HARMAN Professional Solutions, the global leader in audio, video, control and lighting systems announced two new loudspeaker additions to its JBL Professional PRX900 Series powered portable PA family. This expands the lineup to include seven models – five powered loudspeakers and two powered subwoofers to support even more needs and applications.

The new JBL PRX925 and PRX935 loudspeakers are perfectly aligned to existing PRX900 models by integrating advanced acoustics, comprehensive DSP, unrivalled power performance and durability and complete BLE control via the JBL Pro Connect app.

“We’re thrilled to offer these new PRX models to our customers,” said Brandon Knudsen, Senior Product Manager, Portable PA Loudspeakers. “Since launching the family, we have continually looked for opportunities to make the system more versatile to support even more applications and requirements. These new speakers are perfect for a wide range of new and expanded use cases and we can’t wait to start seeing them at work, supporting our users.”

For complete product details and specifications, please visit:

• PRX925 Two-Way Dual 15-Inch PA Loudspeaker
• PRX935 Three-Way Single 15-Inch PA Loudspeaker
• PRX900 Powered Portable PA Series

SITE REFERENCES | BROCHURE | REQUEST INFO/DEMO | VIDEO RESOURCES

Intellivox References New Zealand

Here is a reference list of some of the venues in New Zealand where JBL Intellivox beam shaping loudspeakers are used to enhance the audio experience for the listener. (updated January 2025)

INTERACTIVE AV SHOWROOM  |  HOME THEATRE SHOWROOM | DEMO FORM

Visit the interactive JPRO Showroom to experience cutting-edge audio, video and control solutions from JBL Professional, BSS Audio, AMX and more. We also feature the only JBL Synthesis-certified luxury custom cinema demo room in New Zealand, where you’ll experience sound so rich and immersive it feels as though the film is unfolding around you!

The JPRO Experience Centre is available by appointment only. Contact us or book your experience today!

Book Your Personalised Demo Today! | Get in touch with the JPRO team →

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.”

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.

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.

Established in 1959, Onehunga High School has long been a cornerstone of its community. Nestled in Onehunga overlooking the picturesque Manukau Harbour in Auckland, the school’s deep roots are reflected in its strong sense of tradition and continuity, with many second and third-generation students passing through its halls. A legacy highlighting Onehunga High School’s commitment to providing lifelong learning opportunities for the local community.

Recognising the need to modernise its facilities to better equip students for the future, the school recently completed a major redevelopment, introducing several advanced facilities. Two new teaching blocks were built – one with a dual-basketball-court gymnasium, exercise room, locker rooms and teaching spaces, and the other dedicated to science and technology.

The school develops culture, character and interpersonal skills through encouragement, commitment, discipline and personal responsibility. This is done by actively engaging students in a diverse range of activities, including sports and performing arts. It was decided that the new gymnasium would be used as a multipurpose venue to cater for its various events and a key requirement to achieve its objectives would be a flexible, high-quality audio system that ensures clear, powerful sound and excellent coverage throughout the space.

The Solution

Trusted technology partner Connect NZ was called upon to design and install a high-definition LED wall and a high-performance audio system capable of meeting the multipurpose audio requirements for the school.

With the range of activities including sports, cultural events, music and performing arts, system designers selected JBL Professional CBT 1000 high-powered line array column loudspeakers with CBT 1000E low frequency extensions for the gymnasium.

JBL CBT 1000 is a high performance adjustable coverage line array column that is engineered to distribute more sound to the far area of a room allowing for optimal sound distribution and delivering consistent powerful audio throughout the space, ensuring even coverage from front to back.

With limited room for traditional subwoofers, system designers specified JBL CBT 1000E low-frequency extensions for their extended bass response down to 38Hz, providing enhanced sound control and increased output levels that allow the school to achieve a full, dynamic audio experience without compromising on space or performance.

The loudspeakers are powered by a Crown DriveCore CDi21200 amplifier. Designed to make installations easier, Crown CDi DriveCore amplifiers are equipped with speaker presets to fully maximise the capabilities of the CBT 1000 speakers. CDi amplifiers streamline ongoing maintenance and control with robust network management, advanced digital signal processing and a user-friendly front-panel interface with colour display. Energy efficiency is a cornerstone of the CDi range, thanks to GreenEdge Technology, which incorporates power-saving features and an auto-standby mode to reduce environmental impact and operational costs.

Because the multipurpose gymnasium would also be used for school assemblies and live music performances, reliable AKG wireless microphones were chosen along with an external RF Venue DFIN ‘diversity fin’ antenna for reliable RF reception throughout the space. The Diversity Series of antennas eliminate dropouts compared to traditional whip or paddle antennas by combining two antenna paddles into one (with two RF inputs), simplifying RF setup and reducing coax cable clutter.

System Features

• CBT-1000 High Performance Adjustable Coverage Line Array Column that sends more sound toward the far area of a room to make front-to-back sound levels more consistent.
• CBT-1000E Extension for CBT1000 provides extended bass response and pattern control and increased sound output levels for superior audio performance.
• RF Venue Diversity Fin Distro4 Package includes Diversity Fin Antenna (DFIN) for Wireless Microphones, DISTRO4 Antenna Distribution System and relevant coaxial cables
• AKG C555L wireless condenser headset mic
• AKG DMS800 Dante enabled wireless microphone system
• Bluetooth wallplate with Dante
• Crown CDI21200 best performance-for-value amplifier with pre-loaded JBL speaker tunings to help make installations quicker and easier.

The Impact

“We needed a high-performance audio solution that is reliable and could cover long distances. The JPRO design along with the JBL CBT1000 line array column loudspeakers have enhanced the Onehunga High School gymnasium,” says Rakesh Choudhary, Business Development Manager at Connect NZ.

“What truly stands out is the speaker’s consistent tone quality, whether at soft or loud levels and its ability to deliver clear audio in various performance settings in a large open space. Its IP55 marine-rated capabilities provide added peace of mind against humidity and dust, keeping the system reliable for all occasions. It’s been the perfect solution for the multipurpose requirements of the venue and we’re delighted with the results.”

HARMAN PROFESSIONAL Solutions, the global leader in audio, lighting, video and control systems, announced the launch of its PSB-2 SoundBar in Las Vegas at InfoComm 2024, expanding the PSB soundbar lineup by adding HDMI and Bluetooth digital source inputs. This new addition to the lineup signifies a leap forward in commercial soundbar technology, delivering focussed audio while minimising sound transfer to neighbouring spaces. Designed for a variety of settings including hotel rooms, cruise ship staterooms, meeting spaces, classrooms and more, the PSB-2 SoundBar is set to enhance the audio experience in these environments.

Engineered with a front-facing speaker specifically tuned for human speech, the PSB-2 SoundBar promises significantly enhanced fidelity over built-in television speakers. This enhancement ensures crystal-clear audio even at low volume levels, reducing the need to raise the volume excessively and thereby minimising disturbance to occupants in adjacent rooms. Furthermore, the inclusion of a 2-position volume limiting switch offers additional control over audio levels.

With room-focussed sound, simplified digital connectivity and durable materials and finish, the PSB-2 is an ideal solution that’s perfect for a wide range of professional hospitality, corporate and education applications.

“When we launched the PSB-1, our customers really appreciated having an affordable, professional-grade soundbar that could combine sound transfer minimisation and legendary JBL audio and durability,” said Steve Mathis, Product Manager, Installed Audio at HARMAN Professional Solutions. “We’re excited to launch PSB-2 because it enhances everything great about PSB-1 while providing customers with the flexibility to support the popularity of HDMI and Bluetooth sources in commercial applications to further elevate the user experience.”

JBL PSB-2 Product Highlights:

FOCUSSED, IN-ROOM AUDIO

PSB-2’s front-facing speaker delivers enhanced fidelity over internal TV speakers. It explicitly focuses acoustic energy forward into the room and away from the wall it is installed on to avoid sending unwanted audio into adjacent rooms.

CLARITY AT ANY LEVEL

Enhanced sound quality at low volume levels ensures users are able to hear clearly without needing to increase volume and unnecessarily disturb neighbouring rooms and spaces.

EFFORTLESS BLUETOOTH CONNECTIVITY AND CONTROL

Automatic Bluetooth pairing management allows the PSB-2 to unpair and forget devices after a set time for future pairing availability. It also enables customisation of the Bluetooth beacon ID to match the room it is installed in.

SIMPLIFIED HDMI INPUT & CEC CONTROL OF SOUNDBAR

PSB-2 facilitates configuration for either audio passthrough from the source device to the TV or ARC directly from the TV. It also supports control of TV power, mute, and volume without the need for extra setup.

FLEXIBILITY AND EASE OF USE

PSB-2 supports volume control through CEC from the TV or directly from the Bluetooth device. A single button allows seamless switching between HDMI and Bluetooth. Included mounting hardware simplifies installation on a wall or table.

BUILT FOR DURABILITY

Featuring professional-grade materials and construction, PSB-2’s durable exterior is designed to withstand the rigors of daily commercial use and is also easy to clean.

Additional Details and Specifications:

JBL PSB-2 with digital input support: https://www.jpro.co.nz/products/installed-audio/loudspeakers/jbl-commercial-active-soundbar-whdmi-and-bt/PSB-2/

JBL PSB-1 with analogue input support: https://www.jpro.co.nz/products/installed-audio/loudspeakers/jbl-20-ch-commercial-active-soundbar/PSB-1/

The Opportunity

In 2023, the Springboro branch undertook a major renovation project to overhaul its technological infrastructure. The initiative included the addition of a medium-sized conference room and large meeting room, enhancing the branch’s capacity for collaboration in the community.

The in-house technology team led by Chad Morris opted to install a complete HARMAN Professional AV system, consisting of JBL Professional COL Column and ceiling speakers designed around the AMX Jetpack, which was developed for small-to-medium meeting spaces.

The Solution

The AMX Jetpack provides simple-to-operate room controls, while offering multiple video inputs and enabling voice lift for clear communication with everyone in the space.

The JPK-1300 combines 4K60 4:2:0 HDMI and USB-C video switching and distance transport, room control, wallplate accessibility and audio amplification in a kit that requires zero programming.

It includes a three-input switching wallplate transmitter, a six-button keypad with volume control, and a multi-function receiver with built-in amplifier, USB signal pass-through, RS232 control, Relay, IR, mic/line input, line out, remote mute, audio de-embedding, USB-AUDIO, ARC function and CEC control.

Jetpack supports a wide range of classroom and meeting space applications and can be controlled through panel buttons, RS-232, Telnet, SSH, a Web GUI, and the Jetpack Manager application.

The Impact

“The biggest wow factor with this project was how trouble free it was,” says Morris. “I’ve been an IT professional for 16 years and some projects present obstacles along the way. This one, for the most part was straightforward.

“During the installation, I had to contact the AMX engineer a few times with some basic questions, but they gave me all the information I needed. Overall, it went smoothly for a larger project. I am not an AV expert. I figure if I can do it, pretty much anybody can do it.”

Morris adds: “With Jetpack, you can get a high-end product with cost-effective solutions. Libraries don’t have the budgets big companies do. We need to deliver to the public good, top-of-the-line, cutting-edge technology – but without breaking the bank. Jetpack is the perfect solution for that.”

“The response to the Jetpack has been awesome. What staff and patrons like about it is that you just plug it in and it works. Its simplicity is what makes it great.”

The review offers a thorough examination of the JBL IRX ONE, highlighting its compact design, versatile features and performance across various settings. The reviewer effectively communicates the IRX ONE’s suitability for smaller events, emphasising its portability and simplified functionality compared to higher-end models in JBL’s column PA lineup.

Detailed descriptions of the IRX ONE’s components and features, such as the subwoofer, amplifier, mixer and connectivity options, provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of its capabilities. Additionally, the review offers insights into the user experience, including the ease of setup, Bluetooth pairing process and practical considerations like phantom power operation.

In summary, the Sound on Sound review effectively conveys the IRX ONE’s strengths as a user-friendly, portable sound reinforcement solution suitable for a range of applications, from educational and corporate events to live music performances.

You can read the full review in the Sound on Sound June 2024 publication, or the online version here.

The SRX900 Series was designed for professionals looking for a great sounding, scalable, small- to medium-format sound-reinforcement solution. The series combines best-in-class performance, built-in amplification, user-configurable DSP, a full suite of rigging and transport accessories and a streamlined software experience.

Drawing on flagship JBL technologies, SRX900 transducers deliver class-leading output with extremely low distortion. Sophisticated waveguides provide accurate pattern control, leading to best-in-class coverage. SRX900’s thoughtful cabinet design ensures portability, fast rigging, and durability.

The SRX900 family includes dual 6.5-inch and dual 10-inch powered line array loudspeakers and 15-inch and 18-inch powered, flyable and ground-stacked subwoofers. Whether you’re expanding your inventory or building a new system, the SRX900 Series is built as a modular system to scale to your needs, application, and budget. From DJs and bands to production companies and installations, the SRX900 Series offers the perfect balance of value and performance.

Situated in the heart of Auckland, the historic Anglican church of St Matthew-in-the-City has recently undergone a discreet but powerful sound system upgrade, thanks to the installation of a JBL Intellivox column array system. The heritage-listed building, constructed in 1905, is renowned not only for its stunning Gothic Revival architecture but also as a sought-after venue for weddings and community gatherings.

The need for a new system was driven by the church’s evolving role as both a place of worship and a flexible event space. As such, the brief from both the caretakers and the project architects was clear: deliver outstanding voice reproduction for liturgical use, while ensuring speech clarity and coverage suitable for a broad range of public events – all without compromising the venue’s aesthetic integrity.

Integrator Alpha Sound was awarded the contract, working in close partnership with JBL distributor JPRO and Peter Reed, Senior Consultant at Salmond Reed Architects. Given the acoustic complexity of the space with its ornate architectural features and Category A Heritage Status, the team specified JBL’s Intellivox range for a solution that could deliver intelligibility and seamless coverage.

“The challenge was to ensure high speech intelligibility while respecting the visual heritage of the building,” said a JPRO spokesperson. “We modelled the space in 3D to understand the acoustic characteristics from different column loudspeakers and then determined what the STI values were.”

With the goal of achieving Speech Transmission Index (STI) values above 0.5 – and ideally closer to 0.6 – the design team focused on directing sound only where needed, minimising reflections from hard surfaces and avoiding coverage in non-audience areas. JBL Intellivox’s beam forming capabilities proved key to achieving those objectives.

The sleek Intellivox DSX280 HD powered column array loudspeaker, capable of providing a constant sound pressure level up to 35m, provides consistent full-range audio from the front of the nave to the rear, with minimal intrusion on the church’s heritage interior. Intellivox DSX180 powered column arrays are used as fill systems in the North and South sides. With their slim profiles and custom paint finishes, the Intellivox systems blend discreetly into the surrounding stone columns.

Due to the venue’s multipurpose use, JBL PRX815XLFW 15-inch subwoofers were added to provide additional bass reinforcement for music applications. JBL CBT 50LA column arrays, powered by a Crown CDi4300 amplifier, were deployed to deliver consistent sound coverage from front to back in the mezzanine level.

An AKG CGN gooseneck microphone was selected for the lectern, while AKG C214 large-diaphragm condenser microphones were used to capture the Bell Tower and Cathedral Organ with pristine clarity. These additions have dramatically enhanced the overall worship experience for those attending services at St Matthew-in-the-City.

“The outcome of the loudspeaker upgrade is remarkable,” said Dmitry Rusakov, Events Manager at St Matthew-in-the-City. “They blend seamlessly into our space and the audio quality is quite astounding. It is so clear from the front of the venue to the back, without sounding echoey.”

To mark the completion of the project, staff from JPRO and Alpha Sound were invited to a special dedication ceremony hosted by the church. The event offered clergy, congregation and the wider community a chance to experience the new system firsthand and to acknowledge the technical precision and care invested in the project.

The completed installation at St Matthew-in-the-City demonstrates how the advanced loudspeaker technology in JBL Intellivox can meet the complex demands of heritage spaces. With careful system design and integration, the church has gained a high-quality audio solution that supports its dual role as a place of worship and a community venue—without compromising its architectural character.

JBL Pro Connect App V2

JBL Pro Connect simplifies management of select JBL portable PA speakers and systems, with additional models continually being added. JBL Pro Connect is free for life and the only app needed to ensure that available portable PA models perform at their very best.

Current models are:

EON ONE COMPACT

EON ONE MK2

EON700 Series

PRX ONE

PRX 900 Series

Available for Android and iOS devices, the app opens a world of possibilities for hands-on control over a full suite of mixer, DSP and Bluetooth features. The streamlined interface makes it easy to adjust and manage every feature on multiple speakers from anywhere in the room.

JBL Pro Connect features include setting volume levels, adjusting EQ, activating Lexicon reverb and effects and dbx Digital DriveRack signal processing, customised ducking, saving and recalling presets and much more – all from your fingertips.

The app offers a choice of pre-loaded presets for accessing popular control features like input EQ, dynamics, gates, limiters and chorus delay. A variety of even deeper presets for EQ, gate, compressor, tap, delay, reverb, chorus, output limiter, output EQ and more are also included. Making the app even more powerful, several app-exclusive features and settings are available, including snapshots, multi-speaker grouping, tap tempo and more.

JBL Pro Connect was designed to be an ever-evolving platform. New features and enhancements are continually being added and are accessible by simply updating to the latest firmware. Download the app today and take your stage sound to the next level tonight.

JBL Pro Connect App V2 Release Notes may be viewed here.

JBL Professional portable battery powered audio systems and powered portable loudspeakers are distributed and supported in New Zealand by JPRO and available through participating dealers nationwide.

Learn how to maximise the use of your JBL Professional Loudspeaker with these JBL Pro Connect Tutorials:

In 2023, Ricky Martin, Enrique Iglesias and Pitbull teamed up for the North American Trilogy Tour, with three distinct headline performances each evening. The 2023 leg of the tour kicked off on October 14 in D.C. and included stops in New York, Miami, Houston, Las Vegas and more and wrapped up December 16 in Vancouver.

The 2024 leg kicked off on January 30 in Fresno and included stops in Denver, Austin, Toronto, Nashville, Atlanta and more before wrapping up on March 10 in Tampa.

In order to deliver arena-ready mixes with balanced coverage, detailed clarity and maximum impact, Enrique Iglesias’s FOH mix engineer Brad Divens collaborated with Pitbull’s FOH mix engineer Will Madera and Ricky Martin’s FOH mix engineer Jorge Frontera to specify a complete JBL VTX tour sound reinforcement system.

“I was introduced to VTX on a previous tour with Brad and Enrique Iglesias, and for the last six or seven years VTX has been on our rider,” said Madera. “The first time I listened to it I fell in love with it. It translates my mix very well. I love the low end and the definition of the mids and highs. It has that pop rock sound that I like very much. It was a unanimous decision to go with JBL VTX on this tour, and it was definitely the right choice.”

“The coverage and impact from that system is incredible,” said Divens. “I like the punch, the clarity, I especially like the top end, it’s so smooth and airy and very present. The vocal quality is great coming out of it. Everything seems to sit right where you expect it to be. It’s right in your face but not aggressive. There’s no downside to the VTX system. It goes up quickly, it’s efficient and powerful. The system is at 100% and it can do anything. I’ve mixed on every single possible rig. JBL VTX is the rig I choose. I’d put it up against any other rig.”

Both Madera and Divens praised the quality of work by Bill Chase, the tour’s systems engineer, and expressed that they had total faith in the JBL VTX sound system’s ability to translate their mixes consistently night in night out in different arenas on tour.

“Bill Chase is our system tech, and he’s really good at making it sound the exact same every day in every different room, which is the hardest thing to do,” said Madera. “The JBL system performed consistently on this tour, which makes our jobs easier. It’s been one of my best experiences touring yet, no complaints whatsoever. It’s great to be able to hang out with incredible engineers like Jorgito and Brad. I look up to their mixes, they’re incredible at what they do. It was a great learning experience.”

“This crew we have is exceptional,” said Divens. “That’s really made it painless when it comes to the audio portion. To have consistency night after night from the audio department is the biggest thing I can ask for as a mixer. There’s not one night on this tour when I felt that something wasn’t right – it’s been perfect. Every arena is different, but you put 15,000 screaming fans in there, and it all comes together. The shows have been going great, and that’s partly because of what the PA delivers, and the crew that sets it up.”

System Features

The Trilogy Tour’s JBL VTX sound system features a total of 96 VTX A12 with a main hang of 20 boxes per side and side hangs of 16 boxes per side, and auxiliary hangs of 14 speakers. To deliver a strong and controlled bass presence, the team specified 42 VTX B28 subwoofers, with 24 subs flown with the main array, and 16 subs on the ground in front of the stage. The crew also included 12 VTX A8 speakers stacked on top of the ground subs to deliver front fill coverage.

New at ISE 2024

These new solutions include the BSS Soundweb OMNI Open Architecture DSP (Digital Signal Processing) Platform and AVX Software Suite, JBL Venue Synthesis Acoustic Simulation Software, AMX SVSI N3300 H.26x 4K60 4:4:4 Dante AV-H encoders and decoders for WAN, AMX HydraPort Architectural Connectivity USBC modules and AMX DX-TX-DWP-4K60 DXLink wallplate transmitters.

HARMAN also used the opportunity at ISE to showcase FLUX::’s software for immersive audio production, audio processing plug-in design and audio analysis.

We are excited to see the introduction of these cutting edge innovations from Harman Professional. Product availability to New Zealand will be communicated through our Dealer Channels. If any of these solutions are of interest to you, please contact our team of experts today!

The Opportunity

Auckland International Airport is the largest and busiest airport in New Zealand—and it has become bigger with several expansion projects over the last decade including baggage claim areas, passenger lounge, international terminal departure processing zone and retail hub areas. The massive transformational project has more than doubled the size of the international zone.

Bartons Sound Systems are a preferred contractor for the installation of PA equipment and maintenance of public address systems at the Airport and have utilised JBL Professional Intellivox adjustable self-powered column speakers in many of the expansion projects. Intellivox delivers highly intelligible announcements to large passenger numbers in difficult acoustic spaces.

Bartons originally deployed JBL Intellivox DC280 columns during the first phase of the new baggage claim area upgrades, the DC280 proven to deliver excellent speech intelligibility with constant sound pressure level up to 35 metres. Subsequent newer Intellivox models such as the DSX280HD and DSX180 have been deployed in various phases of the expansion.

“Until the expansion project began, nearly all of the PA loudspeakers used at Auckland International Airport were ceiling speakers or old-style PA horns for exterior areas,” said Rob Waddell of Bartons Sound Systems. “Aside from the fact that we wanted to install something much better, the open-ceiling arrangement of the baggage area precluded the use of ceiling speakers. Further to this, installing a distributed system of conventional, cabinet-type loudspeakers and the cable to wire all of them up would not be cost effective.”

Additionally, before construction even started it was predicted, based on the architectural plans, that the space would be highly reverberant. A further complication: the degree of absorbency (alpha) of the horizontally mounted ceiling baffles that would be installed for reverberation control was unknown.

Waddell realised that a beam shaping loudspeaker would provide the solution and determined the JBL Intellivox was the ideal choice for delivering intelligible sound at the volumes required to handle the ambient noise level of a baggage claim area. The loudspeakers also needed to overcome the high reverberation times created by the space’s open architecture, ceiling beams, walls and uncarpeted floors.

The JBL Intellivox digital beam steering enables its vertical dispersion to be precisely focused and shaped by controlling the relative phase and amplitude of its column of custom-designed drivers and optimising its volume, parametric EQ and delay using proprietary DSP techniques.

Waddell used EASE AURA acoustic modelling software to determine that only two JBL Intellivox DC280 loudspeakers would be needed to provide clear, intelligible coverage of the baggage claim area. The loudspeakers were installed vertically along the wall where the baggage belt is located. “Because it is only 5.3 inches wide, you really have to look hard to realise the speakers are even there,” Waddell noted.

The loudspeakers had to deliver a STIPA (Speech Transmission Index Public Address) of at least 0.5 because the installation serves both as PA and as an EWIS Emergency Warning and Information System. “Management wanted the PA to deliver at least 0.6 minimum STIPA and JBL Intellivox easily achieves this,” Waddell pointed out. “The speaker’s ability to provide highly focused coverage, yet over a large distance, is key in achieving this level of power and intelligibility while overcoming such highly reverberant acoustics.”

Along with superior performance, JBL Intellivox beam shaping speakers have provided significant cost savings because they are self-powered, which eliminated the need for external amplifiers and reduced the amount and expense of cable and labour needed. In addition, the Intellivox built-in Ambient Noise Sensing System further reduced the need for external microphones and cabling that would otherwise be required.

The successful use of the original JBL DC280 has led Waddell to specify installing more JBL Intellivox beam-steerable array loudspeakers including DSX280HD and DSX180 for various stages of the remodelling and extension work. “On paper they’re a clever solution – but when you actually hear the speaker performing so brilliantly in this type of environment you really appreciate just how well-suited they are to this type of application.”

Introducing IRX ONE

Boasting legendary JBL fidelity and performance, IRX ONE utilises concert line array-inspired directivity control, resulting in a custom-tuned, C-shaped array. Featuring six 2” high-frequency drivers, the array delivers rich clarity, a wide sweet spot and seamless front-to-back coverage. The advanced 8” woofer features a bass-reflex design that ensures low-frequency response down to 40 Hz.

Designed to support a range of different users, IRX ONE features a 3-channel mixer that supports the most popular connections, including ¼” and XLR inputs with included 48V phantom power and ¼” balanced mix-out. dbx automatic feedback suppression (AFS), 5 EQ presets, Soundcraft audio ducking, and Bluetooth 5.0 audio streaming ensure a professional experience from start to finish.

IRX ONE was created to be so simple-to-use that anyone from educators and presenters to hospitality or house of worship users can feel comfortable and confident using the system. Musicians, buskers and singer/songwriters also appreciate the plug-and-play design that gets them up and running and sounding great, right away.

“What truly sets IRX ONE apart is its plug and play simplicity,” said Brandon Knudsen, Product Manager for Portable PA Solutions, HARMAN Professional. “We’ve heard from so many education, hospitality and music professionals looking for a pro-grade system that not only sounds great but is really easy for anyone to use. With IRX ONE, this system does just that. Just plug in your mic, instrument or Bluetooth-streamed audio source and let the music or the presentation do the talking right away without a complicated setup getting in your way.”

AVAILABILITY

JBL Professional is distributed in NZ by JPRO. Demo stock is available! Come and experience the IRX ONE at the JPRO Experience Centre. IRX ONE Portable powered column loudspeaker is now available to purchase in New Zealand.

The Opportunity

Founded as an audio visual installation company in 2015 by former touring musician and sound engineer Matt Chapman, the company has since expanded into a full-service equipment supplier for the event industry, contributing to some high-profile events and installation projects throughout New Zealand.

The first real run of the new line array was a solemn occasion, yet the ideal opportunity to utilise all of Audio Workshop’s JBL VTX arsenal, from its VTX F-Series through to the newly acquired VTX A8. Shortly after Matt and the Audio Workshop Team had received their JBL VTX system training by JBL distributor JPRO, the production company was contracted to be the audio visual service provider for the Queen’s Memorial Service held in New Zealand’s capital city.

Audio Workshop was tasked to provide audio visual services in three areas – the Wellington Cathedral of St Paul located opposite Parliament for the State Memorial Service and live screenings in the Parliament Grounds with a main arena and overflow for the public.

The Solution

The State Memorial Service in the Cathedral was attended by dignitaries including Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. Due to the sensitive acoustics of the historic church, Audio Workshop deployed their portable JBL CBT1000 high output line array column as main PA with JBL CBT100 line array columns as fills.

Members of the public were invited to gather in the grounds of Parliament where the new A8 system was put to the test for the first time. 6x JBL VTX A8 line array elements were flown on each side of the large screen with video and audio from the memorial service being broadcast to those in attendance. 4x JBL VTX B18 subwoofers for low frequency extension were included.

“We simply had to include the subs so that we could enjoy the pipe organ that can produce bass frequencies down to 20Hz,” quips Matt Chapman. “The detailed audio reproduction by the VTX A8 and B18 is remarkable!”

The Audio Workshop Team clearly appreciated the accuracy and fidelity of the JBL VTX A8 as well as the simplified patented rigging system which makes system set up and pack down quicker and easier.

The delay stack in the Parliament Gardens consisted of JBL VTX F35 loudspeakers being flown on the truss alongside the screen. The F35’s integrated mounting points allowed the system to be set up at the required angles while its high output three-way enclosure provided pristine audio coverage over the area.

The Impact

“We are very excited to expand our range of JBL VTX speakers to include the A8 line array, B18 subs and M20 monitors. For us it has been a natural progression to expand our inventory with a high-end tour grade line array from JBL Professional. The demand to provide audio for larger events necessitated this,” says Matt Chapman. “We were satisfied with the performance from the F35’s and the level of support by JBL distributors JPRO, and as we already had Crown iTech HD amplifiers and many JBL loudspeakers, it made financial sense to keep it in the family as these systems can work together.”

“The VTX A Series really sounds amazing, providing smooth accurate sound reproduction and versatility. The Queen’s Memorial service was our first time flying our expanded VTX A8 Line Array along with our other systems. The set up of all the gear was simple and fast thanks to the rigging system that works exceptionally well.”

Following the JBL Professional announcement of the award-winning Control Contractor Series product expansion, JPRO is pleased to announce that the new on-wall and in-ground landscape speakers and subwoofers are now available to demo and purchase in New Zealand.

Models included are the JBL GSF3 and GSF6 Garden Ground Stake landscape speakers and the GSB8 and GSB12 Garden In-Ground subwoofers.

The new range of all-weather landscape loudspeakers are winners of the RedDot international design award for industrial design excellence. Available in two natural colours, they blend unobtrusively into the outdoor environment.

Providing class-leading performance and reliability to a range of commercial sound installations, the new range provides a wider range of versatility allowing installers to design sound systems to meet any architectural requirement; aimed in particular at hotels, restaurants or leisure facilities where immersive or powerful outdoor sound is needed.

All products feature premium multi-tap transformers for use in distributed systems and are switchable for direct operation. These robust speakers are made from impact resistant materials complement a broad range of décors and finishes.

“JBL’s new loudspeakers and subwoofers really check all the boxes for integrators,” says Rick Kamlet, Senior Manager, Installed Loudspeakers, HARMAN Professional Solutions. “They provide power and clarity in a range of challenging acoustic environments, and they don’t just sound great, they’re incredibly versatile. With sonic signatures that complement JBL’s existing installation products, they can be mixed and matched to create the perfect solution for any application or budget. And they’re absolutely gorgeous.”

ADDITIONAL DETAILS:

Please contact a JPRO representative for a demo today or to learn more about the new Control Contractor range.

JBL CONTROL CONTRACTOR BROCHURE

Discover the range of installed audio solutions from the resources below and download the brand new JBL Control Contractor Brochure that includes the new expanded range of high performance pendant loudspeakers, wall-mounted slimline speakers and landscape speakers with in-ground subwoofers.

Need audio design assistance or want a demo and learn more about JBL Control Contractor?

Contact a JPRO specialist today!

VIDEO RESOURCES

The Opportunity

Opened in 2021, UBS Arena is a multi-purpose indoor arena located in Long Island, New York. Home to the NHL’s New York Islanders, UBS Arena has a capacity of 19,000 and hosts basketball games, concerts, corporate events and professional wrestling broadcasts in addition to Islanders’ home games. To provide world-class audio experiences for fans and attendees of a wide range of events, the newly constructed facility required a state-of-the-art arena audio solution.

The Solution

Designed by consultant group Wrightson, Johnson, Haddon & Williams, Inc. and installed by integrators Diversified—consists of over 950 JBL loudspeakers, including eight main bowl arrays of JBL VTX A12 speakers and S28 subwoofers, and a variety of PD Series, AWC Series, VRX Series, Series loudspeakers in balcony, concourse, back-of-house and delay positions. The entire system is powered by Crown I-Tech Series and DCi Series amplifiers, with network control and signal processing provided by BSS Soundweb London devices.

System Features

• 96 JBL VTX A12 loudspeakers
• 32 JBL VTX S28 subwoofers
• 8 JBL PD764i loudspeakers
• 270 JBL Control 47C/T loudspeakers
• 138 JBL Control 24CT loudspeakers
• 43 JBL Control 25-1 loudspeakers
• 75 JBL Control 65P/T loudspeakers
• 18 JBL Control 328CT loudspeakers
• 17 JBL Control 16 C/T loudspeakers
• 2 JBL Control 26CT loudspeakers
• 12 JBL Control 47HC loudspeakers
• 9 JBL PD566 loudspeakers
• 24 JBL AWC82 loudspeakers
• 10 JBL CBT1000 loudspeakers
• 24 JBL Control126WT loudspeakers
• 31 JBL PD595 loudspeakers
• 72 JBL Control 226C/T loudspeakers
• 18 JBL AM7212/64 loudspeakers
• 8 JBL VRX932LA-1 loudspeakers
• 9 JBL Control 47LP loudspeakers
• 6 JBL Control 328C loudspeakers
• 2 JBL Control 128WT loudspeakers
• 4 JBL Control SB2210 loudspeakers
• 11 JBL Control 28-1 loudspeakers
• 8 JBL PRX818XLFW subwoofers
• 6 JBL PRX812W loudspeakers
• 2 JBL 306P MKII loudspeakers

• 56 Crown I-Tech 4X3500HD amplifiers
• 12 Crown DCi 8|600N amplifiers
• 41 Crown DCi 4|600N amplifiers
• 10 Crown DCi 4|1250N amplifiers

• 13 BSS BLU-806 signal processors
• 15 BSS BLU-BIB break-in boxes
• 5 BSS BLU-120 I/O expanders
• 33 BSS BLUCARD-IN mic/line cards
• 10 BSS BLUCARD-OUT output cards
• 20 BSS EC-8BV-BLK-US ethernet controllers

The Impact

“We are the multifunction arena here on Long Island, New York—hosting everything from hockey to basketball, large concerts, corporate events, meetings,” said Brian Jones, AV Systems Engineer In Charge, UBS Arena. “We’re trying to provide the top level experience for all those, whether its thousands of fans here for a concert, making a memorable night, or a small group of people having a meeting here in one of our great spaces. In the bowl, we have our line arrays filled out with VTX Series speakers which is filling the arena with amazing sound for sporting events, pumping up the crowd, and delivering crisp and clear PA announcements.”

“One great thing about this system is its all in one family of products,” said Jones. “Everything talks to each other well and integrates well. We have all our JBL speakers powered by Crown amplifiers with signals driven by BSS products. They all work together really well—using the HARMAN Audio Architect system, we’re able to orchestrate all of that.”

“When good sound hits you it’s a physical experience,” said Jones. “The JBL system here can really drive that sound to our fans, and give them that experience. It’s not just loud. Loud can be painful and uncomfortable. This system delivers volume along with clarity. You can still hear it and understand it, and you can still feel it.”

“We specified the A12s for a variety of reasons,” said Scott Bray, Consultant, Wrightson, Johnson, Haddon & Williams, Inc. “It met a size mark, because scoreboards are getting bigger all the time. They’re getting taller and wider. We had a limited amount of space we had to fit into the rigging grid. The versatility of the JBL system met the requirements in terms of budget, SPL, performance and fitting into the grid.”

“The ownership group wanted the sound quality to be as good as Madison Square Garden,” said Bray. “We went above and beyond that. The main array system is in stereo. We have eight clusters so we can do left-right configuration all the around the scoreboard. Delays are individually powered so that concert crews can come in and tie into those delays and have a completely time-aligned system all the way back to their main stage arrays.”

The Opportunity

Aucklanders were among the first to view the vibrant astro-turf colours of the football Unity Pitch at Te Komititanga Square in the Commercial Bay precinct.

The colourful futsal-sized mobile pop-up pitch was commissioned for the Women’s World Cup. Vibrant and unique, it represents a patchwork of the tournament brand colours symbolising unity in diversity and the progressiveness of the game. The Unity Pitch will tour New Zealand and be used in all host cities for various fun activities and events building up to the World Cup shared by New Zealand and Australia.

The Solution

Specialist event agency Spur, who are experts at connecting fans to brands by bringing them closer to the sport, required a robust, dependable portable battery powered sound system that could run for at least 10 hours a day on battery power. After testing numerous systems, JBL EON ONE Compacts were chosen for their reliable battery powered operation and exceptional audio performance.

The Eon One Compact is a self-powered two-way loudspeaker with built-in digital mixer, audio processing, Bluetooth streaming and app control, capable of producing an impressive 112dB SPL. Importantly for the organisers, the EON ONE Compact includes a rechargeable, reliable battery with the ability to provide external power to a diversity wireless microphone system providing up to 12 hours of run time.

Due to the unpredictable nature of the weather in New Zealand, the EON ONE Compacts were set up in weatherproof bags, just in case of the odd downpour.

With a full battery charge lasting throughout the days activities, the speakers were easily taken from their stands without the need of removing countless cables and recharged for the following day.

The Impact

“We reached out to colleagues in the industry who immediately recommended the JBL EON ONE range of battery powered portable PA systems,” says event organiser Kristen Tingley. “After careful consideration, it became clear that JBL and the EON ONE Compact was the sound system of choice in terms of battery reliability, portability and feature set – not to mention that the audio quality was exceptional, easily covering the futsal pitch with clear audio.”

“We were able to link two loudspeakers together for greater audio coverage, with our AKG WMS470 wireless microphone system being powered by the battery on the EON ONE Compact via the USB charge port. The MC’s music and the audio quality helped to create an awesome atmosphere heard by all – we especially appreciated the music ducking feature that automatically lowered the music whenever the MC used the microphone. A very big thank you to the team at JPRO for training and helping to make the FIFA Unity Pitch the success that it was.”

Batteries Included!

Amplify any event with JBL’s newest portable battery powered PAs – from the small-and-mighty, rechargeable EON ONE Compact to the rechargeable column array EON ONE MK2.

JBL’s latest technology carries sound farther and clearer than similar type speakers. With digital mixer, Bluetooth and remote control via app, these ultra-lightweight, one-hand carry portable PA systems provide 6 or 12 hours of play time with easily swappable batteries. They’re perfect for anyone who wants the best sound indoors or outdoors.

School Sports and Teambuilding Days just got more dynamic and engaging. Solo artists, entertainers and ensembles can now focus on their performance. Outdoor fitness sessions, corporate gatherings and activations have become captivating.

JBL Professional’s EON ONE Compact and EON ONE MK2 are now NZ’s must-have All-In-One portable, rechargeable battery powered PA solutions!

Here is our guide to JBL Professional Portable Battery Powered PA Systems:

As the name suggests, EON ONE Compact is the smallest battery powered professional portable speaker of the JBL Pro All-In-One family. Despite its size, it is dynamite in a small package! Crammed full of tech in an intelligently designed form-factor with enough amplifier power to easily transmit voice or music to a good-sized crowd. This is the all-in-one Pro Bluetooth Speaker to take and #PlayAnywhere

EON ONE MK2 is the newest All-In-One Portable Battery Powered column array by JBL Professional. Launched in New Zealand in September 2021, this portable system has become a firm favourite, featuring the best of the previous EON ONE models and adding the latest in digital mixing, improved portability, longer battery power and audio processing technology. This makes EON ONE MK2 the most flexible, powerful and portable option in its class of powered column array to date.

Decisions, Decisions!

Unsure which JBL Professional All-In-One Portable Battery Powered PA system is right for you and where to purchase? Please contact the NZ based JPRO Team for expert advice, tips and recommendations.

JBL EON ONE Compact and MK2 Tech Comparison