One of New Zealand’s most significant ecclesiastical landmarks, the Timaru Sacred Heart Basilica, has undergone a major audio upgrade, with a new JBL CBT column array sound system installed as part of a wider seismic strengthening and restoration project.
Located two hours south of Christchurch and under the Christchurch Diocese, the Timaru Basilica is a heritage Category 1 building. Designed by renowned architect Francis Petre, the structure stands as a celebrated example of Roman and Byzantine-influenced architecture, with touches of Art Nouveau design, and is considered one of South Canterbury’s most iconic historic sites.
The recent works aimed to ensure the safety and longevity of the landmark, with the sound system upgrade taking place alongside structural improvements to protect against future earthquakes.
Historically, the church’s challenging acoustics made effective sound reinforcement difficult. With its vast interior and highly reflective surfaces, previous solutions struggled to deliver intelligibility and coverage across the nave and transepts.
Local integration specialists Audio Dynamite were engaged to deliver a solution that would meet both acoustic and aesthetic requirements. Working closely with JBL distributor JPRO, the team designed a system built around JBL’s CBT (Constant Beamwidth Technology) column array loudspeakers.
“We needed a system that would deliver clarity and consistency without compromising the architectural beauty of the space,” explains Richard ‘Stix’ Howey, owner and sound engineer at Audio Dynamite Ltd. “Column arrays offered the perfect balance of performance and visual discretion.”
“We needed a system that would deliver clarity and consistency without compromising the architectural beauty of the space.”
The main reinforcement system comprises JBL CBT 1000 full-range column speakers with matching CBT 1000E bass extenders, mounted discreetly beside the Basilica’s front columns. These are supported by JBL CBT 50LA arrays used as fills to ensure seamless coverage across the listening areas while minimising energy directed at reflective surfaces.
Power and signal processing are handled by Crown CDi 41200BL and CDi 4300BL DriveCore installation amplifiers and a BSS BLU-100 networked processor.
A BSS EC-V-WHT wall controller provides local volume control, while wireless speech reinforcement is provided by AKG WMS470 systems.
JPRO provided system design assistance, working with Audio Dynamite to ensure even front-to-back coverage while avoiding excessive spill into non-audience areas—a critical factor in such a reverberant environment.
“Despite the acoustic challenges, the thoughtfully designed system delivered clear and consistent sound all the way to the standing congregation at the back.”
The upgrade was unveiled at a special Mass celebrating the completion of the restoration works, during which both the structural and audio improvements were blessed.
“I would like to thank JPRO for their invaluable assistance in designing and commissioning this system. The first Mass after the install was a full house,” says Howey. “Despite the acoustic challenges, the thoughtfully designed system delivered clear and consistent sound all the way to the standing congregation at the back. The CBTs performed flawlessly.”
The result is a modern, reliable sound reinforcement system that respects the Basilica’s heritage status while dramatically improving the worship experience for clergy and congregation.
