs of the event, including

across outdoor campuses, is key. It allows staff

allowed on-site, safe and informed about

information on hand-washing stations, one-

to schedule or update signage screens remotely

procedures. Expanding and updating these

way travel inside the venue and wayfinding.

and provide a long-term benefit to any venue.

capabilities will be even more critical as we

Whether event organisers want to market

For outdoor events currently taking place at

head further into the summer to protect

different brands across the site or, as during

a reduced scale, with the provision of signage

everyone and ensure smooth match day

the pandemic, leverage screens to serve as a

and screens located inside the venues, visitors

operations. By implementing a broader digital

reminder of the latest hygiene measures, such

can watch the event while sitting at the

signage and IP video technology strategy now,

as regularly sanitising hands, wearing a mask

venue’s bar, catering areas or lobby, creating

venues will be equipped to welcome fans to

and keeping a safe distance from one another,

a 360º match-day experience anywhere across

safe spaces – giving them full confidence in

the use of screens is significant.

the grounds.

their well-being so they can relax and enjoy

Many sports stadiums and venues had already

The power of digital signage and IP video

the live event.

deployed end-to-end IP video and digital

allows stadiums and venues to open quicker

signage technologies pre-pandemic, like

while still assuring fans that all necessary

Lord’s Cricket Ground in London. Venue staff

safety measures are being implemented to

can quickly and efficiently evolve digital

provide a more comforting experience. Some

signage to display the latest scores, event

live events have already made a return - such

highlights and replays, while reminding guests

as sports, albeit without fans in the stands -

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www.exterity.com

ENNIO TARDINI STADIUM Parma, Italy Rendering: Studio Zoppini

he new Ennio Tardini Stadium is more than just a new stadium for the city of Parma, and a new home for Parma Calcio. The venue is designed as a modern-day urban destination that can become a public space dedicated to the new generations and a symbol for the city of Parma.

The form is inspired by the traditional Symbols of Parma - the ‘Cathedral’ and the ‘Palazzo Pilotta’, reinterpreting the stone and masonry architecture in a more fluid, modern and technological manner. Transforming the notion of stone and brick into iron, a low-maintenance, lightweight, modern, pliable and cheap material, but one that is inspired by the textures and characteristics of materials of the past.

For the roof, the inspiration is taken from the Teatro Farnese, which has an exceptionally light wooden roof that seems to fly on the stone base. The goal is to create a similar element with new technologies that will allow the outer part of the roof to be semi-reflective, so when people walk around the exterior area of the stadium they begin to see what is happening inside.

Talking about roofing and technologies, the focus is on the sector that generates the most atmosphere - the Curva, which will have a partially reflective stand from a visual standpoint so that the perception of the number of fans creating support for the local team is immediately doubled.

The façade is none other than a series of hollow iron pieces that interlink to form the shape of the functions taking place below. The colours and shape

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of the Corten recall the traditional materials used throughout the city and even though being a large-scale facility, the façade being composed by beautiful rustic metal profiles becomes almost transparent according to the person’s vision angle. Also, the façade being created with profiles, allows the entry of natural light and natural ventilation through the galleries under the tribunes.

A place where activities happen 365 days a year will be created, with the experience given on match days under the north, east and south Stand with open spaces joined by a ‘galleria’ occupied with local business and activities with the purpose to contribute to the local economy in the area. In the west tribune a series of spaces will provide varying levels of hospitality, too.

Lounges will be placed next to the pitch, where fans will have the impression of being part of the team. On the upper levels are the lounges for the gold and bronze level fans, which – having a separate entrance – will be used as catering areas with restaurants open all week with a view of the city from the western side of the stadium.

The area around the stadium was designed to serve all generations of Parma’s habitants and tourists, with interactive areas encouraging sport activities and social interaction, from the principal gate those who arrive are welcomed with a big, centred piazza and two ramps that conduct the visitor into the stadium on the upper levels.

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KICK OFF | AUDIO A closer look at products and projects from the world of audio.

FUNKTION-ONE HUMO ICE DOME The recently opened Humo Ice Dome in Tashkent, Uzbekistan has been installed with a full-range Funktion-One sound system - courtesy of Igor Horváth (Audioservices), with design support from Andrey Kremenchugskij (Edelweiss Audio). The installation features specially-devised clusters of Evo 6SH loudspeakers with F215 and F124 bass reinforcement.

“The sound system is multi-functional,” explained Igor. “It is used for announcements and music playback during ice hockey matches, for high-quality music reproduction for figure skating and as a main sound system covering the seating areas for ice shows, theatre productions and gigs. It is also used for Government events. The system is designed so that it can be used as sidefills for concerts on the ice rink, when we can, for example, bring in a main Vero system.”

The loudspeakers are arranged in four corner clusters of nine Evo 6SH - three covering two side sections of the seating and three for the lower corner sections. The short sections behind each goal have two clusters of six Evo6SH (three for the upper seating section and three for the lower) together with an F215 bass enclosure.

A third configuration of five Evo 6SH (two covering the upper stand and three for the lower) with an F215 behind have been deployed along both lengths of the arena - four per side. A total of six clusters of two F124 bass enclosures are flown above both goals and two clusters in the third of the side stands. Finally, nine clusters of two Evo 6SH are positioned over the halfway line.

Igor explained: “The sound system provides even coverage across 012

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the audience areas, delivering very high resolution, intelligibility and dynamics in speech and music of many genres - including national folk, Uzbek music and instrumentals. The extensive acoustic treatment has reduced the delay and reverberation time, while the accuracy of the Funktion-One loudspeakers ensures there are minimal reflections. The sound is so coherent and the dynamics are more like that of a concert hall than a sports arena.”

The system is fully operated on a 96kHz Dante network into a Roland M5000 as a main desk in the control room, where there are also two Tascam multiformat players and four Sennheiser 500/965 wireless mics. To ensure sound quality is upheld across the audio spectrum, MP3s have been banned.

Three audio racks house the MC2 amplfiers, each with three Delta 40 DSP Dante (for highs), three Delta 80DSP Dante (mid/highs) and three Delta 100 DSP Dante (mid/lows and sub), as well as optical cross, switch, and power distributor.

“The distances between the connection points, control room and catwalks where the amplifiers are situated, plus its ability to maintain audio quality, meant that a Dante network was the best solution,” said Igor. “It also means that the sound system can fully cooperate with broadcast and TV and with systems coming in for special events. The Dante controller allows the whole system or parts of it to be controlled from anywhere.” www.funktion-one.com

KICK OFF

BOSE FRED KELLY STADIUM Fred Kelly Stadium was originally built in 1969 in honor of Frederick Warren “Fred” Kelly, who attended Orange Union High School and went on to become an Olympic Gold Medalist in the 110-metre high hurdles in 1912. As a foundation of the community, the stadium serves as the home field for the surrounding four Orange County high schools’ football programs, as well as a host for track and field, soccer and lacrosse events.

While the stadium has undergone multiple smaller renovations over the last several decades, in 2018, the stadium held a closing ceremony and was officially closed to allow for a more in-depth, $20-million renovation project to begin.

With a top-to-bottom renovation this extensive, Scott Harvey, Senior Executive Director of Facilities at the Orange Unified School District, knew the audio system needed to deliver the highest-level of sound quality consistently, whether for game announcements or music to get the fans excited. The original scope of work included a voice PA system for the playing field, but Harvey wanted to elevate the stadium’s capabilities and profile within the community, and this meant rethinking and redesigning the sound system.

With this in mind, Harvey knew the sound system was key to rounding out the full renovation project and needed to work with a system integrator who had the expertise and product knowledge to make this happen.

Sunset Audio/Visual brought the design and installation expertise that Fred Kelly Stadium needed. Understanding that a sound system is at the centre of the experience, Sunset Audio/Visual knew that Bose Professional would deliver a solution that lived up to the quality and capabilities needed.

Confidence in the Bose brand, Sunset Audio/Visual’s scope of experience, and the engineering know-how to predict the sound behavior and performance all delivered a winning combination and a state-of-the-art Bose sound system.

The resulting sound system provided audio coverage throughout the stadium and included the ArenaMatch DeltaQ AM10, AM20

and AM40 module array loudspeakers with an IP55 weather rating.

For the stadium and other areas, the ArenaMatch AMU105 and AMU108 loudspeakers and the MB210-WR outdoor subwoofer provided the compact design and powerful sound quality to complement DeltaQ technology. Starting from a sound system that consisted of only low end loudspeakers on posts, the Fred Kelly Stadium now has the sound system Scott and the executive team had hoped for.

“Implementing audiovisual technology into the arena created a great opportunity for local students, as well,” shared Stan Kjoder, Integration Specialist at Sunset Audio/Video. “Training students to run the system provides the schools a benefit of not just additional manpower, but another way for students to get engaged. Plus, it exposes them to a possible career field, too.”

The resulting Bose sound system “provides the best sound education opportunity for students,” added Doug Green, territory sales representative for Bose Professional. “And the stadium can now serve as a template for other school districts of what’s possible. Add Sunset AV’s training capabilities and commitment to customer service beyond project completion, and it was a partnership Fred Kelly Stadium was excited to have.”

With the new Bose sound system and the full renovation complete, the functionality of the stadium provides additional opportunities to host other sporting events, cinema nights with the new large video screen, music events and other high school performances. The stadium renovations truly deliver, securing an active and diverse future for the community.

“Bose did an amazing job with their know-how and teaching approach. They are committed to helping everyone involved understand the performance of the system, ensuring it’s exactly right,” concluded Scott. www.pro.bose.com

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OUTLINE STADIA 28 Featuring an excellent performance:price ratio, Stadia 28 is a medium-throw system for permanent outdoor installations, ideal for sound reinforcement in stadiums, theme parks, leisure facilities, tourist attractions and public spaces.

Stadia28’s strong point is its weight:power ratio, being a single enclosure, weighing just 21kg, but able to reach 139 dB SPL, by means of two eight-inch mid-subwoofers and a compression driver with a three-inch diaphragm – all in neodymium. The system operates in bi-amp format.

The dispersion angle of 90° by 22.5° enables, for example, to form horizontal or vertical arrays with no less than 135° by 90° using just six cabinets, which means guaranteeing coverage in any context, as well as remarkable versatility.

Moreover, Stadia 28 hardware is designed for safe long-lasting installation - the 10 mounting points in extremely light top-grade anodised ‘Ergal’ are fixed to the internal load-bearing structure manufactured entirely in stainless steel.

IP55 protection rating is ensured by a three-layer coating in elastoplastic material (OutSIDE Coating Technology – Outline proprietary technology) along with a series of sophisticated ideas introduced in Outline’s manufacturing process.

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Outline Senior Loudspeaker System Designer, Francesco Simeoni, commented: “The lines of the cabinet, combined with the waveguide designed and optimised specifically for this type of application thanks to the use of FEM software, creates real ‘sectors’ of acoustic projection that can be configured with extreme flexibility, thus meeting the coverage requirements of any kind of venue.”

Francesco explained the effort that was taken with the design of the cabinets – with materials such as Ergal, stainless steel, compound polyurea coating, anti-UV treatment, lines and outlets for the run-off of water and many other construction details – and with the choice of the components, focussed on the water/ weather-proof characteristics. “To ensure the system remains fully operational through time and in any situation, even under severe conditions,” he added. “In the majority of standard applications, the internal mechanical load-bearing structure enables the installation of arrays without any expensive complex external mechanical structures being required.” www.outline.it

KICK OFF

RENKUS HEINZ SCOTIABANK ARENA Scotiabank Arena sits in the heart of downtown Toronto, near the banks of Lake Ontario. A multipurpose arena hosting the NBA’s Toronto Raptors and NHL’s Toronto Maple Leafs games, the venue took centre stage in the 2019 NBA Finals when the Raptors clinched the franchise’s first championship. The Maple Leafs Sports and Entertainment (MLSE) organisation provides a public area for fans to congregate during both home and away matches.

The official name of the location is Maple Leaf Square – but when the Raptors play it transforms into the colloquially named ‘Jurassic Park’.

The location provides a nearly three-story-tall, high resolution LED wall for viewing games outdoors. And to ensure the 5,000 fans who pack the square can also hear the game, the arena relies on Renkus-Heinz’ ICLive X Series loudspeakers.

The ICLive X series is the culmination of over a decade of experience in steerable line arrays, and is the latest evolution of the medium-format, steerable line array in the Renkus-Heinz line. The ICLive X module defines flexibility - it can be arrayed up to 12 units tall in minutes, making it perfect for jobs of all sizes, including the largest of stadium installations.

Further, the ICLive X offers all the benefits of Renkus-Heinz steerable technology - allowing for sound to be digitally positioned precisely where you want it - on the audience.

“There were a number of critical demands to meet on this project,” said Bill Coons, Director at Contact Distribution, who worked to bring the project to life. “The city had an absolute mandate to significantly contain sound below 40 ft due to a nearby residential, hotel and office spaces. Added to that was the criteria that any loudspeaker considered for the project had to be less than 11-inches wide as there was minimal space on each side of the screen. Toss in the harsh weather of Toronto, as well. And,

of course, this was in addition to the need to be loud enough to project sound at least 200 ft. The ICLive X quickly became the only system on the market to meet those requirements.”

Renkus-Heinz’ industry-leading digitally steerable technology and accompanying software, RHAON, allowed the Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment technicians to ensure every fan receives consistent, crystal-clear audio – whether they are 30 ft from the screen - or 300 feet. This is key during sporting events – both intelligibility of the announcers and the immersive sound of the game required to keep those in the square engaged.

The sound in the venue’s outdoor viewing area is powered by 10 weather resistant ICLive X loudspeakers. Installed in the left and right lower corners of the square behind a perforated border. Six loudspeakers are located on the north side of the screen and four are positioned on the right. The idea behind the installation is to flank the location with sound.

The core goal of the MLSE organisation is to provide the ultimate fan experience. Their vision went beyond the limitations of walls, and allows for those outside the arena to still feel immersed in the action.

“Our objective with the new, larger screen was to take things up a notch,” said Courtney Ross, Head of Audio at MLSE. “So, of course, we wanted to take the audio up a notch as well. When Brandon Heinz showed up from Renkus-Heinz to personally commission the system he simply loaded all the settings we’d previously engineered in the design phase. In less than five minutes the system was ready to go. We played some music on it and our tech staff instantly knew it was great.” www.renkus-heinz.com

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KICK OFF

NEXO QATAR UNIVERSITY SPORT AND EVENTS COMPLEX Qatar University Sport and Events Complex (QUSEC) is the biggest venue of its kind in the Middle East. Not only has its cutting-edge audio technology won awards for its systems integrator and installer Techno Q, the QUSEC venue is also the largest fixed installation ever supplied by NEXO with its sound reinforcement products, and a stellar example of technical synergy between Yamaha’s Active Field Control (AFC) system and NEXO loudspeaker technology, using more than 320 NEXO loudspeakers from eight different product families.

The QUSEC facility is located on Qatar University’s campus in Doha, two multi-functional venues which serve the sports curriculum activities and are also super-adaptable for presentation ceremonies, major competitions and other events, functions and exhibitions.

The extensive Multipurpose Hall hosts ceremonial and staged events for an audience of 5,000; sporting events for 3,200; and banquets for 900 - all by means of retractable seating, lighting, rigging, ceiling, suspended curtains, and a 30-metre x nine-metre portable staging. Including the adjacent 36-metre x 67-metre Training Hall, the QUSEC complex can accommodate more than 30 fixed and portable sport courts for Volleyball, Basketball, Indoor Tennis, Futsal, Badminton, Squash and Handball.

A Yamaha/NEXO audio system design, combining Yamaha’s AFC spatial processing with multiple NEXO loudspeaker sources, has been implemented in both the Multipurpose Hall and the Training Hall, switchable between big sporting competitions or intimate staged events.

All systems were supplied through Yamaha Music Gulf, and NEXO’s Engineering Support Division was heavily involved in the design stages and tuning/commissioning services. For Techno Q, winning the AVIXA award for the project was well-earned, recognising how, by working with Yamaha and NEXO, the company created a remarkably adaptable space at QUSEC for a wide range of activities. www.nexo-sa.com

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AUDIO SYSTEM DESIGN

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ELECTRO-ACOUSTIC DESIGN PRODUCTION

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LIFE SAFETY SYSTEM DESIGN |

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NETWORK & WI-FI DESIGN

VIDEO SYSTEM INTEGRATION |

INSTALLATION

SERVICE & MAINTENANCE

NETWORK As venue integration and production technologies develop into all IP-based protocols, Pro Media is at the forefront of design to provide converged network solutions that incorporate data management, high density Wi-Fi, and the backbone for the installed integrated audio, control and video network.

LIFE SAFETY SYSTEM DESIGN Pro Media designs AV and Life Safety Systems that are innovative and operate on integrated and redundant network platforms, coupled with electro-acoustic design solutions to meet with building standards requirements. The designs are project managed and implemented within large-scale stadiums, arenas and corporate AV venues that require both high quality performance and life safety systems.

AUDIO SYSTEM DESIGN We have been revolutionising the design and application of both professional and commercial audio systems for over 55 years, so it is no surprise that our global-based expertise in providing large format distributed and point source sound reinforcement systems for a large range of venues is unrivaled.

ELECTRO-ACOUSTIC DESIGN At Pro Media, we have a team of highly qualified and experienced in-house electro-acoustic design engineers that create loudspeaker solutions that work both technically and commercially to address all aspects of our clients’ requirements, vastly increasing the efficiency of the development process.

We also provide on-site measurement and analysis of audio systems performance, room acoustics and development of 3D acoustic models.

HIGHLIGHTED PROJECT SOFI STADIUM

Registered Office 104 The Green, Twickenham TW2 5AG, UK

Pro Media provided the engineering, installation and commissioning for the audiovisual systems at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, California, consisting of a fully networked system, converged with the building-wide network. Cutting-edge technology was installed for the main bowl sound system, clubs, team spaces, and suites. A distributed IPTV system and twenty-two video walls are located throughout the building.

Team locker rooms, conference rooms, restrooms, gates, and concessions also have a full audio-visual complement.

Phone +44 (0)20 8185 0801

Web promediaaudiovideo.com

AUDINATE ESTADIO UNICO MADRE DE CIUDADES Estadio Unico Madre de Ciudades is the largest stadium in the province of Santiago del Estero with a capacity of 29,000. Completed in October 2020, the stadium will host matches for upcoming editions of the Copa America and the Supercopa Argentina.

To meet the project’s deadline, the audiovisual integration firm working on the stadium, Equaphon Sistemas de Sonido SRL, found a unique way to integrate the stadium’s audio system, while still adhering to all health and safety restrictions in place due to COVID-19 - all thanks to the trust they put in Audinate’s Dante audio network platform.

Dante is the de facto standard for digital audio networking, and distributes hundreds of uncompressed, multi-channel digital audio channels via standard Ethernet networks with near-zero latency and perfect synchronisation. Dante allows audio, control, and all other data to coexist effectively on the same network.

“Dante saves on costs and ensures the stadium can expand and scale the system as needed,” said Francisco Maiocchi, member of the Equaphon Engineering Department. “Dante also offers many great audio control and management benefits. Dante was always part of our integration plan.”

What wasn’t part of the plan was the global pandemic. Equaphon management was faced with reducing the number of staff it had on-site during the integration process due to social distancing requirements. They discovered that Dante would enable a modified number of staff to be on-site without compromising the quality of work or timeline.

“We quickly realised that with Dante we could work on all the routing, programming and testing from our headquarters, which is located 600 miles away,” said Alberto Escriña, member of the Equaphon Engineering Department. “We sent a small team to the site for just a few days of installation, adjustment and measurement and we did mostly everything else remotely. When we finished, the system sounded incredible.”

The Equaphon staff at the company’s headquarters in Buenos Aires used remote desktop-sharing software to access Dante Controller software running on-site at the stadium. Dante Controller provides essential device status information and powerful real-time network monitoring - including device-level latency and clock stability stats, multicast bandwidth usage, and customised event logging.

The Equaphon team was able to use Dante Controller to easily backup, restore, move, and reuse Dante network configurations through presets. The ability to edit Dante routing configurations – both online and offline – was also beneficial. This process allowed for an efficient and effective remote setup, resulting in less time on the road for the Equaphon team.

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“Our team only had to be on-site for a few days for the physical installation,” Alberto said. “That further reduced the cost of the project as it lowered travel and lodging expenses.”

The project features a robust Dante network throughout the stadium’s audio workflow, all running on a local fibre-optic network. Included in the installation are 19 Powersoft Quattrocanali 4804 DSP+D amplifiers and two Powersoft Mezzo 322 AD amplifiers - all of which use Dante networking.

The main matrix is a Xilica Solaro FR1 digital signal processor with Dante connectivity. Two Xilica Solaro XIO-8 I/O expansion frames are used where analog audio signals may need to be added into the Dante system.

Eight STS Linea V15i loudspeaker arrays are mounted around the stadium, providing audio coverage of the stands. The V15i loudspeakers use Quattrocanali 4804 DSP+D units for amplification and to connect to the Dante network.

“The system sounds amazing and the client is very happy,” Francisco said.

“Without Dante we would have had a lot of challenges here. Instead, we used Dante, and we were able to get an amazing system working very easily.” www.audinate.com

KICK OFF

AURA AUDIO XQ XQ-subwoofers by Aura Audio are designed to give the biggest punch from the smallest footprint in space limited installations. Similarly at home in a typical round sporting venue and particularly at the centre cluster, this subwoofer is a real space-saver. XQ48 features four 18-inch long-excursion neodymium magnet cone drivers (four-inch voice coil) and weights only 101kg while able to reach 150dB peak SPL! www.auraaudio.fi

BIAMP COMMUNITY LVH-900 Biamp’s Community LVH-900 Beamforming Venue Horn is designed for extraordinary performance in large venues, providing high-output, widebandwidth, and consistent coverage. Combined with Amplified Loudspeaker Controllers (ALCs), the LVH-900 meets the sound requirements for music and speech reinforcement in houses of worship, stadiums, theatres, and other large venues. Both indoor and outdoor weather-resistant models are available.

Each LVH-900 loudspeaker consists of four 12-inch low frequency drivers, three Community M200 midrange compression drivers, and four 1.5-inch high frequency compression drivers. The LVH-900 offers over 12 coverage patterns and limitless possibilities from four base models - Active Standard models LVH-906/AS and LVH909/AS and Active Plus models LVH-906/AP and LVH-909/AP, with fixed horizontal patterns of either 60° or 90°. Through electronically-controlled variable vertical coverage, a single Active Standard cabinet can provide vertical coverage of 20°, 40°, or 60° with up to 137 dB continuous max SPL (143 dB Peak), while dual-cabinet arrays of Active Plus models offer vertical coverage patterns of 20°, 80°, or 100° with up to 140 dB continuous max SPL (146 dB Peak).

LVH-900 is the industry’s first Beamforming Venue Horn. Beamforming provides the ability to combine multiple LVH-900 cabinets into seamless acoustic arrays with a myriad of potential coverage combinations. All coverage patterns and rigging hardware (Array Frame, Pull Back Bar and Splay Plates) are available from Biamp in a single, unified GLL file, allowing for an extremely efficient workflow which makes for easier project design.

AS cabinets and AP arrays can be mixed and matched, and any array configuration can be changed quickly without adding another GLL file.

The unified GLL approach allows for quick, efficient evaluation of array configurations in EASE Focus prior to exporting the configuration into EASE 4 for more in-depth analysis. The EASE Focus report contains all of the array details including cabinet type, aiming angle, and Splay Plate type.

With its advanced features, highly focused dispersion patterns, weatherresistant options, and sonic excellence, LVH-900 loudspeakers not only make installations fast and simple, but as functionally effective as possible. www.biamp.com/LVH

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DANLEY SWIM RVA SwimRVA is the largest aquatic centre in Richmond, Virginia, and its beautiful 50-metre competition pool with ample mezzanine spectator seating remains in nearly-constant use by local schools, clubs, classes and members. Last year, SwimRVA hosted a portion of the US Open Swim Championships, which were covered on ESPN. To improve SwimRVA’s ability to attract similar big-name events in the future, and to improve the spectator experience for the myriad events SwimRVA routinely hosts, regional AV integration firm RTW Media recently installed five Danley SBH20 column-form loudspeakers for spectator coverage. Danley’s patented technologies deliver incredible pattern control and phase coherent intelligibility, and Danley’s optional weatherproof construction will extend the new system’s life in the pool room’s extremely challenging atmosphere.

“By all accounts, the previous sound system was terrible,” explained Zack Guida, Logistics Manager at RTW Media. “The previous loudspeakers were big and boomy and threw sound all over the room. The system was straight-up unintelligible.

Period.” The technicians at RTW Media added acoustic treatments to the ceiling in the form of sound-absorbing fabrics that now hang down between support structures and soak up excessive acoustical energy. That is a big help, and the entire room sounds better overall. However, new loudspeakers with excellent pattern control and tremendous fidelity would still be required to deliver the kind of intelligibility that SwimRVA required.

“There’s lots of advice on the Internet for how to build a church sound system, but you’re not going to find similar advice for aquatic centres,” Zack observed. “At SwimRVA, we didn’t need low-mid response, and the existing subwoofers would fill in the deep low end without affecting intelligibility. We have had great success with Danley’s patented point-source loudspeaker

technology in the past, and we knew it would provide the directivity and fidelity that we needed at SwimRVA. The Danley SBH20 column-form loudspeaker has the very tight vertical and very wide horizontal pattern control that we needed for the mezzanine seating, and it is purposely designed without a lot of low-mid output. That was exactly what we needed.”

RTW Media demoed the system for SwimRVA and received commitment for the installation. Zack’s design called for five Danley SBH20 loudspeakers distributed evenly in front of the long mezzanine seating area. Importantly, Zack ordered the SBH20s with Danley’s optional weatherising treatment. “It’s so humid in there that everything breaks,” he said. “Danley’s weatherising is the best in the industry, and that was critical at SwimRVA.” He continued: “The spectator system at SwimRVA went from unusable to amazing! They couldn’t be any happier. It went so well that they are looking forward to upgrading to Danley TH115 subwoofers in the next month or so, too.” www.danleysoundlabs.com

MAG AUDIO BOZSIK ARENA Bozsik Arena, a new, multipurpose stadium in Budapest, Hungary opened this year. The stadium is a home arena for the Kispest Honved Football Club, where the legendary football player, Ferenc Puskás, started his career.

Now, it’s a completely new sports arena, adorned in red and black colours of Honved FC, which has a capacity of 8,200 seats and meets the UEFA 4 category standards. AVmax System Integration company won the audiovisual design for the arena with the sound design project applying loudspeakers from MAG Audio.

The purpose of the sound system is to provide live or streamed information at the stands, as well as high-quality music reproduction. The sound system is also aimed for emergency announcements and as a supplement for the fire alarm system. The main requirements are high SPLs and the right coefficient for speech intelligibility in order to meet the stadium safety requirements.

“This design is very flexible to test, and it’s easy to modify and expand, so the building’s audio system is timeless and flexible, as well as adaptable to the changing needs,” explained sound engineers from AVmax System Integration.

The sound system is based on MAG AIR-152 IP - a powerful installationdedicated system with a 15-inch coaxial subwoofer. These loudspeaker systems operate in a normal non-peak mode and create the required SPL level and high speech intelligibility, which is vital to the stadium’s atmosphere.

It also has IP54-rated weather-resistance, which allows convenient use in outdoor venues.

“The broadband, high-performance, high-pressure loudspeakers are weatherresistant. The 42 pieces of MAG AIR-152 IP loudspeakers were placed under the roof facing the grandstands, and the amplifiers were installed close to the loudspeakers to achieve the lowest possible signal loss”.

In the design and construction of the sound system, AVmax engineers took into account the need to ensure adequate sound pressure and speech

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intelligibility in the open stand and in the areas delimiting the other sides, in addition to the background noise generated by fans and audiences. “During testing, the speech intelligibility measured in the empty stadium was STI PA≥ 0.64 at sound pressure of 81.4 dBA. The direct sound pressure was 103 dBA in the range of 125 Hz to 5,000 Hz - this was produced by the system for more than one minute without overheating, distortion and failure.”

The stadium has already welcomed several matches this year, as it was selected as one of the venues to host the 2021 UEFA European Under-21 Championship. And even though the first matches took place without an audience due to COVID-19 restrictions, the opening quarter-finals match between the Netherlands and France got an attendance of almost 1,700 spectators. True football fans enjoyed the real-life football experience to the utmost - with true emotions, true atmosphere and true high-quality sound. www.mag-audio.com

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DYNACORD GLOBE LIFE FIELD The flexibility of Dynacord electronics is at the heart of the audio system at Globe Life Field in Arlington, TX. As the new home of the Texas Rangers and venue for the 2020 MLB World Series, the ballpark has already received a lot of recognition in its short life, including for the high-quality sound reinforcement it provides for game days and a wide range of additional events.

AV systems integration for the project was undertaken by Diversified in collaboration with consultants WJHW. The integrator took on multiple aspects of the project, from the installed AV around the concourses to the broadcast cabling, IPTV and the control room.

Focussing purely on the sound, the installation features loudspeakers, amplifiers and DSP from multiple manufacturers with different products selected due to their capabilities for a specific job. This led to the challenge of ensuring each element from different brands was performing to its optimum level. The solution came from the flexibility of Dynacord to work well and communicate directly with third party manufacturers. Globe Life Field became one of the first venues to benefit from using validated third-party loudspeaker presets for Dynacord power amplifiers via SONICUE sound system software.

SONICUE has been designed to solve the real-world challenges of sound engineers. It offers integrated visibility and direct access to all system parameters in real time. It can also be used to design standalone, customised applications with functions and controls for PC and the TPC-1 touch panel controller. SONICUE also offers plugins for third party integration. This gives consultants, contractors and live sound companies the flexibility to use loudspeakers from multiple brands with a single state-of-the-art power and control platform.

The key area where this has been used at Globe Life Field is within the main bowl. The solution covering the spectator seating areas features loudspeakers

from four different brands which, thanks to SONICUE, can all be driven

by Dynacord IPX series amplifiers. These multi-channel amplifiers for fixed installations are extremely powerful with a power density of up to 20 kW from a single amplifier with all channels driven. IPX series amplifiers are equipped with unique technologies for the highest audio quality, energy efficiency and system protection. These include Eco Rail, which can reduce power consumption by up to 50%. Ghost Power resolves the issue by overcoming reboot issues that could occur during a short-term power outage or a transition to a secondary power source, ensuring the amplifiers have sufficient power supply to maintain DSP through generator startup. IPX achieves this without the need for expensive UPS systems or non-network components.

A further unique aspect of the installation has seen Globe Life Field become the first location to use Dynacord’s new Q-SYS plugin for audio routing in SONICUE. With Q-SYS running as the main DSP for the stadium, this plugin allowed Diversified to create a full audio network that combined every element of the AV system throughout Globe Life Field via the Dante protocol and Q-SYS and further highlights the flexibility of the Dynacord amplifiers.

Away from the amplification, the stadium also features security cameras from Bosch, EVID series loudspeakers and RE20 announcer microphones from Electro-Voice, and IP intercoms from RTS. While the pandemic means the stadium wasn’t able to welcome fans through the doors when it first opened, the work of Diversified and the flexible approach of Dynacord’s engineering means that everyone will be able to enjoy a premium experience with the Texas Rangers. www.dynacord.com

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KICK OFF POWERSOFT XI’AN OLYMPIC CENTRE STADIUM As the largest and most versatile sports venue in the Shaanxi Province of Northwest China, the Xi’an Olympic Centre Stadium is due to host the opening ceremony and track and field competitions for China’s 14th National Games in September.

With an immense size of 866,667sq metres, the newly built venue boasts three main zones: the stadium, with 60,000 seats; the gymnasium with 18,000, and the natatorium with 4,000. The responsibility of designing a high-quality audio system spanning across these three zones was given to Powersoft’s Chinese distributor, EZPro. EZPro chose to rely on a total of 236 Eastern Acoustic Works’ (EAW) loudspeakers, nine Allen & Heath digital mixers, and four Symetrix digital processors all powered by 43 Powersoft Quattrocanali 4804 DSP+D amplifiers and controlled by ArmoníaPlus.

After investigating each venue’s size and acoustic conditions, and recognising speech comprehension as the most vital aspect of the audio set up, EZPro decided that the three venues of the sports centre were to be given different system layouts.

“Speech comprehension was the most significant aspect of the audio requirements, with the upcoming games and competitions held in a venue relying heavily on commentary,” explained Yongjun Jiang, EZPro’s Technical Manager of the project.

EZPro chose to use 136 EAW loudspeakers for the stadium. Driving these loudspeakers are 34 of Powersoft’s Dante enabled Quattrocanali 4804 DSP+D amplifiers.

“With reliability as the most vital requirement, choosing amplifiers that were up to the immense task of driving this system was crucial,” said Yongjun. “Powersoft amplifiers have an incredible reputation, we knew them to be highly efficient and extremely reliable, not to mention their immense power output, which made them the perfect choice for us.”

EZPro wanted to avoid potential failure throughout the signal path of the audio system, which is where Powersoft’s Quattrocanali powerful DSP processing became vital.

“The built in DSP modules Powersoft offer were incredibly useful, like the advanced EQ,” continued Yongjun. “And with lengthy cable runs like the ones we used for this installation, the active damping control feature was also essential.”

For the diamond shaped gymnasium, sound reverberation presented another challenge, along with the need for the space to transform into a basketball court or an ice hockey rink when needed. For this area, EZPro opted for a total of 70 EAW loudspeakers and a single Powersoft Quattrocanali 4804 DSP+D to provide ample power and high-quality audio to the system.

The natatorium features 30 EAW loudspeakers powered by eight Powersoft Quattrocanali 4804s DSP+D, along with two Allen & Heath digital mixers and two Symetrix processors.

“The Powersoft amplifiers play a significant role throughout the entire venue,” said Yongjun. “The amplifiers are capable of detecting and switching channels automatically as required, whilst dealing with all the digital and analogue signals flawlessly.”

The immense system is supported by ArmoníaPlus, Powersoft’s system design software which has been devised to allow for simplistic control of complicated installations. The software allowed EZPro to speed up the initial system commissioning phase, thanks to its loudspeaker preset models, and has continued to be an essential part of the system control.

“The clear and intuitive user interface of ArmoníaPlus is a crucial asset to the installation for daily system operation,” said Yongjun. “The offline editing functions, quick set up and group control functions are extremely practical for the install.”

The entire installation spanned just over a year and was completed in July 2020. “Overall we are really pleased with how the installation turned out,” said Yongjun. “Everything went exactly as we planned, and the delivery and final result have been commended by the client.” www.powersoft.com

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HARMAN PROFESSIONAL CAIRO INTERNATIONAL STADIUM An extension of Cairo International Stadium, the Cairo Stadium Indoor Halls Complex is a multi-use facility featuring four Olympic-standard indoor sports arenas. Over two weeks in January 2021, the venue hosted the World Men’s Handball Championship in its 16,900-capacity Main Hall and 1,620seat Hall 2. Although functional and visually impressive, the venue wasn’t designed with acoustic performance in mind, possessing a long reverberation time which made providing intelligible sound reinforcement challenging.

Additionally, the venue’s structural design limits the amount of weight that can be hung from the ceiling, creating the need for a lightweight yet highquality audio solution. Adding yet another challenge, the International Handball Federation (IHF) enforces a maximum sound pressure level limit, as well as a mandatory minimum standard of speech intelligibility.

To overcome the venue’s limitations and meet the IHF’s stringent audio standards, event organisers turned to Audio Technology, a Cairo-based fullservice provider of professional audio equipment. Audio Technology designed and implemented a full HARMAN Professional audio solution across both halls featuring JBL loudspeakers, Crown amplifiers, BSS signal processors and Soundcraft mixing consoles.

“When we started the project, we were concerned that the hall would need to be treated because of a high reverberation time,” said Mario Abadeer, Presales Pro Systems Head, Audio Technology. “We suggested some materials that would improve this, but when we installed the loudspeakers, what they heard was so impressive, they decided they didn’t need any sound treatment after all.”

In the Main Hall, Audio Technology Installed JBL VTX V20 three-way line array loudspeakers on a circular truss hanging from the centre of the room. With dual 10-inch neodymium Differential Drive subwoofers in each 88-pound cabinet, the VTX V20 delivers low-frequency response down to 60 Hz, eliminating the need for heavy subwoofers. In Hall 2, Audio Technology hung four clusters of compact JBL VTX A8 line array loudspeakers with VTX B18 subwoofers from a ceiling-mounted circular truss similar to the Main Hall.

The combination of lightweight dual eight-inch loudspeakers and powerful 18-inch subwoofers provided the ideal balance of sound quality and power, while staying within safe weight limits. Both the VTX V20 and VTX A8 feature advanced, proprietary waveguides for broad, consistent coverage throughout both halls.

“We had to remove the subwoofers, and for that we needed to use a larger Differential Drive in order to achieve the lower frequencies,” said Mario. “This

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was in the specs of the JBL VTX V20. It’s a very, very impressive loudspeaker.

And, when playing music through the VTX A8, the organisers could hear a complete frequency response. They were very pleased with the quality.”

In addition to the audience-facing VTX Series loudspeakers, Audio Technology deployed four JBL AC2212/95 loudspeakers in each hall to provide sound coverage for the players and referees on the court. With their wide dispersion angle, the AC2212/95 loudspeakers ensured players could clearly hear instructions from officials, as well as the bell marking the end of each half.

To power the sound systems in both halls, Audio Technology selected Crown I-Tech HD Series and DCi Network Series amplifiers, which feature onboard EQ and delay for crystal-clear sound quality, as well as remote monitoring tools for convenience and loudspeaker protection. For precise control of sound reinforcement, Audio Technology provided Soundcraft Vi1 and Si Performer 3 mixing consoles, which feature a variety of flexible input and output options, powerful digital signal processing capabilities and colour-coded FaderGlow technology for intuitive operation and visual feedback. BSS Soundweb London BLU Series networked signal processors provide flexible routing capabilities, allowing sound reinforcement personnel to easily configure and monitor the system.

“The Crown amplifiers already have the full presets for our loudspeakers,” said Mario. “Through the software, you can see every circuit. You have everything, and you can manage it from one place. You don’t need to go through different software in order to check the status of the system or the status of the amplifiers.”

The audio systems deployed by Audio Technology at the Cairo Stadium Indoor Halls Complex met and surpassed the IHF’s standards, providing clear, intelligible sound at safe sound pressure levels without the need for any acoustic treatment in the Main Hall or Hall 2.

“Hosting the 2021 World Men’s Handball Championship was an incredible privilege,” said Samir Shawkey, Project Coordinator. “Going into the event, we wanted to ensure that spectators and players alike had the best possible experience. With the help of Audio Technology, we were able to install a JBL Professional loudspeaker system that met the requirements of the International Handball Federation, as well as our own high standards. The quality and clarity is excellent. We’re thrilled with the results.” www.pro.harman.com

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CLAIR GLOBAL INTEGRATION DODGER STADIUM Built in 1962, Dodger Stadium is an iconic landmark in America’s vibrant MLB legacy. As the home of Los Angeles baseball, the venue continues to undergo phased improvements to become ultra-modernised with tech, while retaining the historical character fans love.

Clair Global Integration remains on hand to deliver on expectations and live audience experiences thanks to its unrivalled knowledge in this field. The mid-century sporting venue has been undergoing state-of-the-art renovations since 2013, with its most recent upgrade taking place in 2020.

To date, Clair has been charged with installing a new centre field sound system that covers the entire stadium, a centre field canopy fill sound system, a new sound system for the centre field club spaces, restrooms, gates and Plaza, a new control room frontend and 8CH-wireless microphone package.

The stadium has also been updated to Dante Audio transport, bridging to AVB for its new deployment of L-Acoustics.

The campus-wide work is being carried out under the direction of prestigious architect Janet Marie Smith, alongside the venue’s key decision makers.

The latest practices in engineering and production were used and have enabled Dodger Stadium to contend as one of Major League Baseball’s finest examples.

Today, the stadium is undoubtedly one of the best-sounding sports venues in North America. High end products from BSS, Crown, JBL, Yamaha and Shure were utilised for the design, with L-Acoustics K2 line source arrays taking up residency as the PA of choice.

The Dodger Stadium sound system now comprises two PA towers supporting a total of 62 K2 loudspeakers: 20 enclosures are flown in both the L-R main arrays, flanked by adjacent side arrays of 11 further K2 per tower. For lowend reinforcement, 21 SB28 subwoofers are positioned on the right field tower, with three SB28 on the left field side. There are 20 coaxial X8 serving as L-R Pavilion delay fills. To enhance the fan experience as they enter the expansive centre field plaza, coverage is provided by four arrays of L-Acoustics

A15i loudspeakers. The entire system is powered by 32 L-Acoustics LA12X amplified controllers.

Putting systems of this scale into the Los Angeles area comes with its own unique requirements, as Demetrius Palavos, Project Executive for Clair Global Integration, explained: “In addition to keeping the sound system installation’s look consistent with the architecture of this iconic stadium, we also had to meet Southern California’s seismic requirements.”

With the ultimate live experience at the heart of many of its projects, Clair Global Integration also provided a portable crowd noise enhancement system to the Dodgers’ 2020 season. Cut short due to the impact of COVID-19, this system allowed the players to enjoy an atmospheric environment while adhering to safety guidelines during the pandemic.

As outdoor sports in the Greater Los Angeles area begin to welcome back crowds in small numbers this summer, fans of MLB and the Dodgers can be rest assured they’ll be met with the best sonic quality following their longawaited return. www.clairglobal.com/integration

MEYER SOUND LEOPARD M80 Meyer Sound’s LEOPARD M80 is a new variant of the LEOPARD loudspeaker designed for focussed coverage and long-throw applications. LEOPARD-M80 is identical to the existing LEOPARD design except that it provides a precisely controlled 80° horizontal pattern instead of the 110° coverage of the original model.

“LEOPARD has been one of the most successful loudspeakers in our company history and is by far the best-selling member of our line arrays,” noted Meyer Sound Vice President and Chief Loudspeaker Designer, Pablo Espinosa. “With the introduction of LEOPARD-M80, we will extend this remarkable success by offering system designers more options for tailoring coverages to the exact requirements of the venue.”

Because the vertical coverage and rigging hardware are identical to the original LEOPARD, the new LEOPARD-M80 may be configured in mixed arrays of both loudspeaker variants. LEOPARD-M80 loudspeakers in the upper array section provide focussed, long-throw coverage, while LEOPARD loudspeakers below spread horizontal coverage for closer seating sections. Arrays configured with only LEOPARD-M80 loudspeakers can offer a long throw with reduced spill to the sides of the array. This can be advantageous in narrow venues with reflective side walls, as well as in outdoor applications where side spill into adjacent areas must be minimised to conform to noise regulations.

LEOPARD-M80 also affords additional system configuration options. LEOPARD enables tighter horizontal control across a broad spectrum of outfill, centre fill and delay applications when used in large-scale systems with LEO and LYON main line array systems. All current Meyer Sound line array loudspeakers share a common acoustical signature, affording seamless transitions among main and auxiliary arrays.

In both variants, LEOPARD’s innovative amplifier, driver and horn designs ensure linear response over a wide dynamic range. LEOPARD also offers

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exceptional phase coherence, consistent coverage patterns, extremely low distortion and high power-to-size and weight ratios. Basic LEOPARD arrays can be quickly configured in Native Mode for optimum performance with minimal external processing. The narrow profile and limited weight make LEOPARD arrays an ideal choice for mid-sized touring acts and fixed installations where portability, scalability, and ease of rigging are essential.

“With LEOPARD-M80 we are offering system designers and rental companies yet another option to create high-performance, cost-effective systems for any application,” said Pablo. “From a small club with LINA arrays up to massive stadium and festival systems with LEO main arrays scaling down through LYON and LEOPARD fill and delay systems. LEOPARD-M80 is an important new addition to the industry’s largest and most widely adopted family of selfpowered line arrays.” www.meyersound.com

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L-ACOUSTICS PHOENIX SUNS ARENA It’s had multiple names since opening in 1992, but the Phoenix Suns Arena formerly America West Arena, US Airways Center, Talking Stick Resort Arena, and PHX Arena - has been the home of the NBA Phoenix Suns since day one.

What has changed recently is the venue’s sound, with a new L-Acoustics Kara II system in place just in time for the 2021 NBA season.

Designed by WJHW and installed by Pro Sound & Video, the new Kara II system is part of a $230 million overhaul, designed to convert the arena into a state-of-the-art sports entertainment venue for the Suns and WNBA Phoenix Mercury fans.

Venue management had positive experiences with L-Acoustics in other locations, and the brand is widely accepted by NBA arenas, leading the team to request an L-Acoustics PA system for the renovation, including new distributed sound systems for the arena’s concourses and back-of-house areas.

Kara II was chosen for its light weight and powerful output. “We had to stay within weight limits, especially since the system is designed to be pulled out of the way, potentially, when touring shows come through with their own systems,” explained Pro Sound. “But, this is a large venue, with seating capacity of over 18,000 and the sound needs to cover the entire seating area and court. Kara II is not only compact and lightweight, but it also has a lot of power for its size. And it offers a lot of sonic transparency as well.

Phoenix Suns Director of Engineering and Audiovisual Technology, Gary Gillespie, agreed: “I’m also a live-sound mixer, so I’ve had a lot of experience with L-Acoustics, and I’m a fan of their sound,” he said. “But our team leadership also highly values the intelligibility that Kara II brings and the fact that L-Acoustic’s WST systems never cause ear fatigue for the fans. It’s just a great-sounding system.”

The system comprises six arrays of 14 Kara II, plus a hang of four cardioid-

configured SB18i subwoofers flown directly behind each array. 28 short-throw X12 coaxials are deployed as a delay ring, all powered by 43 LA4X amplified controllers. A single LA12X powers eight A10 loudspeakers positioned underneath the centre-mounted scoreboard serving as court fills. Selfpowered, coaxial 108P monitors are installed in the new media editing suite to replicate the response of the Kara II main bowl system.

The new sound system design originally called for eight hangs of Kara. With last year’s addition of Panflex to the original Kara model, providing four-inone directivity, Kara II was a ‘game-changer’ for the Suns. Now, one box could cover any audience geometry, offering consistent coverage and precisely focused SPL in four directivity patterns: 70° or 110° symmetrical and 90° asymmetrical. That prompted design changes that allowed just six arrays to cover the bowl without having to alter the product specification.

The team took an additional 28 Kara II as onsite production inventory to be used as a flexible multi-use, in-house special-events audio system. Those extra enclosures came in very handy when the NBA directed teams to implement enhanced crowd-noise systems for the current season. The additional inventory is dedicated to the virtual crowd-noise system developed by Firehouse Productions for the NBA’s Orlando ‘bubble’, now in place at most NBA venues.

“Kara II’s Panflex update gave us the extra loudspeakers we needed at exactly the right time,” he said. “We began to see ROI right away on what we had thought would be extra inventory. The system truly makes it sound like a full house. L-Acoustics, Pro Sound & Video, and WJHW really partnered with us to create a greatly enhanced experience for both the fans and the players.” www.l-acoustics.com

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UAEFA PRESIDENT’S CUP FINAL Al Ain, UAE Images: FLASH ART, Done+Dusted, Encore

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aking place at Al Ain’s Hazza bin Zayed Stadium, The President’s Cup Final saw the long-awaited return of fans to UAE stadiums, with around 1,000 socially distant supporters being treated

to a spectacular show – both on and off the pitch. While the on-field action saw Shabab Al Ahli run out 2-1 winners over rivals Al Nasr thanks to two contentious penalty decisions, the impressive pre- and post-match celebrations came thanks to a huge team of live events professionals.

Event Producer, Done+Dusted assembled a team of trusted suppliers, with a mixture of international and local companies coming together to deliver the event. The overseas contingent included the likes of Progressive Productions, Stadium FX, PixMob, and NEWSUBSTANCE, while the extensive lineup of Middle East-based companies included Encore (previously known as eclipse), Creative Technology (CT) Middle East, FLASH ART, Matrix Laser, Gulf Crewing Company, Al Laith, Aggreko, Gallowglass Health & Safety and Dan Bolton Creative

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Management Agency.

The screen was further enhanced by a set of Martin by

The main lighting rig was designed by Nick Collier of

Harman Viper Profiles, which were placed around it to create

Stadium FX, with Encore providing equipment and technical

added depth. “This was a challenging aspect of the build,

support. “From a technical point of view, the project was

as we had to ensure that we had enough height to clear the

straightforward,” began Encore Project Manager, Andre Du

LED screen while also not blocking any of the existing house

Toit. “However, on a human level, it was scarily exciting to

lights that were focused on the pitch,” Sam added.

be back in a stadium producing an event under the current

As well as utilising some of the company’s extensive

conditions.”

inventory of moving lights, the Encore team was also able

Andre led a “small but efficient” team to create an immersive

to connect into the stadium lighting system, both internally

lighting system inside the Hazza bin Zayed Stadium. The

and externally. “This allowed us to control an extra 600 LED

main rig comprised 37 Robe Robin BMFL Blades, 31 SGM P5s,

RGB lights outside as well as an extra 300 stadium floodlights

32 Martin by Harman Viper Profiles, 32 Claypaky Mythos,

internally,” Connolly revealed, going on to describe how

and 30 A.leda B-EYE K10s, along with two 4,000K Lycian

the use of a Luminex DMX MkII system ensured that the

Followspots. Control came from two MA Lighting grandMA2

primary function of the floodlights – illuminating the pitch

full size consoles and a grandMA2 light.

– would never be impacted. “The system allowed us to

“We used the Robe BMFL Blades for front lighting alongside

create snapshots in case we lost network or power during the

the followspots, which we had doing beams at high stadium

show,” he recalled. “If that was to happen, the house lights

levels to create a background light,” described Encore’s Head

would always default to being on.”

of Lighting – UAE, Sam Connolly. The SGM P5s meanwhile

Sam explained how the team was able to monitor the network

were used as a wash/strobe light around a large LED screen at

from BOH, keeping track of power consumption constantly

pitchside. “These created a wide spectrum of colours, which

throughout the install and on show day. “We utilised our

we could play around with during the pre- and post-match

newly purchased smart distros, which were connected to the

ceremonies,” he recalled.

network and allowed us to view our total load consumption

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THE FULL PITCH

and alerted us if there were any issues.” With the event

an event. It was a pleasure to work with Done+Dusted, and

taking place in the inland city of Al Ain, away from the

we’re looking forward to working with them again in the

cooling coastal breeze that Dubai benefits from, the heat

future.”

was a constant challenge. “The sun baked the scaffolding

As is now customary for showpiece football matches in

so hot that even with thick gloves, it began to become an

the UAE, special effects were a key element of the visual

unsafe environment to work in,” recalled Andre. “This meant

spectacle. FLASH ART delivered a rooftop display of close-

that we had to restructure our plan to work mostly at night

proximity pyrotechnic effects during the pre-match

instead of through the hottest times of the day. The night

presentation, as well as the all-important cup-lifting

shifts worked out very well.”

moment.

Aside from the heat, Andre reported a “smooth and simple”

“We set up a line of 60 equidistant firing positions around

delivery – something he puts down to the competence of all

the stadium’s outer circumference, with each position around

involved. “I don’t need to micromanage,” he stated. “We

9m apart,” revealed FLASH ART’s Senior Project Manager,

simply set the agenda in the morning and then the team is

Piotr Szablowski. In all, 2,400 pieces of Spanish single-

busy getting the job done. We set high standards and nothing

shot close-proximity effects were fired within a window of

we do ever falls below those standards. That makes it easy for

just two minutes and 20 seconds, with the display digitally

me as a PM.” And this culture of trust extended throughout

controlled from a single position just under the roof, on the

the wider team. “It was great to work with Done+Dusted.

VIP boxes side of the audience.

Largely they just left us to do our thing, because they know

Piotr explained FLASH ART’s process when it came to

that we’ll do everything safely and in the proper way.

designing the show. “We design our displays in a 3D

“Seeing the closing ceremony, the lifting of the trophy and

environment, which includes a model of the stadium

everything falling into place was fantastic,” Andre concluded.

wherever possible,” he commented. “This software almost

“It was so satisfying to be back to in-person events again.”

automatically produces all the information required on the

Sam agreed: “Everyone was so happy to be back onsite doing

ground by our technical team, as well as firing scripts needed

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034

for the controlling panels.”

smooth process all round.” According to Michael, the biggest

While the “brutal” weather conditions made daytime working

consideration was the health and safety around the placement

difficult, for the FLASH ART team, it wasn’t simply a case

of the lasers.

of working through the night. “The fact that a large portion

“The utmost care was taken to ensure that no lasers would

of our work was performed at a height meant that darkness

strike anyone in the tunnel or any of the cameras that were

is very unwelcome from a health and safety point of view,”

positioned inside the tunnel and around the stadium,” he

said Piotr. “This meant that we had to keep to a very tight

recalled. “We worked in conjunction with the production

schedule and make sure that all of our targets were met.

and camera crews to ensure that the lasers were placed and

Luckily for us, Done+Dusted and the HBZ Stadium crew did

programmed correctly.”

everything they could to facilitate our efforts.”

The visual appeal of the stadium was accentuated yet further

Also weighing in on the SFX front was Abu Dhabi-based

by PixMob’s innovative NOVA pixel, which illuminated the

Matrix Laser, which was tasked with creating a ‘hero effect’,

empty seats. “NOVA is a new way to do light. It’s as bright as

using specialised backlit illumination for each player’s

10 PixMob wristbands but has a battery life to make enough

entrance before kick-off. “The concept was to have a

rehearsals for even the most complex of shows,” stated

show-stopping moment right at the start of the event, with

PixMob President, Jean-Oliver Dalphond. “Abu Dhabi was the

a special moment for each player,” explained Managing

first international use of this innovation designed during the

Director, Michael Hilgemann. To achieve this, six 20W

COVID-19 shutdown to illuminate empty venues.”

RGB lasers and four haze machines were placed behind the

Creative Technology (CT) Middle East provided over 500 sq

entrance to the players’ tunnel to create the backlit effect.

m of LED, a d&b audiotechnik J Series line array, as well

Since the ‘hero entrance’ was not part of the initial concept,

as a fully redundant video and networking system for all

the Matrix Laser team was brought in just three days prior to

show-critical systems, including media servers, screen

the event.

management, LED processing and core networking.

“We were incredibly excited to bring this vision to life, even

“We used two Riedel Artist frames, running in the same Net

at such short notice,” he recalled.

space. Connected to these were 36 Riedel Bolero wireless

“There was no time for a site visit, so all decisions regarding

belt packs, with an antenna system covering the entire

setup were made on the day of load-in. However, with

stadium and surrounding practice fields,” revealed Integrated

significant experience in the events industry, this didn’t

Networks Technical Manager, Rob Turner. Eight Riedel 2312

cause any problems. The bonus of working with a dedicated,

panels were used for operators, and Clear-Com HelixNet

professional and flexible team at Done+Dusted resulted in a

beltpacks were used for outlying operators/technicians.

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THE FULL PITCH

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“Four channels of Motorola SLR5500 repeaters were used

monitored the rigging processes of the LED screen to ensure

to interface four of the channels from the DP4801e radios

crossover was managed safely, and once the install was

used onsite,” Rob added. “A stadium-wide ring of Luminex

complete, we monitored weather conditions and the structure

switches carried all communication and timecode data.”

in accordance with our temporary structures policy.”

Timecode displays used were from Evertz. “The biggest

With just three days to complete the build, the Al Laith team

challenge was the size of the LED screen,” commented Senior

had to be on top of its game. “In addition to the tight time

Project Manager, Dan Hughes. “However, a collaborative

frame, another challenge was positioning the 64 tonnes of

effort from CT, our client and other contractors resulted in a

ballast to its final location, which unfortunately had to be

seamless delivery onsite.”

done through brutal physical labour,” highlighted Jozef.

One such contractor was Al Laith, which took up the

“Typically, we have the luxury of a forklift or crane, but as

challenge of creating an appropriate structure to support

we were building within the grandstand, access did not allow

the 18-tonne screen. “We were challenged to build an

for machinery to be used.”

extremely large LED screen support within the grandstand

As ever, safety was of paramount importance, and Jozef was

of the stadium,” began Project Manager, Jozef Hrinko. “The

happy to report that the entire team conducted the project

final support structure we delivered was 34m by 21m.” The

without incident. “Safety is a core value of our organisation

structure was built using Ring Lock Scaffold and 21 l-Beam

and we spend lots of time training our teams through our in-

Cantilevers. “We also used 64 tonnes of concrete ballast to

house certified training school,” he commented.

counter the weight of the screen and to satisfy our Structural

“We were truly humbled to be chosen by Done+Dusted, who

Engineers’ requirements,” Jozef revealed.

managed this prestigious project really well and we were

Likening the process to “passing the baton in a relay”, Jozef

proud to deliver on time and within budget.”

described how the project was taken from concept to creation.

Overall HSE for the project was overseen by Gallowglass

“First, we focused on understanding the requirements of the

Health & Safety. “With this being the first sporting event

client, followed by a design and engineering phase,” he said.

of the year to have crowds – albeit in a limited capacity –

Once the design was approved, the company went through

Gallowglass worked very closely alongside Done+Dusted,

a detailed scope review and developed a method statement

the venue and UAEFA to make sure that all possible controls

with HSE considerations. “The operational phases required

were implemented and adhered to,” outlined Safety Advisor,

arranging equipment, logistics and delivery and crew

David Armstrong. “From arriving on-site for the build, to the

management,” he added. “Once the structure was built, we

final, then the de-rig, the safety and welfare of all staff and

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THE FULL PITCH

suppliers as well as the general public was maintained.”

Describing how a rigorous COVID-19 strategy was implemented – “and tweaked, when required” – David praised the team spirit of all involved to ensure that the event went off without a hitch. “I could not have asked for more support than I was given from all stakeholders,” he reminisced. “This event went smoothly thanks to the remarkable team unity of everyone involved, for which I am truly grateful.”

Aggreko was brought into the project to provide a fail-proof temporary power solution for the technical show power, site power, as well as air-conditioning power. “We also provided an air-conditioning solution in an outdoor area for spot cooling and for cooling technical equipment,” stated Events Project Manager, John Devine.

With various elements of the show all requiring power, Aggreko supplied multiple generator farms to cater to each, including four synchronised 400kVA generators for technical show power, two synchronised 125kVA generators for BOH and charging for the drone show, and a further four synchronised 125kVA generators for air conditioning power.

“Secondary power consisted of specialised event distribution units, industrial oil-resistant and flame-retardant HO7RN-F cable, and heavy-duty cable ramp protection,” John added.

With the extreme temperatures on-site, air conditioning was vital to keep both the crew and the BOH equipment cool enough to function properly and safely. “With most of the event being outdoors, it’s impossible to cool the entire area,” John acknowledged. “The best option was to provide spot cooling, using 5t split units, which worked well.”

The generator farm location for show power and air conditioning power also provided a challenge, requiring the use of forklifts rather than the usual method of cranes.

“This was because we had to position our generators under the framework of the outer structure of the stadium, which was very tight and had acute gaps,” John explained. “It meant that the load-in was a very slow process, so we didn’t damage any of the stadium structure.”

Aggreko’s Site Project Supervisor, Harry Kumar managed the load-in schedule, working alongside Done+Dusted and the site management team. “Harry arranged all the equipment arrival, labour and crew times as well as the daily works,” John reported, also singling out Engineer, Ryan Basilan for his excellent work on the project. “I could mention lots of names as this was a team effort, from our depots in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, to organising the equipment and getting it to site, along with the on-site team who delivered the event.”

Describing the working relationship with Done+Dusted as “a dream”, John looked back on the project fondly. “This event carried huge amounts of kit, and the team pulled together really well to make it a success,” he recalled. “The client knew the effort that was needed to make this event happen with the restrictions we had to work with, but they were very understanding and supportive throughout.”

In addition to the large technical equipment requirements, a huge human workforce was also called upon, with crewing provided by Gulf Crewing Company (GCC) and volunteers from Al Ain football club also mucking in to help with various elements of the show such as the flag reveal. Dan Bolton of Dan Bolton Creative Management Agency was brought in as an Associate Producer by Done+Dusted to work with both the volunteers and the staging team at Prolab CSM, which designed and produced the stage and managed all the branding elements.

“As soon as the final whistle was blown, we had just 12 minutes to put the stage together in the middle of the pitch, which was a huge challenge,” Dan recalled. With UAE Royalty

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THE FULL PITCH

in attendance, there was no room for delay. “It was a case

Reflecting on the project, Dan praised Done+Dusted for the

of liaising with the client, suppliers and all the various

way the show was managed. “The whole team was a pleasure

stakeholders to facilitate the smooth running of the project

to work with,” he said. “The way they knitted the project

and make sure that everyone was on the same page.”

together was fantastic. It was a great project to be involved

With the stage being assembled in situ and nothing allowed

with.”

to be wheeled onto the pitch, everything had to be carried

He reserved the last word for Staging Manager, Rebecca

by hand. “The GCC team were amazing,” Dan commented.

Bryant. “Rebecca and her team of locally based stage

“We were rehearsing outside in the heat, which must have

managers supported all aspects of the staging throughout the

been exhausting, but when it came to show time, they were

show and ceremonies,” he concluded. “Without their work,

full of energy and they even got the stage up faster than in

my role would have been impossible.”

rehearsal. Without them, we simply could not have done the show.”

“It was an immense privilege to provide the crewing to support an event of this magnitude, particularly with Royal guests in attendance,” added GCC Managing Director, Karen Beaton. “A seamless production from start to finish, we are incredibly proud of our boys, who readily arose to meet the precise requirements and time constraints. It was an incredible achievement.”

WEBSITES: www.aggreko.com, www.allaith.com, www.ct-group.com, www.danbolton.me, www.encore-emea.com, www.flashart.com, www.gallowglasshs.ae, www.gulfcrewing. com, www.matrix-laser.com, www.pixmob.com 040

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4

18 VENUE FOCUS

LIGHTING 044 League of Legends | Shanghai, China 048 Lambeau Field | Green Bay, USA

SOLAR TECHNOLOGY 052 Audi Field | Washington, D.C, USA

CABLING 056 2021 Diriyah E-Prix | Diriyah, Saudi Arabia

LIGHTING

LEAGUE OF LEGENDS Shanghai, China Images: Riot Games

L

eague of Legends’ World Championship 2020 Finals was staged at the new Pudong Football Stadium in Shanghai, China. It was a high-profile, high-energy event notable for many things, which - in addition to being an eSports calendar

highlight - included a spectacular production lighting design by Mat Stovall of LampedUp and his team who helped produce dazzling opening and closing ceremonies plus seat-edge atmospheric engineering, boosting the buzz of the gaming action.

37 Robe RoboSpot systems were part of a large lighting rig for the event, specified by Mat and associate Lighting Designer, Trevor Stirlin Burk of Visual Noise Creative, and supplied by Christie Lites out of their UK and US bases to the event’s main technical contractor, Creative Technology (CT) Shanghai.

Robert Roth coordinated for Christie Lites, working closely with the CT Shanghai team headed by Aaron Ross Durdin, Sam Tibble and Daniel Sun. Mat wanted RoboSpots on the event for several reasons. He needed “a quality white light source” to key talent for the opening and closing shows and during the gaming action, with capacity to cover specific choreographed aspects, plus coach and team ‘moments’ throughout the tournament.

With a massive performance area to cover in the centre of the stadium, Mat was not sure that it would be possible to physically get operators into all the required locations, so RoboSpot was his go-to solution.

The 37 Robe BMFL moving light units were positioned everywhere on the downstage trusses, above and below the two giant LED screens onstage that flanked a huge central scenic Paifang arch, and on top of this elegant 33-metre-high centerpiece of Joe Kale’s impressive scenic design, which was based on the overall show creatively developed by Riot Games’ producers with Possible (Michael Figge).

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The breakdown of the RoboSpot systems was 16 Robe

switches, fibre-optic cables, and Luminex DMX nodes.

BMFL FollowSpot and 21 BMFL FollowSpot LT (long throw)

Being out of the country during a pandemic and not in a

luminaires, all with integral cameras, together with 37 active

position to build a mockup system in advance to verify that

base stations, each linked to the individual lights.

the plan would work was galvanizing, even though he was

They were operated by 14 people, sometimes jumping

confident that with the calibre of the team working on this,

between different systems depending on which section of the

everything would be sortable.

show was playing out at the time. Most operators had not

The RoboSpot control network consisted of 17 Gigabit fibre

used a RoboSpot before, but they all picked it up quickly and

optic switches and 15 Luminex DMX8 Mk2 nodes, which

efficiently.

were essential to act as bridges and transport the RDM

The most experienced operators stayed on all the ‘hero’

communication needed to link the RoboSpot controller and

action downstage, while others were covering the back lights

the moving head with the attached camera.

and some of the more creative angles.

Tom configured the follow spot network to have 40 VLAN’s

The massive task of coordinating this with a mostly non-

(Virtual Area Networks) essentially running 40 different

English speaking crew was relished by Zach Matusow from

networks over a single piece of fibre or copper wire, which

the international team, who is highly experienced in the

allowed each camera to have its own ‘network’ link back to

field. He also called all the spot cues working closely with

the controller, with the operator only able to see a single

CT Shanghai’s crew who helped with the translating and ran

camera on each controller.

some of the RoboSpot units.

This eradicated the chance of a RoboSpot controller viewing a

The operators were corralled in a conference room

camera that it was not controlling!

underneath one of the main grandstands, with no windows

In the control room with all the RoboSpot BaseStations

or line-of-sight to the stage. They did however have multiple

were six managed switches, four 24 port non-managed

monitors showing broadcast camera feeds giving them eyes

gigabit switches, and six Luminex Nodes which enabled

on the action independently to what was showing on their

each controller to have a discrete feed from the appropriate

own separate RoboSpot BaseStation screens.

camera, RDM communication to the appropriate head, and

By far the most challenging element of installing a RoboSpot

receive signal from the lighting console, for tweaking colour,

system of this magnitude was engineering the control, a

intensity, and other parameters.

task tackled by network architect, Tom Buddingh, also part

Tom also designed the main MA-net / sACN ‘show lighting’

of Mat’s core international crew who were coordinated by

network to control the approximately 3,500 fixtures on the

production LX Jason Mack.

main production lighting rig, kept as a completely separate

He utilised a design he had previously successfully used on

network to reduce traffic on the ‘RoboSpot’ network.

smaller RoboSpot systems which involved managed gigabit

To easily accomplish this, he took a hard DMX feed from

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LIGHTING

a node attached to the ‘Lighting Network’ into a node

Trevor worked from his home office in LA, with lighting

connected to the ‘Spot’ network, reducing the hundreds of

director / programmers Tiffany Keys and Mike Appel working

sACN universes to just five.

remotely from LA and Florida, respectively. Early Bird Visuals

With the RoboSpot heads so spread out across the rig and the

helped Mat and his lighting design team with renders and

100-metre limitation of copper ethernet cables, Tom needed a

pre-vis and hosted a Discord session to composite Tiffany

way to distribute the control throughout the venue.

and Mike’s show files on top of each other so they could see a

“I implemented a hybrid trunk / spider network topology

single image in pre-vis from anywhere in the world.

with a couple of main hubs splitting off to distribution points

The gaffers on site were Geoff Knight and Scotty Beck, and

on trusses which accommodated between two and eight

Shaheem Lichtmore was in Shanghai programming lighting

RoboSpot follow spot heads. These four ‘hubs’ and eight

for the backstage activations, gamer key lighting, and key

‘Spider’ distribution points were all connected with Neutrik

light for the local host desk. He also programmed the playoffs

OpticalCon Quad Fiber cable.”

show.

After the initial calibration, with a little tweaking of the

Joining Jason Mack on Mat’s amazing core crew were Adam

managed switch settings and a small change to the cable

Eldridge, Ron Konsur and Brian Davies who with their

connections, he had all the images stable on all RoboSpot

hard work and superlative skillsets coordinated the entire

controllers throughout the show period.

installation on-site liaising between the LOL production and

The network elements were also supplied by Christie Lites.

CT Shanghai.

Riot Games’ technical production company, ConCom, has

Randy Quick was the coordinating Technical Director

been Mat’s client for nearly 10 years, and he was production

for ConCom and Marc Hilko the head of global eSports

lighting designer for their XR playoffs show as well as the

production for Riot Games.

finals. Given the scope of this project and the demands on his

The show directors were Sam Wrench for the Opening /

time, he asked Trevor to collaborate and help keep an eye on

Closing Ceremonies and Riah Chiu for the tournament.

the Finals from the US while Mat was on site in Shanghai.

The tournament winners were South Korea’s DAMWON

Mat and Trevor have worked together on multiple lighting

Gaming who defeated China’s Suning 3 - 1 to claim the 2020

and design projects over the years embracing concert tours,

League of Legends World Championship!

theme park installations, art creations, corporates, and special events.

BRAND: Robe | DISTRIBUTOR: Christie Lites | LIGHTING DESIGNER: Mat Stovall, Trevor Stirlin | TECHNICAL CONTRACTOR: Creative Technology | WEBSITES: www.robe.cz, www. christielites.com, www.ct-group.com WWW.MONDOSTADIA.COM

047

LIGHTING

LAMBEAU FIELD Green Bay, USA Images: Crestron

C

restron, a global leader in commercial lighting control, has become a lighting control vendor for Lambeau Field, the iconic home stadium of the Green Bay Packers in Green Bay, Wisconsin. After an extensive evaluation,

Crestron was selected to replace and upgrade the stadium-wide controls. The Crestron installation is a cohesive lighting automation system that allows stadium management to easily update lighting preferences and closely monitor and control energy expenditures for the facility.

In operation since 1957, Lambeau Field is one of the most legendary and longstanding sporting venues in the United States.

The stadium underwent a significant renovation in 2001 and has added several upgrades and expansions since then. As a result of these two decades of changes, there were over 12 disparate lighting control systems from different manufacturers that were not fully integrated. This sparked the search for a single technology provider that could unify and standardise solutions into one ecosystem.

“This was a unique project in that the customer, the facilities team at Lambeau Field, started by doing their own research into solutions providers rather than by going through an architect or engineering firm to identify a manufacturer for them,” explained Bill Schafer, Vice President of Sales, Commercial Lighting at Crestron.

“It is very rare that an end-user takes on this sort of technology manufacturer recruiting on their own, but when Anne Larson, the Facilities Office Coordinator for Lambeau, reached out to Crestron, we did everything we could to accommodate whatever she needed.

Anne had reached out to just about every manufacturer I could name and each of them was put through a rigorous evaluation, but in the end Crestron’s preparation, eagerness, and overall ability to meet every need ended up winning us the project.”

Bill played a significant role in this project, not only as a huge Green Bay Packers fan, but by ensuring Anne and her team received everything they needed. He assembled the team with the right personnel on board, remained in constant contact during the installation and facilitated whatever was needed to ensure the experience was as comprehensive and stress-free as possible.

The project was a complete design-build that threw many

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challenges at everyone working on the installation. Using

as intended.

Anne’s overview of needs and requirements, along with some

“The decision to standardise on Crestron was an easy one,”

basic information on the venue’s existing system and older

said Anne. “It was evident that Crestron could handle every

construction documents, Crestron was able to backwards

aspect of the project, including meeting required IT security

engineer the system to create a starting point. With no real

standards using Active Directory. We now have one vendor

brief in place, other than to replace the failing panels, the

and one system that is easy to use and update.”

team conducted extensive on-site walkthroughs to validate

Of course, completing a project in the midst of a global

the existing system, note required changes or additions, and

pandemic was always going to be difficult. Restrictions on

from there make revisions to drawings until they were able to

travel and gatherings made it hard to get the team on site,

create a final drawing set and bill of materials.

and the building, shipping and deploying of products became

Lambeau Field transitioned the vast majority of lighting in

much less efficient. As well as this, the looming deadline

the stadium to Crestron, which now controls concourses,

of the start of the football season hung over the project,

suites, club seats, event spaces, parking lots, and façade

which meant that the team working on site not only had

lighting from a single platform. The stadium also

an accelerated timeline, but less capacity and flexibility to

implemented robust information security standards that

accomplish everything on time. Bill explained: “To comply

Crestron built into the makeup of its solutions using Active

with pandemic-era restrictions, yet still produce, ship, and

Directory Credential Management, which integrates the

deploy our products, we built everything in the order that

authentication on a Crestron device with the stadium’s

installers planned to install it.

enterprise-wide IT infrastructure. Through Crestron

“Doing things in this metered style allowed installers to get

monitoring, facilities personnel can proactively keep track

everything they needed on time while easing the burden on

of their system instead of having to react to situations,

the skeleton crew in our factory that was forced to operate at

ensuring that on gameday, they know the system will work

reduced production capacity due to virus-related protocols.

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LIGHTING

This streamlined, metered production and deployment

growth. “Crestron is capable of so much, that as we renovate

strategy resulted in Crestron getting everything shipped from

areas of the building, we’ll have the option to create unique

our factory within just five weeks. These products arrived on

lighting scenes that will only add to the fan experience,”

site with all settings pre-programmed, so installers just had

Anne continued. “With Crestron, the Green Bay Packers are

to install them, and they were ready to go right away.”

confident we can provide a world-class experience for our

To avoid rewiring, Crestron also included an Ethernet bridge

fans for years to come.”

in each cabinet, so contractors could install a panel, take a

“We’re thrilled to partner with one of America’s most beloved

single Cat5 wire to nearest IDF networking closet, plug it

stadiums to implement cutting-edge lighting solutions

into the assigned port, and allow Crestron to remotely turn

aimed to deliver the ultimate fan experience on gameday,”

the panel on and test it without requiring anyone to be in the

concluded Bill. “When designing the new system, our focus

stadium. This drastically reduced the amount of time needed

was on creating a truly unified ecosystem and single point of

for people to be on site. That said, Crestron still put a project

lighting control that helps streamline stadium operations and

manager on site at least once a week, every week, just to

reduce energy consumption. In the last year, stadium usage

provide additional real-time support. Crestron also supplied

and capacity changed dramatically. The new Crestron system

staff local to the project site to oversee the project and ensure

is highly scalable - it can be configured and built upon as the

everything was accomplished on schedule.

stadium’s needs change and we look ahead to the future of

Lambeau Field is exploring the renovation of several other

live events.”

areas, and Crestron also provides extensive flexibility for

BRAND: Crestron | WEBSITES: www.crestron.com WWW.MONDOSTADIA.COM

051

AUDI FIELD Washington D.C, USA Images: SolarEdge Technologies

T

052

o save money and operate sustainably while

design and construction included a solar energy system and

doing so, a growing number of stadiums around

the district guaranteed D.C. United a $25m PACE (property

the world are turning to solar to power their

assessed clean energy) loan from EagleBank.

massive banks of floodlights, sound systems,

After a competitive bidding process, D.C. United chose

luxury boxes and flashing video screens. In fact, according

leading local installer, New Columbia Solar, to design, build,

to a report from SEIA, in the USA alone, solar has supplied

own and operate a 627.8 kW-sized canopy and rooftop PV

sports facilities with 46 megawatts of power – enough for

system from SolarEdge – which is projected to improve

nearly 8,000 homes. Included in this trend is Washington

stadium sustainability and public health in the surrounding

D.C.’s Audi Field, home to one of the most decorated clubs in

communities.

Major League Soccer: D.C. United.

The SolarEdge solution with three phase inverters and P800

As the famed club moved from its historic RFK Stadium to

power optimisers was chosen for its safety, design flexibility

a new home in Southwest, D.C., it became D.C. United’s

and ability to maximise energy yield.

mission to build an environmentally-friendly venue, one that

New Columbia Solar will sell 100% of the energy generated

could combat high-energy consumption and rising utility

to D.C. United at a fixed price for 25 years. This scenario lets

costs. In keeping with D.C.’s rating as a LEED (Leadership

the club buy renewable energy from New Columbia Solar at a

in Energy and Environmental Design) city, Audi Field’s

lower price than the utility, without requiring any up-front

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SOLAR TECHNOLOGY

25

YEARS

YOUR PARTNER FOR STAGE & STUDIO LIFTING EQUIPMENT

1996

2009

Founding of CHAINMASTER GmbH Worldwide 1. Certified VBG-70 System

1994

2021

XYZ-Control acc. to EN 61508 SIL3

Launch of CHAINMASTER Image film

Premiere of VarioLift Series

New D8Plus Ultra Series

1998

2020 CHAINMASTER GmbH •

•

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SOLAR TECHNOLOGY

capital costs.

SafeDC feature is designed to automatically reduce DC voltage

The new SolarEdge PV system is expected to reduce the

to touch-safe levels during grid failures, providing maximum

stadium’s grid dependency by approximately 30% annually,

protection for the installation crew and maintenance

while helping to save $30,000 per year on utility bills.

personnel.

As the second largest solar installation at a soccer-specific

Discussing the project, Mike Healy, CEO, New Columbia Solar,

Major League Soccer stadium in the US, it will generate

said: “The thrill of the Audi Field experience truly embodies

over 787,000 kW hours of renewable energy on-site per

the spirit and values of Washingtonians, so we couldn’t be

year, and nearly 20 million kW hours over its expected 25

prouder of upholding those same values in powering the

years of operation. It will also reduce CO2 emissions by

stadium with clean, solar energy for the next 25-plus years.

556 metric tons annually – the same amount of electricity

“In partnership with Audi Field, we decisively turned

required to power 95 homes for a year – creating a healthier

to SolarEdge technology for developing one of the most

environment for stadium visitors and locals. By being

innovative solar systems ever seen, paving the way for

environmentally responsible, D.C. United hopes to have

every rooftop across our city, and every stadium across our

a positive social impact and influence its fans across the

country.”

country to choose more sustainable behaviours.

“When we opened Audi Field in 2018, we made a commitment

With the task of installing a canopy system at more than

to reduce our environmental impact and mitigate climate

100 ft off the ground, New Columbia Solar swiftly turned to

change. New Columbia Solar’s best-in-class installation

SolarEdge solutions for its engineering and design flexibility.

using SolarEdge products strengthens our position as

The capacity for longer strings and strings of different

one of the most environmentally-friendly entertainment

lengths allowed engineers to optimise roof space, reduce

destinations in Washington, D.C. We are excited to get

cables and combiner boxes and achieve lower balance of

smarter about our energy and lead the way for other soccer

system (BoS) costs.

clubs around the globe,” concluded Zachary Abaie, Head of

With MPPT technology embedded in module-level power

Communications, D.C. United.

optimisers, SolarEdge can eliminate mismatch losses by up

Sporting events and organisations around the world,

to 3% in year one – a benefit unattainable with traditional

including the IOC and FIFA, recognise the importance of

string inverters. Power optimisers also allow maximum

sustainability to their fans and partners.

energy generation from every individual module on the same

With this SolarEdge install and its other green initiatives,

string – even when located on different roof facets.

Audi Field is leading the way towards an environmentally-

MPPT technology also facilitates remote monitoring and

friendly future, and its efforts can be a model to other

problem-solving, making it easy to pinpoint any under-

sports venues and stadiums across the world hoping to

performing modules and reduce onsite maintenance visits

lessen their environmental impact. By installing solar, a

and costs.

popular and influential stadium like Audi Field has not only

SolarEdge solutions inspire customer confidence with long-

set an example to its teams and fans on how reliable and

term, industry-leading warranties and by exceeding NEC 2017

inexpensive clean energy can be, but is also shining a light on

safety code and grid requirements. The system’s built-in

the complex and critical issue of climate change.

BRAND: SolarEdge Technologies | INSTALLER: New Columbia Solar | WEBSITES: www.solaredge.com, www.inewcolumbiasolar.com 054

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Host Venue: Liverpool FC’s Anfield Stadium

I N T E R N AT I O N A L

Europe’s Leading Premium Seat & Hospitality Conference & Exhibition September 6 - 7, 2021 Anfield Stadium Liverpool, UK

Leading the Premium Seat Industry Since 1990

Everton Football Club’s Goodison Park

An innovative hybrid event, offering physical & virtual opportunities

Keynote speakers Alan Gilpin, Interim CEO, COO & Managing Director, Rugby World Cup, World Rugby and Nick Sautner, CEO, Eden Park Stadium, plus Rob Hunden, President, Hunden Strategic Partners will be providing an overview of the latest sports venue developments worldwide.

M&S Bank Arena Liverpool

50+ Speakers, 35+ Exhibition Stands, Networking Events and more…

State-of-the-Art Venue Tours: Liverpool FC’s Anfield Stadium, Everton FC’s Goodison Park, and M&S Bank Arena Liverpool Presented by:

I N T E R N AT I O N A L Leading the Premium Seat Industry Since 1990

For more information: alsdinternational.com or katie@alsd.com

CABLING

2021 DIRIYAH E-PRIX Diriyah, Saudi Arabia Images: Formula E

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onnectivity for a massive Dante audio network,

network. Commenting on the choice of opticalCON DUO connectors,

extending over some 15 kilometres of fibre-optic cable,

MediaPro International Chief Operating Officer Shaam Pudaruth

during the 2021 Diriyah E-Prix in Saudi Arabia, relied

said: “Connectivity solutions of the quality and ruggedness of

on the robust, field tested dependability of Neutrik

Neutrik’s opticalCON range are an essential element in providing

opticalCON DUO connectors.

the technological advantages of AoIP fibre optic networking

The site-wide audio, video, lighting and rigging infrastructure

solutions.

supplied and operated by Dubai headquartered, MediaPro, included

In addition to the massive audio network, MediaPro also catered the

their entire Middle East based stock of L-Acoustics systems –

radio microphone requirements with Shure Axient systems, video

comprising K1, K2, Karas, 112P’s, 5XT’s, X8’s, X15, KS28, SB18’s and

screen and signal requirements of the site with 78 CD screens, radio

20 LA RACK II, 13 Yamaha QL and CL consoles, with D2 racks, 15 of

and Clearcom wireless communications, SFX, trussing and rigging

the company’s own network racks – connecting all of the various

and lighting solutions for general grandstand, pedestrian bridges,

audio zones to the network - and a complete redundant Dante

entrance gates, and branding areas around the track.

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MANICA

Lead Design Architect of Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, NV

manicaarchitecture.com

18 EXTRA TIME

IN DETAIL 060 Daplast

VENUE TECH DIRECTORY 062 Latest Tech For Sporting Venues

FULL TIME 064 Quince Imaging | Hybrid Fan Experience

EVENT DIARY 066 Conferences & Exhibitions

EXTRA TIME

Daplast | SITTEM he Daplast design team, under the Insitual seating brand, has developed a new line of seats for toplevel stadiums and sports venues. Thus, Daplast completes its range of stadium seating by offering a complete solution for all areas of the stadium - general stands, preferred areas, and VIP boxes.

Due to its design and comfort, SITTEM tip-up seats line is recommended for high-level sports facilities. With balanced design lines, SITTEM seats guarantee comfort and freedom of movement thanks to their large dimensions that optimise the personal space of each spectator.

SITTEM stadium seat and its accessories are fixed on a rail that allows a very wide range of configurations (depending on the space available in the row). The different seat finishes and its accessories increase the customisation options in the grandstand.

This June, Daplast presents the first versions of the SITTEM line, the BASIC and PREMIUM models.

SITTEM Basic model is recommended for general public grandstand, while the SITTEM Premium model increases its comfort with padding on both the back and the seat, so it is oriented to preferred and VIP areas. Both models can be completed in turn with cup holders and with armrests that are fixed on a rail, allowing multiple combinations.

The brand has already prepared two more versions to complete this line, which it will offer to the market in early autumn. With the SITTEM line, offered under the Insitual product brand, Daplast significantly increases its extensive stadium seats catalogue for sports facilities.

SITTEM seats are a safe bet due to the aesthetics and comfort

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that will be in line with any type of construction design. It is homologated by FIBA, and certified in resistance by the IBV institute, complying with the maximum level of resistance required by the European standard UNE-EN 13200.

Daplast is specialist in the design, manufacture and installation of stadium seats and dismountable metallic bleachers for sports facilities. With sports venues installed since the early 1980s, Daplast has extensive experience to comprehensively manage any sports venue project. The company, located in Córdoba, southern Spain, controls all phases (design, production, engineering, assembly) with its own resources, so it can respond immediately to any need raised by the client. In addition, Daplast can manage the most demanding deadlines in manufacturing or installation.

Daplast has equipped with its stadium seats almost all the stadiums of the first and second Spanish football divisions.

The following stand out as Daplast references: Reale Arena (Anoeta) Stadium, home of the Real Sociedad, in San Sebastián; El Sadar Stadium, home of CA Osasuna, in Pamplona, Benito Villamarín Stadium, home of Real Betis Balompié, and the famous Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, of Real Madrid CF, and Camp Nou Stadium, of FC Barcelona.

Other important references are Parc des Princes Stadium in Paris – with its Avatar seating line - Luxembourg Stadium, Saint Symphorien Stadium, in Metz, in France; Amsterdam Olympic Stadium; Stade Chanzy in Angoulême, France; Stade du 5 Juillet in Argel; MTK Stadium, in Hungary, are only some examples. https://insitual.com/en

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VENUE TECH DIRECTORY A closer look at some of the latest, state-of-the-art technology for sporting venues.

MODULO KINETIC VERSION 4 MODULO PI www.modulo-pi.com • • •

• •

Offers a revamped user interface with new icons, optimised views, toolbars, timelines and more.

Includes the support of Notch Block, 10-bit Apple ProRes, and 10-bit GoPro Cineform.

With support of the WebSocket protocol, it is now possible to create custom web applications, and interact with shows created in Modulo Kinetic from any other computing device.

New features allow to significantly enhance show study and simulation in Modulo Kinetic.

Offers a series of new features and enhancements to address the need for virtual and hybrid events in the context of the Covid-19.

MFA AUDAC www.audac.eu • • • • •

CV368 MARSHALL www.marshall-usa.com/cameras/CV368/ • • • • •

062

New Sony one/1.8-inch 3.2MP sensor with 25% larger pixels.

Flexible, interchangeable CS/C Mount lenses from ultra-wide to telephoto.

Global shutter captures ultra-fast paced action with no motion blur or warping.

HDMI and 3GSDI simultaneous outputs with Genlock Sync (3G) for faster more seamless switching.

Adjust and match cameras from the control room or OB van (colour matrix).

WWW.MONDOSTADIA.COM

Features a line out connection, creating the possibility for scaling the output power to meet both small- and large-scale project requirements.

The most advanced acoustic configurations can be set-up and controlled with ease via the AUDAC WaveDynamics configurator.

Allows for an optional Dante expansion.

Features a balanced mic / line input through a three-pin terminal block.

MFA features a slim and sleek design in a compact table top mountable enclosure.

VENUE TECH DIRECTORY

CS7P ADAMSON www.adamsonsystems.com • •

• • •

Ultra-compact, powered, intelligent point source enclosure.

All CS-Series loudspeakers feature on-board Class-D amplification, DSP, and Milan-ready (AVB) network connectivity, and integration with CS software and rack systems.

Versatile, outsize performance with a minimal footprint.

Voiced to pair seamlessly with the full range of Adamson loudspeakers, including the ultra-compact CS118 subwoofer.

Contains two symmetrically arrayed seven-inch low frequency transducers, and a three-inch high frequency compression driver mounted onto an Adamson waveguide, available as either 70° x 40° (HxV) or 100° x 50° (HxV), rotatable in increments of 90º.

SITTEM DAPLAST www.insitual.com/en/seating/sittem-en/ • •

•

• •

Recommended for high-level sports facilities.

These seats are homologated by FIBA, and certified in resistance by the IBV institute, complying with the maximum level of resistance required by the European standard UNE-EN 13200.

Guarantee comfort and freedom of movement thanks to their large dimensions that optimise the personal space of each spectator.

Image left: SITTEM Basic stadium seats for general public bleachers and VIP areas.

Image right: Premium version of the Sittem stadium seats line.

With padding on the back and seat that increase the comfort of the spectator. Recommended for preference areas and VIP areas in high-level sports facilities.

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QUINCE IMAGING Sporting venues are innovating the hybrid fan experience, integrating virtual fans and in-person spectators as live audiences make a comeback at stadiums and arenas worldwide www.quinceimaging.com

irtual events in 2020 opened the door to a pandora’s box of remote entertainment solutions, driving technical innovation for live events and remote audiences on a global scale.

Seemingly overnight, the traditional landscape of broadcast and OTT media distribution were upended by a new host of post-covid solutions. Swiftly thereafter, fans were equipped with extended viewing options to simulate the in-person experience, including virtual participation, two-way fan/player interaction, and remote, backstage access into some of the most prominent arenas in sports. Consequently, the professional sporting industry was forced to rely upon cloud-based technology, state-ofthe-art hardware, and the live event industry’s most brilliant minds to devise creative solutions for keeping audiences and teams connected throughout the season. In a recent study, Deloitte concluded that improving the broadcast and OTT experience enhances overall fan satisfaction, resulting in increased revenue opportunities. The study positively correlated exemplary broadcast experience with viewership ratings and event ticket sales 60% of the time; likewise, nearly 40% of fans viewed team sponsors more favorably.

Fortunately, resources expended in 2020 to meet the demands of filling empty arenas with cheering fans, will not go to waste. Here are the Top reasons arenas will benefit from 2020 investments in virtual hardware: • Virtual Fans - Fans are now able to experience the convenience of live broadcast viewership with the excitement of being in the venue with in-person fans. Live experience, plus at-home viewing has provided thousands of fans with opportunities to interact in real-time, in real venues, defying geographical boundaries, travel

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expenses, and other logistical limitations.

• Unlimited Venue Capacity - Uncapped audience size translates to global ticket sales, increased sponsorship opportunities, amplified energy and engagement from fans.

• Diverse use of LED Technology - LED screens can be populated in any arrangement to accommodate unlimited guests. Virtual Fan Sections create a hybrid fan solution that allows a global virtual audience to be strategically intertwined with local in-person attendance.

• Premiumisation of Two-Way Experience - Virtual venues provide fans with premium experiences, including pre-game meet and greets, post-event celebrations, press room opportunities, and more.

In addition to increased sports venue opportunities for resident teams and subsidiaries, modern venues are competing for venue rental revenue. Leading Esports Leagues, for example, host broadcast-driven events throughout the year, with high technological expectations and large budgets. Projection mapping and high-resolution LED are now standard requirements for venue rentals at these top-tier events.

Nevertheless, the arena of the future is on its way, and it looks a lot different that the blueprint of 2019. Leading live events experts foresee that venue competition is expected to remain fierce in 2021 and beyond. Insights from 2020 have proven that rapid modernisation is happening yesterday. Just as every individual and major organisation in the world instantly adapted telepresence and web presence to remain viable, venues will require increasing levels of agility to stay ahead of the technological curve.

“Low-resolution scoreboards aren’t cutting it anymore. Arenas and teams need to be thinking about this now. Collectively, we need to remember how quickly the paradigm shifted, as far as technology and investment, over the

past year. Capital investments in arenas take a very long time to implement. Every new arena in recent years has doubled down on-screen arrays - SoFi stadium, United Center, among others were implementing huge upgrades before the pandemic. As an industry, arenas and stadiums need to be thinking about much more than highresolution scoreboards. The future is in real-time effects and augmented reality, with virtual fan environments leading the charge in capital arena enhancements,” said Eric Gazzillo, Director of Innovation, Quince Imaging.

In 2021, Quince Imaging has consulted with dozens of existing clients, arena connections, and new prospects. Overwhelmingly, top project quotes have included the following: • Immersive Visual Experience - Larger LED, with more sophisticated control and drive systems.

• On-Demand Access for Audiences - Tools to bring remote audiences live feeds into arena LED systems.

• Expansive In-Arena Projection Effects - Low maintenance Laser-Powered Projection Systems.

• High-Fidelity Viewing Experience - HDR video production and camera systems.

• Augmented Reality Packages - Directly integrated with scoreboard production systems.

• Outsourcing Production Capacity - Providing remote video production, transmission, and LED control as an on-demand service.

Quince Imaging has built a name in the professional sports industry as an innovator in providing immersive audience experiences to its clients in acclaimed arenas, stadiums, and fields throughout North America, as well as supporting high-resolution technical innovation to its Esports clients worldwide. www.quinceimaging.com

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EVENT DIARY 2021

ISE 2021 23rd - 24th June, London iseurope.org

World Football Summit 22nd - 23rd September, Madrid www.worldfootballsummit.com

InfoComm 2021 23rd - 29th October, Orlando www.infocommshow.org

ALSD 2021 15th - 17th August, Las Vegas www.alsd.com

SPORTEL Monaco 5th - 7th October, Monaco www.sportelmonaco.com

Congreso de Fútbol de las Americas 27th - 28th October, Costa Rica www.congresofutbolamericas.com

ALSD International 6th - 7th September, Liverpool www.alsdinternational.com

NAB Show 10th - 13th October, Las Vegas www.nabshow.com

IBC 2021 3rd - 6th December, Amsterdam show.ibc.org

Redefining the Stadium Experience

SMALL

FORM FACTOR

BIG

IMPACT

MEDIORNET FUSION 3 & 6 • Standalone IP Converter & Multiviewer • Miniature SFP frame for UHD / HD / SD • Installable close to signal sources or destinations • For full IP or IP-SDI hybrid solutions

SDI

IP Gateway App J2K/JXS

MULTIVIEWER 16 x 1

JPEG-2000 / JPEG-XS En- / Decoder Apps

DIGITAL SIGNAGE

16x1 / 9x1 / 4x1 MultiViewer Apps

FUSION 6

CONNECTIVITY HDMI ETHERNET FIBER SDI

FUSION 3

IP VIDEO

SOFTWARE-DEFINED

DISTRIBUTED

SCALABLE

FLEXIBLE

www.riedel.net

/VIDEO