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.”

The JBL Control Contractor Series includes wall mount, ceiling and pendant loudspeakers for all types of venues. This includes theme parks, sporting venues, shopping malls, conference/meeting rooms, lecture halls, retail stores, concourses, transit spaces, fill applications, audio for video and more.

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.

JBL Control Contractor | Request More Information or Product Demo

VIDEO RESOURCES

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

Learn how to upgrade your EON700 PA to the latest firmware

Learn more about your EON700 in this Portable PA Training Series

NORTHRIDGE, Calif. — HARMAN Professional Solutions, the global leader in audio, video, lighting and control, today introduced the JBL PRX900 Series of loudspeakers and subwoofers, which feature advanced acoustics, comprehensive DSP, unrivalled power performance and complete BLE control via the JBL Pro Connect app.

The line, which includes three powered two-way loudspeakers and two powered subwoofers, is built from the ground up to leverage JBL’s most advanced acoustic innovations. All-new proprietary driver systems—powered by ultra-efficient Class D amplifiers—deliver clarity and definition even at maximum volume, with improved dispersion and beam width and smooth low-frequency extension.

Availability

JBL Professional is distributed in NZ by JPRO. PRX900 Series is now available in New Zealand as of January 2023. For complete product details and specifications, please view the the information and links below, or arrange a demo with a JPRO representative.

To experience Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium is to experience a lifetime of musical legacy. It’s the birthplace of bluegrass, the home of country, the embodiment of the history and spirit of Music City.

You can practically feel the ghosts of the titans who have passed through these hallowed halls: Johnny Cash. Patsy Cline. Enrico Caruso. Theodore Roosevelt. Houdini. Elvis. Not to mention thousands of up-and-coming musicians hoping to walk in the footsteps of their heroes and claim their own place in the venue’s storied history.

Today, artists of every genre, from Taylor Swift to the Foo Fighters, are honoured to stand on the Ryman stage. A National Historic Landmark and multiple Pollstar Award winning venue as Theatre of the Year, the facility operates as both a performance venue and a living museum, holding more than 260 shows each year while hosting 1,500 visitors daily for guided tours.

“We look to create the most modern experience that we can while still holding on to the heritage that people expect,” says Sally Williams, senior VP of programming and artist relations at Ryman parent company Opry Entertainment Group. “We have to continue to add new technology. We have to continue to welcome new types of artists. We always try to make sure that what we’re doing right now will resonate in the same way in 100 years.”

The Ryman is revered as much for its acoustics as its heritage. The 2,300-seat auditorium, born as a revival hall in 1892, was designed to project the booming voices of evangelists, with curved, reflective walls and rows of century-old hardwood pews wrapping the low stage. But those same live qualities of the hall present significant challenges for amplified events, from managing stage volume to ensuring that mixes worked out in a reverberant, empty hall at soundcheck translate well to a full house. Compounding matters is a long, low under-balcony area prone to inconsistent coverage.

“Some people throw their hands up after soundcheck and say, ‘I don’t know. It’s going to be terrible,’ and they freak out,” says Grand Ole Opry audio services supervisor Mark Thomas. “They’re sitting at their consoles really carving inputs and changing the EQ. We usually tell them, ‘No, just stick with what you know works. When the room fills up with people, a lot of the energy will be tamed right away.’”

Sound reinforcement at the Ryman has been handled by JBL since 1994, with a system optimized for acoustic country, bluegrass and light theatre; that was replaced by a VerTec system in 2005. As the venue began booking more genres and louder acts, system headroom was pushed to the limit. “We couldn’t keep up with some of the louder stage volumes,” says Thomas. “We realized if we were going to keep trying to do those kinds of shows, it was time to update our system.”

After assessing system needs, the next step was defining priorities on and offstage. Ensuring a familiar artist experience was paramount: “We took it really seriously that we might be messing with that magic,’” says Thomas, who took extensive measurements to model what performers were used to hearing onstage. From the audience perspective, the goal was to provide a consistent experience in every seat, especially in under-balcony sections that suffered from limited sight lines and uneven coverage.

Then the team set about reviewing P.A. specifications from every artist who performed at the Ryman over the past five years. “Everybody has to use our P.A., so we wanted to be in 90 percent of the riders that people are asking for,” Thomas explains. “We chose the top three that people were asking for, and JBL was one of them.”

The Ryman team narrowed the field to three manufacturers, represented by three systems integrators, and invited them, along with 20 local live sound engineers, to participate in a full system shootout. “I always welcome shootouts because I think it’s so telling,” says Dan Heins, vice president of Nashville’s Clair Solutions, which facilitated the demos. “I wish it was done more often. We feel better with completely satisfied customers. You don’t want to buy a sound system of this magnitude and put it in and not be happy with it.”

“We ended up with three mono clusters hanging right off the downstage edge and the sub arrays just below,” Thomas explains. “We all walked the room and listened to all three of them over and over and over. That evening we had a bunch of members from the Opry house band come in. We got to feel it with a real band, a real drum kit and some vocalists.”

The shootout’s timing was serendipitous, as unbeknownst to the Ryman audio staff, integrators or participating engineers, JBL was getting ready to introduce the VTX A12, a compact, lightweight new double-12 loudspeaker aimed at mid- to large-scale touring applications and high-end installs.

“We got a phone call that said, ‘We have something new we want to show you. We couldn’t show you there in front of everybody else. We want to take a couple of you guys out to Northridge and show you the new product,’” says Thomas, who flew to Harman’s Los Angeles-area headquarters with Ryman production manager and audio supervisor Les Banks and Opry front-of-house engineer Kevin McGinty to audition the new JBL technology.

The audio team was won over by the A12’s clarity, cohesiveness and lack of coloration: “With a lot of our acoustic problems here, it’s all about vocal clarity and trying to get speech intelligibility up as high as possible,” says Thomas. “I feel like JBL has found that smoothness in that high midrange. We were also really impressed with the subs.”

In January 2018, teams from Harman, Clair and the Ryman took advantage of a rare break in the venue’s performance schedule to install the new system. “There was a lot of preparation with electricians coming in running conduit,” says Banks. “On that Sunday morning at 8 o’ clock, an army of people from the Clair Brothers install team and electricians came in. We had five days to get it going, and then we had a show; the first show was The Grand Ole Opry.”

The Ryman’s A12 system comprises the main P.A., subwoofers, new under-balcony P.A., front-fills and networked amplification. Stage stacks were replaced with hung arrays to clear sight lines and improve time alignment, while minimizing energy onstage.

“The under-balcony was the biggest challenge,” says Heins. “It’s a cavernous space, and it’s very steep. The geometry is unique, from what I can tell, only to the Ryman. It took several tries at it before we really developed the right solution.”

The new system takes the under-balcony from eight passive speakers with eight zones to eight micro-line arrays utilizing JBL VT4886s with time-aligned VT4883 subwoofers in an alternating left-right-left deployment. These zoned arrays have quadrupled the coverage energy for seamless sound in every seat.

“We greatly improved the under-balcony experience for clarity,” says Banks, who has mixed shows at the Ryman for nearly a quarter-century. “It’s not so much volume; it’s definitely coverage. You want everyone who bought a seat to have the same experience. That was the goal.”

The Ryman’s “new sound” is getting glowing reviews from artists, crews, staff and patrons, says Banks. And, he adds, audience compliments take on a special dimension in a town full of music professionals: “You’ve got producers, managers, agents—all critical listeners. You can’t fool them.”

Video: See how JBL VTX A12 Brings Modern Sound to Historic Ryman

Video: Hear from JBL and FOH Engineers Using VTX at the Ryman

And you don’t get much more outdoorsy than doing a gig an hour north of Newcastle, near the historic town of Stroud, in a valley called Gunns Gully, where around 500 dirt bike enthusiasts have converged to ride the Transmoto Enduro.

The Transmoto Enduros are a calendar of eight- and 12-hour endurance races for amateur riders taking place on dedicated tracks in rural areas all over Australia. Pitched as events where you can ‘Race Your Mates’, competitors descend on the sites on Saturday to pitch their tents and prep before challenging each other on the Sunday. As a gig, it’s big, it’s loud, and comes with all the logistical challenges of being remote at the same time.

“We are no strangers to outdoor events like the Transmoto Enduros,” says Marc McAvoy, Director of Be Productions. “For production on these kinds of events, if a piece of gear can have a battery or run wirelessly, it’s a plus. That’s why we carry 60 different models of battery powered lights!”

With every event on the calendar a sell-out, covering the huge sites with audio for communications, announcements, and the race call is a challenge. “We have the audio coverage in the central operations hub sorted,” elaborates Marc. “That’s all run with cabled passive speakers, and the Enduros tour a small 25kVA generator to power it all. That area includes management, sponsor tents, a stage, and the finish line. The trickier issue we had was to get audio to the camping area 300 metres away, where they’ve decided they don’t want the constant hum of generators.”

As part of their continuing research into a reliable battery powered sound system solution, Be Productions had their attention caught by the JBL EON ONE Compact. It’s a self-powered two-way, kicking out 112dB SPL, with onboard four channel mixer and processing, Bluetooth capability, app control, and an all-important rechargeable and hot swappable battery with up to 12 hours run time. Additionally, the Eon One Compact can be set to automatically lower background music levels during announcements.

“We thought the Enduros would be a great test of the JBL EON ONE Compact as a battery-powered audio solution,” relates Marc. “So, we bought six units and an extra six batteries so we could recharge and hot swap without interruption. We put in an FM transmitter at ops that broadcasts to the whole site, then ran a rechargeable FM radio receiver on three of the EON ONE Compacts at the campsite that charges off the EON’s USB port – a very handy capability, that. We then hardwire signal to the other EON ONE Compact in each pair using the analogue pass through.”

With the EON ONE Compacts rigged on site in weatherproof bags, the Enduro was up and running. “The charge on the battery was very reliable,” observes Marc. “The first day, we were running full whack and didn’t have to swap batteries until that evening. We had a tech looking at the on-board battery indicator every hour, and they were fine. The hot swapping was really the key to success for us, as we could do it quickly and easily without having to de-rig the units. In terms of sound, the speech intelligibility is very good, and they absolutely cut through. For full range programme, the output is very impressive for a battery powered unit. I’m very happy with their coverage, and I’d say the EON ONE Compact is the way forward for us in these applications.”

Weighing in at just 8kg and measuring 291 x 255 x 399 mm, the EON ONE Compact’s portability and flexibility will likely see it end up running in some unusual applications. Literally.

“I’ve just been designing and quoting for a running festival with a requirement for runners to be kitted out with a backpack and a speaker,” chuckles Marc. “The idea is that they look like the other competitors, but they’ll be blasting audio synced via phones, connected to the speakers via Bluetooth, with the JBL EON ONE Compact sitting in the backpack. We’ve pitched that to the event, and we just hope they don’t expect us audio techs to run the half marathon with them!”

First published on the CMI website.

Old St Paul’s is a historic Anglican church on Mulgrave Street, Wellington built between 1865 and 1866. Considered one of New Zealand’s greatest heritage places, it is no longer a parish church but a popular venue for weddings, funerals, concerts and services. The church is an example of Gothic Revival architecture and is now managed by Heritage New Zealand.

The church was closed between May 2019 and July 2020 for seismic strengthening work. Heritage New Zealand wanted to take the opportunity to revisit the in-house AV system while the strengthening work was taking place.

The AV system was old and unreliable and the loudspeakers did not provide the quality the customer required in terms of fidelity and coverage. AV integration company Audio Workshop was commissioned to provide a sound and video solution for the church. The objective was to provide a sound system that provided consistent coverage for background music and speech with high intelligibility. The video system needed to be easy to use and easy for the venue staff to set up.

An additional design challenge was to meet the historical architectural requirements of the space, working alongside the architect and within their vision.  The design needed to consider where the AV equipment could be attached while also factoring in the look of the design in an historical space.  While working on the design considerations, Audio Workshop ensured they were not compromising on functionality and quality while also working within the constraints of an overall architectural design.

Audio Workshop selected a BSS BLU-100 configurable networked signal processor for audio processing and control, using Audio Architect Motion Control on an iPad, fixed at the tech desk area in a Heckler wall plate. The iPad can run on a LAN connection powered via POE which keeps the iPad charged.

JBL CBT50 column speakers and Control 28-1 loudspeakers, custom-painted to blend in with the native timber interior, were selected due to their reliability and performance. The JBL CBT50s were specifically chosen for their appearance, audio properties and design, as at 500mm long and slim, they could be mounted between the timber work and not be noticeable. Due to JBL’s Constant Beamwidth Technology in the column-shaped speaker, the CBT-50s are able to provide high speech intelligibility and consistent coverage in challenging acoustic environments.

Due to its open-architecture platform, the BSS BLU-100 processor not only provided exceptional audio processing but was used to control the Kramer Matrix switcher for video.

The design by Audio Workshop for Old St Paul’s has resulted in a sound system that provides excellent audio coverage throughout the church with loudspeakers providing exceptional quality sound for speech.  The design is discreet, with the loudspeakers placed in such a way that they met the architect’s goal of a non-visible sound system.  The video system provides a reliable, easy to use platform for venue staff that is also physically manageable. The overall system design provides all the functionality required while also working within the limits of the historical building.

The Opportunity

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

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

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

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

The Solution

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

System Features

• AMX SVSI NMX-ENC-N2312
• AMX SVSI NMX-DEC-N2322
• AMX Modero MD-1002
• JBL AC28/26
• JBL ASB6115
• JBL AWC82
• JBL Control 67 P/T
• Crown CDi 4|600
• Crown CDi 2|300

The Impact

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

Performance Software

JBL Performance is now available for iPad OS in the Apple App Store. Along with the macOS and Windows versions, the iPad version brings a fully featured version of the Performance app, for controlling and monitoring SRX900 series products to a highly portable, touch friendly device.

The experience and capabilities are the same across all platforms, including the sharing of files created on different operating systems.

Download JBL Performance today from the Apple App Store.

DIRECT DOWNLOADS:

Tutorial: Get Started with JBL Performance

A complete video training series is available to help get started with JBL Performance. View here:

Performance Manager

Performance Manager version 2.9 adds support for system deployment, control and monitoring of the new VTX A6 line array, B15 and B15G subwoofers. Additionally v2.9 adds a new full-screen mode, improving visibility on devices with smaller screens, improves the repeating array template and enables daylight mode to automatically follow the computer’s theme settings.

View the Performance Manager v2.9 update overview video here:

NEED TO TALK TO A JBL SOLUTIONS EXPERT: Contact your JPRO Representative or click on the Contact button below.

JBL Performance is a full-featured application designed to control, configure and monitor SRX900 Series sound systems in live applications. Building on the success of JBL HiQNet Performance Manager, a workflow-based approach guides the user through the system design, testing, tuning, and monitoring stages. An intuitive drag-and-drop interface quickly creates system groups that leverage powerful on-device signal processing, including Gain, Delay, EQ, and Array Calibration filters providing an efficient tuning and optimization process. Real-time device testing and monitoring of the system bring confidence that everything is performing as expected. JBL’s HControl protocol eliminates the confusing chore of managing IP addresses at the venue and operating seamlessly over off-the-shelf networking hardware while being fully compatible with Wi-Fi.

Performance is part of a complete software ecosystem. It integrates with other JBL software, including JBL Line Array Calculator III acoustic prediction software and the JBL Array Link mobile app.

NORTHRIDGE, Calif.— HARMAN Professional Solutions, the global leader in audio, video, lighting and control technologies, today introduced the newest members of JBL’s flagship VTX line array series, the VTX A6 subcompact dual 6.5-inch passive line array element and the B15 compact, arrayable 15-inch subwoofer.

The A6 and B15 bring JBL’s top acoustic technologies to compact form factors for small- to medium-size touring and fixed installations, providing versatile solutions for production companies, touring acts, rental houses, theaters, houses of worship and anyone who requires superior sonic performance in space-critical applications.

“When you choose the JBL VTX A Series, you’re building a complete ecosystem, with common acoustic profiles and rigging systems, consistent voicing and standardised system design and operational tools,” says George Georgallis, Director, Product Management–Performance Audio at HARMAN Professional Solutions. “And, by accessing VTX technologies in a new ultra-compact package, you’re able to maximise your system investment and deliver VTX quality and performance in any scale application.”

Streamline system operation and share information with teams in real time using JBL’s suite of software tools, including the LAC-3 design application, the Array Link deployment tool and the Performance Manager configuration and control application. Simple, intuitive user interfaces let users design systems in minutes and manage functions from anywhere.

JBL VTX A Series products are constructed from premium materials that withstand the harsh conditions of touring and outdoor installations. Enclosures are built from exterior-grade birch plywood with black Duraflex finish and feature powder-coated, hex-perforated stainless steel grilles with acoustically transparent cloth backing. Units are IP55 rated and metal parts are made from high-grade steel with anti-corrosion coating.

With the addition of the A6 and the B15, the JBL VTX Series offers a complete ecosystem for delivering unrivaled sound reinforcement at any scale, in any venue, anywhere in the world.

JBL Professional is distributed and supported in New Zealand through JPRO. For further information on JBL VTX A-Series or any JBL Professional products or audio system designs for your NZ venue, please contact JPRO.

Product Links

For complete product details and specifications, please use the links below:

The Opportunity

Renowned streetwear retailer Culture Kings recently opened their first New Zealand store in Auckland. Located in Sylvia Park, Culture Kings is setting a new benchmark for retail spaces worldwide by providing an incredible user-experience.

Music, sport and fashion are the fundamentals to its success, creating an electrifying atmosphere along with sought-after exclusive streetwear providing a premium retail experience.

Because music plays such an important role, the quality of sound and volume form an integral part of the Culture Kings international brand. The client’s brief was to have high-quality sound throughout the store and a dedicated PA System in the live performance area for DJ, MC and brand activations.

The Solution

AV integration company Avid Automation provide high fidelity customised technology solutions and were called upon to provide a high-impact, exceptional audio experience for the store.

As the store was in a mall with adjacent tenancies – one of which is a movie cinema – it was imperative that the sound design not only provide exceptional sound coverage, but effective volume control, adhering to the sound limits set by the mall.

Acoustic consultants Marshall Day were engaged by the client to ensure that all walls were acoustically treated and floating walls placed in front of structural walls to prevent audio leakage.

Avid Automation worked in conjunction with JBL Professional distributor JPRO to design an audio model within Ease to calculate speaker performance, speaker location and mounting angles – the objective to focus the audio within the retail space. All speaker locations were coordinated with the acoustic consultants.

It was decided that all wall-mounted speakers would be mounted to a ‘floating bracing’ (bracing which is not secured to the studs or joists), while Avid Automation fabricated a custom suspension system for the live performance area.

JBL Control28-1 loudspeakers, known for their consistent wide coverage and rich sonic character, were selected for the main retail area. The versatile mounting options ensured that the sound was projected in the areas they were needed, assisting with the volume requirement of the venue.

JBL SRX 812P active loudspeakers powered by Crown Drivecore Amplifiers and a full suite of user controllable DSP were deployed in the performance area, while powerful JBL SRX818SP active single 18” subwoofers provide additional bass reinforcement for DJ and guest artist appearances.

The heart or ‘ears’ of the volume management was a SoundEar 3-300 noise monitor combined with a BSS BLU-806 processor, programmed to monitor and control the overall sound level produced in the store.

System Features

• BSS BLU-806 Dante Audio Processor with open architecture which is fully configurable through Audio Architect with a full range of processing and logic objects and a “drag and drop” method of configuration provided a powerful volume control system in conjunction with the SoundEar.
• SoundEar3-300 monitors the overall SPL in the store and in conjunction with the BLU-806 manages the sound system volume reduction.
• BSS EC-8BV 8-Button controller with volume control allowed precise control of various zones and source selection.
• Atterotech Dante enabled Bluetooth wallplates and interface provided seamless device connectivity for visiting DJ’s.
• 2x JBL SRX 812P active loudspeakers and 2x SRX818SP active single 18” subwoofers provided powerful sound reinforcement for the performance area.
• 12x JBL Control28-1 loudspeakers powered by a Crown Drivecore CDI2600BL installation amplifier ensured consistent audio coverage in the retail area.

The Impact

“We are very happy to have been involved with this project in what essentially was a very basic sound system configuration, thanks to JBL’s purpose-built speakers that just work as they are intended,” says Darian Sundar of Avid Automation. “The real success and smarts of this project is based around how SoundEar and the BLU-806 are integrated to perform volume reduction. The BSS open architecture platform makes virtually anything possible. The system has performed flawlessly – which is what we have come to expect from JBL, BSS and Crown.”

“Launching Culture Kings in New Zealand is a really exciting step for us so we can deliver the iconic in-store atmosphere that we’re known for to our NZ customers,” says Simon Beard, CEO of Culture Kings. “Our Sylvia Park location gives New Zealanders an immersive experience unlike anything in the market.”

Tech Talk

“SoundEar is a SPL Monitoring device that gives the client a visual indication of the current SPL,” says Darian Sundar. “With the ability to set custom limits and thresholds in the SoundEar, the volume limits imposed by the mall were loaded into the device with a threshold a few dB under the limit, so that the client would see a visual warning prior to reaching the system limit.”

An automated volume reduction was still needed and as a result, SoundEar and BSS were integrated together and programmed so that if the volume went above the set volume limit, the BSS BLU would reduce the volume and continue to do so until the incoming level was decreased by the user.

This achieved a satisfactory result better than using limiters and compression. Signal integrity was maintained so that the audio experience within the store remained clean and undistorted.

Setting up a PA system can be a hassle. You have to find the right cables, set up speakers and make sure everything is working before you get going.

Sound familiar?  Enter JBL Professional’s new family of All-In-One portable PA systems – EON ONE Compact, EON ONE MK2 and PRX ONE. The days of schlepping huge, heavy sound systems to event spaces are over. All the tech and best sound are at your finger tips. And the best part? Get going in under 5 minutes!

It can be tricky to figure out which JBL All-In-One system best meets your needs, so lets take a look at the key differences between each JBL model and which one you should consider for your next upgrade.

Here is a guide to JBL’s All-In-One Portable PA family:

EON ONE Compact, as the name suggests, is the smallest speaker of the bunch – but do not let that fool you, it is still packed-full of tech, has an extremely intelligently designed form-factor, and has enough power to easily broadcast your voice or music to a good-sized crowd.

Featuring a single 8” driver for low-frequencies, 1” tweeter for high-frequencies, and enough power to emit 112dB max output level, the Compact packs a punch that belies its 8kg weight.

EON ONE MK2 is the newest portable battery powered column array, featuring the best of the previous EON ONE models, added with the latest in digital mixing, improved portability, longer battery power and audio processing technology to create the most flexible, portable and powerful option in the EON ONE range to date.

Connectivity

Combining a 5-channel digital mixer with 3 Mic/Line inputs (2 with optional 48v phantom power), Bluetooth 5.0 streaming, audio passthrough to link additional speakers and USB charging connectivity alongside JBL’s proven column PA technology. EON ONE MK2 gives you more digital mixing capabilities with a full colour LCD screen for easy navigation.

At the top the JBL All-In-One Portable range is the JBL PRX One All-In-One Powered Column PA System. PRX One gives you the power to amplify your voice, instruments, or music without sacrificing portability – with this system, you no longer need to compromise between sound quality and size when it comes to performing live or travelling on the road.

Weighing in at just 25.7kg, the PRX One uses a whole host of awesome components to get the best performance possible – it’s built to last too, with rugged enclosures and an attractive yet discreet form factor while looking professional and expensive, which is perfect for corporate use.

WHICH JBL PA IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

If you’re in the market for a new portable PA, each of the JBL All-In-One systems will give you access to premium JBL sound and build quality alongside exceptional built-in digital signal processing and mixing capabilities. Some will prefer the enhanced features on certain models, while others will thrive with a stripped-back set-up that allows for a more basic plug-in-and-play approach. Which one best suits your application?

If your portable audio requirement needs to move from indoor to outdoor, room to hall, quad to field or pool to local pub, you will need a battery powered speaker that is ultra-portable and able to expel sound to a small to mid-sized audience. The EON ONE Compact is your best choice! It’s small enough to carry, yet powerful enough to make your voice or instrument heard. Being able to be powered all day using a built-in battery is a huge advantage when getting power is an issue. A solid speaker for gym class, corporate presentation, school sports day, musician, busker or celebrant – EON ONE COMPACT is the perfect fit!

If you need enough inputs for just a few microphones/instruments and need to cover a larger audience either indoors or out, with the convenience of battery power, then you may want to consider the EON ONE MK2. It has more I/O than the EON ONE Compact and more mixing power from the JBL Pro Connect App. With its line array tech, your audience can span wider and longer distances whilst still being heard. Even with more sound power and column speakers, they still pack down neatly into a single box to carry in one hand.

If you’re a small band, venue, or even rental or corporate company looking for something ultra-versatile and with enough power for medium to large audience sizes then the PRX ONE is your best choice as it features more output power, more DSP, and more connectivity than any other speaker in the All-In-One range – and it’s all remote controllable using the same cross-platform JBL Pro Connect App that controls both EON ONE MK2 and PRX ONE models.

Still not sure? Get in touch by hitting the Contact Us button below!

Get started quickly and maximise JBLs Portable PA Speakers for your use with this useful playlist: JBL Pro Portable PA Training Series

SPECIFICATIONS:

The Swansea Arena is the latest of Ambassador Theatre Group’s (ATG) 58 operator run venues. It has been equipped with a versatile JBL VTX A8 line array system, installed by Glantre Engineering following a competitive tender issued by main contractors, Buckingham Group Contracting Ltd. Consultant on the project was Neill Woodger Acoustics and Theatre Design. Glantre’s contract as system integrator was a turnkey, covering rigging, drapes, full AV (including IPTV) and lighting, as well as the audio component—not only in the main event rooms but also the meeting rooms.

However, the recommendation for JBL’s compact line array had come from ATG’s Head of Technical Operations, Stuart Graham, who had been involved in the project from the outset four years ago. “We were able to have some influence on the design and I was able to shape the technical requirement.”

He noted the transition to JBL after another premium system had originally been specified.  “What had been proposed was a ‘safe’, medium sized system typically found in a theatre.

“But I wanted to challenge it [with this installation], I just didn’t want to keep going down the same route. This was our first UK arena and I thought we should reach and test new products. “There was a more ample budget available for the system’s design and implementation, and we wanted to focus on the scalability of the system and that it would work within every conceivable application. With that in mind, we opted for something tailored very much towards versatility and broader functionality.”

At the same time Stuart Graham was mindful that the venue had been designed not only as a multipurpose space, but with a modular auditorium, that would host a wide range of events—from theatre productions, comedy, conferences and exhibitions—some of them simultaneously. He envisaged it more than a place for different production companies to plug into, and worked closely alongside Neill Woodger to fulfil this.

It had been Woodger who had first directed Graham to Eastbourne’s Congress Theatre in order to demo the VTX A8, a venue where he and fellow consultant Sam Wise had overseen the successful JBL sound system installation in 2019.  He had wanted to hear the system not only with Swansea in mind but also other venues requiring a comprehensive system.

Stuart Graham’s verdict on first hearing the system was unequivocal. “I absolutely loved the sound of the A8 and B18 sub, and was blown away by the quality of the box. They had much more grunt and as for the usability of the system … it was easy to put up and take down.”

Graham subsequently heard the system again on the touring version of Carole King’s Beautiful, before auditioning it thoroughly at the HQ of British and Ireland distributors, Sound Technology Ltd., in Hertfordshire. But he said it was hearing the system again on Beautiful—the Carole King Musical “that signed, sealed and delivered the deal.”

Neill Woodger was happy to sign-off on the JBL solution given the technical proposals supplied and his previous experience with JBL at Congress Theatre.

In total 38 JBL VTX A8 have been rigged in their own flying frames at the Arena.

The set-up needed to be flexible as, thanks to a partition wall which closes the balcony, multiple events can be hosted simultaneously; for example, a banquet for 750 on the auditorium floor can be complemented by a seminar ongoing within the Circle, with no risk of interference or distraction. It was vital therefore that the sound system needed to be quicky reconfigurable and effective across the board.

The standard ‘full arena’ set-up is therefore two hangs each comprising 12 x A8 and 6 x B18 subs in cardioid configuration forming a conventional pros arch system. An additional 6 x B18 subs are available for ground-stacking as required. Two delay hangs each comprise of 5 x VTX A8 and 1 x VTX B18, plus four further VTX A8 as front fills, and a VTX M20 stage monitor package.

Powering the system are 15 Crown 4x3500HD amplifiers, while routing and processing is via BSS Soundweb BLU-806 and BLU-100.

The room can then be configured into conference mode, when the front rake goes in and the box angles change and reduce to eight a side; extra enclosures are then added to the delay arrays which are lowered and angled up slightly when the acoustic partition drops to divide the hall.

Matt Watt, Head of Sound Technology’s Application Team worked with ATG and Glantre on the design proposal and acoustic modelling.

“We modelled several alternative solutions before settling on the flexible A8 design.” commented Matt. “We were limited by the curtain as to where the speakers could be positioned, and the system still needed to work as delay for front of house and as the independent conference system. A8’s ease of rigging makes the reconfiguration of these areas possible as it’s so quick and easy!”

Glantre set up and optimised the entire system using JBL LAC (Line Array Calculator) and Performance Manager software, with BSS and amp config, working closely with Matt and Danny at Sound Technology’s Applications team, who were responsible for final commissioning. Glantre’s project manager and senior engineer, Tim Davies, explained, “There are a number of operating modes, both standing and seating and set up various presets as a base, with three or four different configurations.

“Essentially it’s a converged network and runs on the IT hardware, apart from the lighting.”

In addition, Glantre dipped further into the Harman portfolio, specifying AMX video switchers to manage conference events and video distribution for 4K capability projection, as well as touch screen control in other areas, including the VIP lounge.

Keith Powles Technical and Building Manager of Swansea Arena, also added favourable comment. “Now that the arena is fully operational, I have had many different opportunities to use the system in various setups and configurations within the space

“The first thing that was apparent when using the system was just how flexible and intuitive it was for the user to set up, in a broad range of different scenarios—everything from conference, comedy all the way to large scale music events.

“Sonically the system has completely blown me away. The overall quality is outstanding and a particularly surprising element for me was just how well this system performs with spoken word style performances. The clarity and precision of vocals through the system is by far one of the best I have ever used. The system alongside the venue itself seems to be a perfect combination.“

In conclusion, Stuart Graham has no doubts about the wisdom of his preference for the JBL rig, particularly noting the speed of speaker reconfiguration during fast moving event changeovers. “JBL has a rich history and I know this was the right time and place for us to make a shift over to the brand. Longer term, once the reputation of the system comes more into play, we want to be able to offer the system competitively to certain size productions who don’t need all the investment of bringing equipment in.”

NAMM (Booth 16009) – ANAHEIM — JBL Professional have announced an expansion of the award-winning Control Contractor Series of installed audio solutions, unveiling eight new loudspeakers and subwoofers that bring class-leading performance and reliability to a range of commercial sound installations.

The new products include high performance pendant loudspeakers, wall-mounted speakers and landscape speakers and subwoofers. These new solutions provide a wider range of versatility allowing installers to design sound systems to meet any architectural requirement.

All products feature premium multi-tap transformers for use in distributed systems, and are switchable for direct operation. These sleek, elegant speakers— several of which, are winners of the prestigious RedDot international design award for industrial design excellence—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.”

Please contact a JPRO representative for more information regarding the new Control Contractor range.

Since its Oct. 2021 opening, Seattle’s 17,000-seat Climate Pledge Arena has set its sights on becoming the most progressive, responsible, and sustainable arena in the world, with a net-zero carbon status, no single-use plastic, water conservation, and zero waste as some of its initial ambitions.

Originally opened in 1962 as part of the Seattle World’s Fair, the arena, first known as the Seattle Center Coliseum, was renovated in 1995 as KeyArena and then completely rebuilt in 2020-2021 with a reported $1.15 billion in private investment.

As Idibri senior consultant David Battershell notes, the latest upgrade wasn’t just a simple renovation. The original arena’s roof, for starters, “is a historic landmark and couldn’t be torn down, so it had to be lifted off for work to begin. The rest of the building was then completely dismantled, the floor was lowered 20 feet, and the new arena was built up to where the original roof would eventually be replaced.”

Along with naming rights, where it opted for “Climate Pledge” to raise awareness of the venue’s unique sustainability initiatives rather than simply tout its own company brand, Amazon is featuring its contactless Amazon One and Just Walk Out payment systems to eliminate checkout and payment delays at stores and food concessions within the arena.

While architects Populous and general contractor Mortenson met client Oak View Group’s need to preserve the iconic roofline, new upgrades changed the undercarriage, adding dozens of vertical lapendary baffles.

A perforated metal panel on both sides of the upper deck lets fans maximize the noise in the bowl, providing home venue advantage for basketball or hockey games. Adjustable acoustic features include retractable 40-foot acoustic curtains, which help open up the bowl and make it louder during games while muting the echo during concerts.

The main arena sound system is based around JBL Professional VTX A series (VTX A12 and VTX A8 line arrays, with VTX S28 subs) all powered by Crown amplifiers. JBL Control Series and AE Series speakers are used throughout the public areas and are powered by a variety of Powersoft amplifiers.

Idibri’s Battershell credited Powersoft’s Mezzo, in particular, for use in the arena’s suites, behind the televisions. “We used them to provide an audio input for local TV audio, amplification for local speakers and IP audio connection to the bowl audio feeds,” he notes. “Powersoft heard our design requirements and delivered exactly what we needed.”

Dave Curry, vice-president of technology for Climate Pledge Arena, also credited the audio setup in the suites. “The feedback from guests has been very positive.”

• Capacity: 17,200 (Concerts), 18,100 (Basketball)

System Features

• JBL VTX-A12
• JBL VTX-A8
• Crown amplifiers
• JBL Control Series
• JBL AE Series

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.