The Opportunity

Organised by Pato Entertainment and the sister festival of the One Love Festival, the Good Vibes mUSIC Festival 2020 features an array of local artists, embracing the New Music as international borders were closed and setting the scene for summer reggae vibes. Wanting to elevate the event and treat fans to an unforgettable concert experience, the festival required a state-of-the-art audio system that delivered pristine sound with consistent coverage across the audience.

The Solution

To achieve its audio goals, the fesitval organizers hired New Zealand’s leading event production company, NZ Sound Reinforcement, which designed and installed a world-class HARMAN Professional networked audio solution. The impressive system features an arsenal of JBL Professional VTX A8 dual 8” compact line array loudspeakers, including a ground-stacked system as well as 12-speaker arrays flown on each side of the stage. With 110º dispersion, high-frequency transducers and JBL’s proprietary woofers and waveguide technology, VTX A8 loudspeakers deliver unmatched sound performance with even distribution across the venue.

While the venue offered acoustic challenges, NZ Sound Reinforcement overcame these obstacles with their design and deployment of more JBL VTX speakers. The system includes VTX A12 and VTX A12W dual 12” line array loudspeakers, while sub-arrays consisting of VTX G28 dual 18” and VTX B18 single 18” subwoofers offer authoritative, accurate low-frequency response. Rounding out the sound system, NZ Sound Reinforcement also deployed VTX M22 professional stage monitors, SRX835P loudspeakers and SRX828SP subwoofers. Designed and configured with JBL’s Line Array Calculator 3.5 and Performance Manager 2.7 software, the system is powered by Crown VRack 4×3500HD amplifiers.

The Impact

“We had multiple venues that demanded a specific combination of audio systems, so we used an assortment of JBL VTX loudspeakers. We also had tight SPL restrictions in most venues, whilst keeping the system sounding energetic and full, which we managed to deliver perfectly,” said Juan Soothill of NZ Sound Reinforcement. “We also had very tight load-in times, but with the easy and quick rigging of JBL’s VTX A-Series, we managed to get each system up and running extremely fast.”

“We required a high-fidelity audio solution for the festival, as we were looking to enhance the festival’s sound and provide an immersive atmosphere,” said one of the event’s organisers. “We needed a partner to set up a unique networked audio system with exceptional sound to support some of the world’s biggest artists performing at the festival, and NZ Sound Reinforcement delivered exceptional service.”

Regarded as one of the most iconic albums in New Zealand history, Drive was released in August 1997. It achieved platinum status seven times and won the New Zealand Music Award for Album of the Year in 1998.

Audiences were treated to a special full band performance of the entire album along with carefully chosen hits and select gems from her numerous multi-platinum releases, with accompaniment by special guests.

The Auckland leg of the anniversary tour was held at The Civic Performance Art Theatre to a sold-out audience. Guests were in for an unforgettable experience from talented artists and state-of-the-art production equipment.

The main sound system supplied especially for the event was JBL Professional’s newest line array series – the VTX A12. Designed from the ground up, JBL VTX A12 is a dual 12″ three-way line array element that has been purpose built for mid-to-large size touring applications and high-end fixed installations – which was perfectly suited for The Civic.

“When we were given the opportunity to mix with the VTX A12, it was a no-brainer really,” says leading sound engineer Kevin Bennett, who mixed FOH for the show. “I have never received as many compliments from an audience as I did after this performance. Sonically the A12 is exceptionally smooth – on and off axis. Very little tweaking was necessary to get the system to work at its optimum in the venue.”

It is seldom that an artist comments on the sound quality of a show, yet Bic was gracious enough to offer a spontaneous remark.

“The audience response to this show was not something I was expecting,” comments Bic Runga. “I do think a combination of Kevin Bennett’s experienced mixing and the PA he got to use gave the show an extra clarity and presence that translated to a special experience for the listener. Most of our feedback after the show was not just about the music, but about the sound quality – it seemed to move them.”

Four VTX A12 loudspeakers per side were ground-stacked to cover the floor area, while six VTX A12’s were flown to cover the balcony. 2x JBL VTX G28 subwoofers per side were used for the bottom end.

JBL have completely redesigned the rigging system for the A12 which has made a notable difference when setting up the system.

“The system is amazingly quick to install,” says Kevin Bennett. “When I entered the venue to set up the console, the rigging was almost complete and the PA ready to sound check before I was!”

Kevin mixed the show using Soundcraft’s smaller format Vi2000 digital console – which was just the right size for the band accompanying Bic Runga.

“I have a soft spot for the BSS DPR901ii Dynamic EQ,” quips Bennett. “I am familiar with the earlier generation Vi consoles and the straightforward, analogue-like design that allows for instant responses makes mixing a pleasure, as does the exceptional audio quality and road-proven reliability. Vi2000 is now my go-to console for smaller gigs.”

JBL’s flagship VTX-M professional stage monitors with their excellent sound quality ensured low but clear stage volume so that the musicians never missed a beat.

“We are immensely proud that we were able provide high-quality sound equipment for an icon such as Bic Runga in a venue like The Civic” concludes Tim Robertson, Tour Sound manager for JBL Professional distributor JPRO. “There has been fantastic interest with the VTX A12 locally and our aim is to have it added to more technical riders in the New Zealand market.”

Nano KX is a balanced Bluetooth and analogue volume controller that seamlessly integrates into your production space or mixing console. It is perfect for content creators, home-recording enthusiasts as well as mobile DJs, production companies and performers who want to integrate Bluetooth streaming in non-Bluetooth systems.

Key Features

• Bluetooth wireless audio streaming delivers modern connectivity to analogue systems.
• Compact size gives users high functionality without consuming a great deal of workspace.
• Industrial angle and design elements enhance usability and deliver a sleek look, while a heavy rubber base prevents slipping.
• A balanced XLR combo input and XLR output provide professional grade connections, while a 3.5mm aux input and output allows for monitor extension.
• An illuminated level control ring shows when the unit is powered and helps users to find and adjust controls in low light situations.
• Mini-USB power connection makes it easy to power via USB power supply.

Availability

JPRO is the authorised distributor for JBL Professional in New Zealand. The JBL NANO KX Balanced Bluetooth and Analogue Audio Controller is now available to purchase in NZ .

The Opportunity

The Christchurch Justice and Emergency Services Precinct was the first major government building to be built in Christchurch after a series of devastating earthquakes destroyed the city centre in 2011.

Completed in late 2017, the Precinct was purpose-built with an emphasis on collaboration, bringing together all regional justice and emergency services. The precinct is home to the Ministry of Justice, New Zealand Police, Department of Corrections, St John Ambulance, Fire and Emergency, Civil Defence and Emergency Management services. The Justice Building houses 19 courtrooms and associated court and legal functions.

The Solution

Due to the critical nature of the services rendered by the agencies in the Precinct, reliable specially configured loudspeakers and microphones are needed to reproduce high quality audio.

Leading audio visual systems integrator and supplier of courtroom and chamber technologies, Vega Global (formerly Kodum), were contracted to design, supply and install robust cutting edge audio and visual systems within the Justice and Emergency Services Precinct.

System Features

• JBL Professional Control Contractor series ceiling and wall mounted loudspeakers achieve balanced sound quality and broad, consistent coverage throughout the indoor sections.
• Control 47LP low-profile ceiling speakers are utilised in the areas with limited above-ceiling clearance with JBL’s Radiation Boundary Integrator providing very consistent coverage throughout the listening area.
• Control 47HC loudspeakers with a well-defined narrow coverage pattern provide improved sound quality and intelligibility in reverberant and high ceiling spaces.
• A range of AKG gooseneck and boundary microphones are deployed in the 19 courtrooms providing exceptional sound reproduction through the sound reinforcement and audio visual recording systems.
• Across the Precinct, BSS Soundweb audio processors form an integral part of the audio management and audio distribution.

The Impact

“During the design and construction phase it was essential the audio visual systems would work within the complex IT infrastructure of the Justice and Emergency Services Precinct,” says James Thompson, Civil Defence New Zealand. “The systems are excellent. Kodum were key partners in establishing our audio visual needs and have walked with us every step of the way. Post commissioning they have been readily available to help with fine tuning the system.”

The Opportunity

MediaWorks recently consolidated their Auckland radio facilities into a purpose-built location to house nine of New Zealand’s leading commercial radio stations.

The large 4400m2 converted warehouse located in Hargreaves Street, was specially designed to accommodate 16 studios and production suites, including meeting rooms, open plan offices and a semi-covered pavilion for private functions and guest performances.

The interior design and architecture features are inspired by music and sound, while the state-of-the-art technical infrastructure was conceptualised by the MediaWorks NZ technical team.

The Solution

“The technology that underpins the content delivery from Hargreaves St represents a significant upgrade in capability and is one of the world’s largest deployments of audio-over-IP,” says MediaWorks chairman Jack Matthews.

The studio suites have been optimised to allow for future video recording and live televised broadcasting. Radio Stations such as More FM require various satellite uplinks and local breakouts that simultaneously run a combination of localised and networked programming for different geographical areas.

A world class facility of this nature required affordable world-leading studio monitors for accurate audio in any production space and studio.

A combination of JBL Professional 3 Series 305PMKII 5” and 308PMKII 8” powered reference monitors were selected, depending on the layout of the studio. The JBL 3 series delivers an impressive dynamic range for a variety of music genres between the nine radio stations. The patented Image Control Waveguide provides a wide sweet spot with precise detail and imaging, allowing for tight segues and compelling audio imaging.

The Impact

“We searched world-wide for the best-integrated technologies and have really transcended the limits on what is a once-in-a-lifetime project that we are all so very proud of,” says Mike Heard, Solutions Architect at MediaWorks NZ. “Watching our content and tech teams work in complete harmony to achieve this goal and seeing each station and show go to air in their flash new studios has been incredibly rewarding. The feedback we have received from our colleagues and the added smiles behind the mic have elevated our shows to a whole new level. Our next brand is a few months away but will be the most innovative radio build in NZ, if not the world. Hold on tight it’s going to be a heck of a ride.”

We are pleased to introduce JBL BRX300 Series modular line array systems for small to mid-size applications.

The BRX300 Series is a versatile line array for bands, DJs, rental firms, houses of worship and anyone who needs a compact, portable system that provides superior fidelity, class-leading output and consistent front-to-back coverage in a range of sound-reinforcement scenarios.

The modular BRX300 Series makes line array technology accessible to customers who are not fully-trained audio engineers, thanks to its plug-and-play simplicity, built-in amplification and corrective signal processing, smart transport system and hassle-free rigging hardware.

A JBL BRX300 Series demo system is available now in New Zealand.

For further information and to request a demo, please click on the demo button below.

The Opportunity

Park Road Post Production is an award-winning purpose-built facility owned by WingNut Films, the production company of Sir Peter Jackson – the critically acclaimed director of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Trilogy.

The vast facility consists of two large Dolby Premiere and THX certified mix theatres with full Dolby Atmos monitoring, a mid-sized cinema mix theatre, ADR and Foley stages with control rooms, home entertainment mix suites, a 180-seat client theatre, several edit suites, telecine and film laboratory facilities as well as client support spaces.

Park Road Post has an extensive filmography of celebrated blockbuster hits and it was essential that reference monitors with exceptional clarity and detail were installed into the post-production facilities.

The Solution

Park Road Post selected the JBL 9350 Cinema Surround speakers to replace the aging surrounds in the larger mix theatres. The 9350 enhances coverage with configurable vertical and horizontal coverage angles based on where the surround is positioned in the theatre.

In order to provide for an accurate sound reproduction with a broader sweet-spot in the smaller post-production facility, JBL’s 708P powered master reference monitors were chosen for a Left-Centre-Right arrangement.

System Features:

• JBL 708P Powered Master Reference Monitors set up in a left-centre-right configuration provide an expansive soundstage and greater accuracy.
• JBL 9350 Cinema Surround loudspeakers were selected for an immersive surround and rear audio experience. The coverage can be adjusted to fit a theatre’s unique environment.

The Impact

“JBL Professional has been in the movie business since the very beginning, providing innovation in cinematic audio. Leading production facilities around the world choose JBL and we rely on the advanced engineering, patented technologies and superior sonic character and dynamic range to create a premium cinematic sound experience,” says John Neill, Director of Engineering – Sound at Park Road Post.

“Great films are inevitably made with the minimum of compromise,” states Peter Jackson “That same clarity of vision guided us when we put this facility together.”

WHANGAREI, AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND. AV and ICT integration company Skopik has selected JBL Professional Screen Array loudspeakers and Crown amplification for a private 24-person 4K cinema at The Palms Lifestyle Village.

The Opportunity

Newly built lifestyle village The Palms required a private 24-person 4K cinema that could be controlled via a user-friendly control system that staff and residents could use with ease.

AV and ICT integration company Skopik were commissioned by The Palms management after viewing and experiencing another cinema installation by Skopik. “When our team visited a previous site, we were immediately impressed by the fidelity of the technical equipment and quality of workmanship conducted by the Skopik team” comments Daniel Skelton, Manager at The Palms Lifestyle Village.

The Solution

Skopik was able to transform an empty shell, into a tiered, fully automated cinema with a JBL 11.1 channel surround sound system.

The company handled acoustic panelling, seating layout, projection calculations, lighting design and audio ease mapping to provide The Palms with a premium cinematic experience.

As a result of their expert knowledge in professional audio and video solutions in NZ, with a large inventory of industry-leading AV equipment, JBL Professional and Crown Audio distributor JPRO was chosen to partner with Skopik on the initial audio design and specification phase of the Cinema.

System Features

• JBL 708i install version of the 7 Series Master Reference Monitors were selected for the left, centre and right channels, positioned behind the 150″ acoustically transparent screen.
• 6x side surrounds and 2x rear surrounds comprise of JBL 8320 Compact Cinema Surround Speakers that were easily installed using the JBL QuickMount.
• The 11.1 suround system is powered using Crown DriveCore CDI4300BL and CDI4600BL amplifiers. The amps have built-in DSP and speaker presets for all JBL speakers, allowing for a faster set up.

The Impact

“We tried our hand at a number of products before relying on JBL Professional for our audio solutions,” says Skopik AV Manager Jeff Sundrum. “JBL’s legacy of innovation in professional and cinematic audio combined with the product offering and audio fidelity is far superior to our other first-hand experiences. We knew that this project would have a premium result.”

It is recommended to update all software programs to maintain maximum compatibility.

JBL Performance Manager is the next-generation software application designed to configure networked audio systems for corporate and live concert events, as well as systems within performance venues such as theatres and houses of worship.

Highlights for the PM update include:

• Better placement of tools for system setup
• Improvements to GUI and zoom functionality
• Simplified amp rack building and renaming
• Sub delay values are now carried over and auto-updated when imported from LAC or adding new circuits
• Group editing and ordering mode improved
• LAC 3.5 includes the latest family of VTX loudspeakers and accessories, including the new JBL VTX B28 dual 18” subwoofer

System Requirements

• Supported Operating Systems:
• 64-bit versions of Windows 7, Windows 8.1 or Windows 10

Minimum Performance Guidelines:

• CPU: 64 bit dual core @ 2.0GHz or better
• Memory: 4GB

Optimal Performance Guidelines:

• CPU: 64 bit dual core @ 2.50 GHz or better
• RAM: 8GB or more
• OS: 64-bit Windows 7 or above
• Storage: SSD

Performance Manager 2.7.0 supported devices:

• JBL VTX A-Series: A12, A12W, A8, B18, B28 models
• JBL VTX V-Series: V25-II, V20, S25, G28 and S28 models
• JBL VTX F Series
• JBL VTX M Series
• JBL VRX900 Series
• JBL powered VerTec Series [with DP-DA installed]
• JBL passive VerTec Series
• Crown I-Tech HD Series
• Crown VRACK 12000
• Crown VRACK 4x3500dbx
• dbx DriveRack® 4800 / 4820

Please make use of the link below to download:

The Opportunity

HU’s Art Farm | Boutique Wedding and Event Venue is situated 30 minutes from Auckland in a picturesque rural setting with majestic elevated views between Coatesville and Riverhead Forest.

The venue was conceptualised by Mrs Hu, a patron of the arts, as an international art residence for performing and visual artists, enabling collaboration and a platform to showcase their work in a custom-built gallery. When the venue is not used as a residence, the facilities are hired out for boutique weddings, corporate events, retreats and accommodation.

The wedding venue and restaurant recently underwent extensive works that included improved acoustics and an upgrade of the sound system for its wedding venue. An important part of the audio requirement was the ability to minimise noise spill from the wedding venue and observe council guidelines in the idyllic setting.

To ensure high quality sound in a controlled environment, HU’s Art Farm | Boutique Wedding and Event Venue contracted Luma Audio Visual to design a high impact sound system with sound monitoring capability.

The Solution

Luma AV engaged with JPRO to provide a unique solution of a HARMAN Professional audio system design in conjunction with SoundEar Visual Noise Solutions to meet strict council requirements of no more than 40dbA at the property boundary.

A SoundEar3-320 noise monitor was specified to provide automated reports and monitor the overall noise level produced in the venue. The SoundEar is integrated with a BSS BLU-50 processor to manage the sound system.

Luma AV selected 16x JBL Control62P pendant speakers matched with 4x Control 50ST subwoofers to achieve a full-range performance and well balanced, distributed sound to meet the SPL requirements of the venue.

System Features:

• SoundEar3-320 noise monitor provides monitoring reports in conjunction with BSS BLU-50, including automated notifications and input gain reduction. It measures and logs the SPL in the room for a period of 600 days, with data accessible via USB for reference.
• JBL Control 62P white pendant speakers provide outstanding pattern control. They are evenly distributed throughout the wedding venue, allowing for consistent volume across the floor at a lower level.
• JBL Control 50ST compact subwoofers are surface mounted to the ceiling and provide high-power low-end bass response for the system.
• The system is powered by a Crown CDi  4300BL DriveCore amplifier with built-in audio presets; it sends and receives signals digitally through HARMAN’s BLU-Link audio bus.
• A JBL EON ONE Compact portable battery powered Bluetooth loudspeaker allows for fast and easy set up of sound reinforcement for outdoor functions, canapes and can be used as a monitor wedge on stage in the venue.

The Impact

“Our primary objective was to minimise noise spill and to meet council requirements of no more than 40dbA at the boundary. This was achieved through a professional audio design, complemented by purpose-built JBL Professional audio products and acoustic absorption and dampening,” says Josh Somerville from Luma. “SoundEar provides an ingenious method to effectively control the volume in the room and meet council noise requirements! SoundEar and BSS BLU-50 work cleverly together to create a big brother approach to noise control in the room. The combination of the JBL Control50 compact surface-mount subwoofers with the Control62P pendant loudspeakers provides an amazing experience for music and speech applications in the wedding venue that must be heard to be believed. Our client is exceedingly happy with the achieved result of meeting all objectives of this project.”

“We have improved our acoustics by installing white acoustic drapes and ceiling panels, while all air gaps are acoustically insulated,” says a HU’s Art Farm spokesperson. Our new professional JBL audio system allows for easy operation by any DJ and includes Bluetooth connectivity. The array of loudspeakers deliver crisp, clear sound with no dead spots when used for music or speech. The small portable battery powered sound system is reliable to use for our outdoor functions and easy to carry to other areas where needed. We are very pleased with this project and look forward to many successful events at HU’s Art Farm | Boutique Wedding and Event Venue.”

Tech Talk

JPRO’s technical design team adds “The system at HU’s farm was designed to deliver an outstanding music performance and experience – with the control of loudness. SoundEar provides an easy solution to reduce noise levels for businesses and institutions that need to comply with regulation. The system is designed to prevent the SPL from exceeding the limit and this is achieved using a limiter in the DSP for the PA, as well as a SoundEar 320 that monitors the ambient SPL in the room. If this exceeds a pre-determined average SPL over a minute, it triggers the BLU-50 DSP to reduce the input gain of the PA, thereby controlling the overall noise reduction in the room.”

“The use of quality loudspeakers with exceptional coverage is important in achieving this result. The design specification required multiple JBL Control62P pendant speakers distributed throughout the venue at a lower SPL. Unlike conventional loudspeakers mounted on speaker stands that need to be loud at the front to reach the back (thereby introducing loudness issues), SPL from the distributed Control62P system could be lower as it produces equal loudness across the coverage area.”

Nestled in Henderson Valley in Western Auckland, Whoa! Studios is a state-of-the-art film studio and theatre specialising in live action, puppetry and miniatures. Its flagship offering is an original, world class, live show based on the characters and sets of Custard’s World – adapted for stage from a script by Bob Baker, BAFTA award winning screenwriter of Wallace & Gromit.

Whoa’s owner David Sutherland wanted to create an exciting family destination in Auckland with unforgettable live experiences. He says “It started out as an idea to do something fun for children and for families, to do something that was different to what they had engaged with before. We wanted to try and do something that was magical.”

David’s vision has resulted in a world class facility with a children’s adventure playground, a modern family restaurant and hi-tech studio and theatre facilities. In order to realise this vision and create a truly immersive experience alongside the mix of puppets, digital effects and live action from within the main stage movie set, leading world class AV technologies were needed.

World Class meant that one of New Zealand’s top integration companies, ITAV was called upon to knit together this immersive experience that would create lasting memories. Their brief was clear: sound quality, flexibility and ease of use.

Consultant and ITAV Integrator Paul Ivory had no doubts when it came to selecting his team that would partner on this project. Paul declares “I called on the best of the best in all different aspects of this project.”

Leading AV equipment supplier and specialists in Sound System and Video Distribution design JPRO were selected because of their far-reaching support, emphasis on relationship, as well as audio and product knowledge base.

AMX specialist Quentin White designed the video and switching distribution system. Projector mapping was suggested in conjunction with specialist lighting to create themes for the shows. AMX touch panels control scene changes, projectors and video monitors. This resulted in a unique part of the delivery and a main component now written into all live shows.

JPRO Sales Director and Audio Designer Paul Edlin designed the fully integrated networked audio system for the theatre and restaurant. BSS Soundweb and Soundcraft Vi3000 are an integral part of the audio distribution and essentially, the heart of the theatre system.

The primary objective was to keep as much of the Audio Signal in the digital domain as possible. Audio was passed in and out of the Vi3000 via Dante, into the BSS BLU-806 signal processor before reaching the Crown DCi Amplifiers that powered the JBL CBT-70J Array speakers and eight Zones such as the Green Room and back of stage.

Audio outputs for the live film studio and theatre were configured in 7.1 and 5.1 respectively. This was not only for a surround sound effect, but for localised sources as puppets came in from different locations around the room.

For the theatre, the first choice of speakers for Paul Ivory was always going to be the JBL CBT 70’s. “They are great for speech and music” he says, “the array of the speakers is perfect for having clear sound for the front and back end of the room; there was nothing else that came close to that decision.”

The new AKG MicroLite HC81 headworn microphones were selected as they are comfortable and lightweight to wear for the actors while the AKG wireless microphone technology used has a track record of solid reliability.

Through clever configuration and use of the Soundcraft VISI App, from an operator’s point of view the Soundcraft Vi3000 mixing console provided the central control point for all performance areas.

Paul Edlin from JPRO explains the use of the VISI integration: “Vi3000 controls all the actors and playback audio within the main theatre and on the second layer it controls audio in the second theatre.” This resulted in a cost saving of an additional mixing surface. Paul continues, “So the main theatre can be running a show and the second theatre can simultaneously run another show with audio controlled via the VISI iPad App.”

The approach to the AV design for the restaurant and mezzanine areas is equally as ingenious, with exceptional sound quality produced by the unobtrusive JBL Pendant speakers.

“You can walk throughout the café, into the parent’s area, toilets, the shop into the entrance way and the sound is all even, it is not overbearing in any area” states ITAV’s Paul Ivory.

All AV technologies such as switching on projectors and lowering screens, operating lights and adjusting volume are controlled on a touch panel system via an automated process. Third party systems control is made simple and easy to execute with Audio Architect and AMX seamlessly integrating together.

Through effective communication, simplistic AV and sound system design and leading World Class products from Harman Professional, the teams from ITAV and JPRO were able to put together a solution that will provide simplistic user operation for staff, and unforgettable live experiences for families.

David Sutherland concludes “We wanted to exceed expectations. I didn’t think it would be as good as this result – and that makes it all worthwhile.”

The Opportunity

Newmarket, Auckland New Zealand: New Zealand’s largest mall, Westfield Newmarket, recently underwent a complete redevelopment to incorporate Westfield Broadway 277 and 309 to form a new benchmark as a world-class retail and lifestyle destination.

The new mall consists of over 200 specialty stores, gymnasium, 6 screen cinema complex and a new rooftop lifestyle, dining and entertainment precinct.

To fulfil the developer’s requirement of a premium shopping experience, a high-quality multi-zone audio system was needed to provide an even distribution of background and foreground music with multi-level zone capability.

To ensure the project was completed on time with superior audio quality throughout the complex, Westfield Newmarket hired Oceanic Communications Limited (OCL) to install the audio system.

The Solution

JBL Professional’s range of installed audio solutions were selected as the loudspeakers were able to meet the stringent specifications for audio quality, volume and STI readings as well as aesthetic requirement.

OCL outfitted the redeveloped Westfield Newmarket with a Dante enabled networked audio system that included JBL Professional loudspeakers, BSS Audio Processing, Atterotech I/O endpoints, AKG paging microphones and Crown CDI installed audio amplifiers. System design and equipment was provided by leading NZ distributor JPRO.

System Features:

• JBL 8128 commercial loudspeakers with high sensitivity drivers provided maximum amplifier power efficiency.
• High Performance loudspeakers for the Entertainment zones include ceiling mounted JBL Control47LP low profile wide-coverage loudspeakers, JBL CBT70-J IP rated column array speakers and JBL Control 85 360-degree landscape speakers.
• State-of-the-art auto-sensing Plug ’n Play zones with Atterotech UND6IO wall plates for Dante audio distribution.
• Crown CDI4300 and CDI41200 energy efficient installed power amplifiers, programmed with auto-on and auto-off features.
• BSS BLU-806 audio processing and Atterotech UNDIO2x2 Dante Interfaces allowed seamless Dante integration for the entire complex, incorporating all BSS and AKG paging stations.
• A customised Master Control Panel in the main server room allows quick monitoring and control of the audio in over 40 zones.

The Impact

“We were comfortable providing a design with STI readings as JBL manufacture a variety of loudspeakers that are purpose-built for their application” says JPRO’s audio design team. “Professional quality speakers provide better audio coverage at a lower volume, and this in turn works favourably for our customer as less speakers are needed due to the efficiency of the loudspeaker and accuracy of the predictions in a system design.”

“The audio coverage and quality for this scale of project is exceptional,” says a spokesperson for OCL. “The integration and usage of Dante in the system, along with the Atterotech wall plates are really creative. The range of JBL speakers work seamlessly together, and the JBL CBT-70 with the Control82M landscape speakers create a very full and extremely clear sound in the rooftop and entertainment precinct. We appreciate the extra effort into making it easy to monitor and control over 40 zones from the main server room – we are truly pleased with the overall outcome.”

Auckland, New Zealand. The Stardome Observatory and Planetarium in Auckland’s One Tree Hill Domain recently upgraded its Cinema and Live Performance System with a 5.1 surround multi-purpose high-performance JBL AE Series sound system.

The new system was specified and installed by AV Integration company Avid Automation after they were called upon by the Auckland Observatory and Stardome team to provide a state-of-the-art sound system for the planetarium theatre.

Stardome opened to the public in 1967 as an observatory, while New Zealand’s largest planetarium theatre was added in 1997. The 360-degree panoramic theatre allows for a complete immersive experience with a full-dome concave screen on which 360-degree films are projected with laser projectors, IMAX model angled seating and the brand new JBL Professional AE series surround sound system.

“A system of this nature is a significant investment,” says Darian Sundar, Director at Avid Automation. “The venue is open to the public with performances 6 days a week, requiring the selected system to work day-in and day-out – so for Stardome and Avid Automation, localised support, reliability and versatility was key in our decision making.”

Leading specialists in sound system design and JBL distributor JPRO were chosen to assist with the supply and commissioning because of their product knowledge base and approach to the system design.

Darian Sundar continues “The primary use of the system would be to provide an immersive 5.1 cinema experience, but the theatre also doubles as a live performance venue for small bands and events – everything from strings to electronica. So, whilst having to offer an accurate cinematic experience the system would need to be capable of handling larger SPL to accommodate live performances.”

JPRO Sales Director Paul Edlin and his audio design team specified JBL AE Series loudspeakers for the theatre. “JBL have an extensive range of purpose-built products that are manufactured in-house. The AE series are specifically manufactured for theatrical sound design and performing arts facilities, so we knew that they would suit the scope of this project perfectly.”

To fit in with the demanding schedule of the Stardome and minimise down time, the Avid Automation team were given two days to remove the old infrastructure and install the new system. Knowing that this would not be enough time AVID implemented all the new system cable infrastructure ahead of time after evening show times.

“We needed to be ready for business as usual Tuesday morning,” says Darian. “To achieve this the entire sound and control systems were built off-site at the Avid workshop. We essentially torture tested the system through multiple configuration modes such as it would be used in real day-to-day use – this is the only way we could be confident that any programming issues where found and resolved. The ability to plot all JBL speakers in a 3D model of the Stardome gave us the confidence that we knew it would work 100 percent. The translation into a real-life installation was incredibly accurate with very little tweaking necessary, saving us heaps of time.”

Due to the shape of the venue, all brackets and flyware were custom-built and physically attached to the exterior of the Stardome structure.  The surround system comprises of 2x JBL AM7215-95 High Power 2-Way Loudspeakers for Left and Right, while a JBL AM7215-26 with a 120° x 60° rotatable waveguide provide accurate audio for the critical centre channel.

JBL AC18/95 compact 2-way loudspeakers were selected for the surround channels as their enclosure design allows for installation very close to the ceiling, providing a smooth, natural immersive audio experience throughout the intended listening area.

Three JBL VTX-B18 single 18″ high performance subwoofers provide a solid bass foundation for a ground-shaking experience.

“The cardioid sub array configuration is simply magic and is an integral part of the system design,” enthuses Darian. “It allows the performance volume of the bass to be focused into the room without sub-bass spill into the foyer and office areas.”

Amplification and system management is achieved with two Crown DriveCore CDI41200BL power amplifiers. “That allowed for an impressive mix of high-performance and ease of use. Taking full advantage of the preloaded JBL Speaker tunings allowed us to get the best performance not only out of the speakers but the amplifiers as well.

Additional audio system processing, including Dante distribution and interfacing with the venues fire evacuation system was achieved with a BSS BLU-806 signal processor.

The Stardome system is used on heavy rotation daily by various Stardome operators, including volunteers. It was essential that a user-friendly operating system was implemented that could be understood and operated by all. Avid Automation designed a custom touch panel interface known as ‘TP Mode’ that could be used to operate the system via the touch panel or switch the system over to ‘Console Mode’ where the Soundcraft Si Performer digital mixer with Dante card and MSB16 stage box was the main controller for live performance events.

The interface was designed in collaboration with the client to ensure it was easy and intuitive to use. Specific ‘dark mode’ colour palates were chosen to not only minimise light pollution within the observatory during shows but to also tie in with the Soundcraft Fader Glow colour coded layers of the Si Performer for continuity.

Darian Sundar concludes: “The HARMAN Professional range of products and JPRO were the only choice for us and our client to achieve all the objectives with minimal downtime. It is not only about the product; it is also about the knowledge pool that you tap into and the service you get and with this in mind everyone one benefitted.”

Designed to work with JBL Intellivox products along with any point source speakers in the JBL portfolio using common loudspeaker format (CLF) data, DDA software is a powerful simulation tool for electro-acoustic design. DDA enables sound designers to visualise and statistically predict direct SPL, total SPL, D/R ratio, STI and delay spread.

Designed to offer improved workflow, the licence free 5.1 update adds two significant new features. DDA 5.1 streamlines the registration process and removes the need for repeated license renewal found in earlier versions of the software. DDA 5.1 also includes the new SketchUp plug-in, which enables users to easily import 3D geometry from SketchUp software.

Intellivox makes use of JBL’s advanced beam shaping (DDS) technologies. From DDA the radiation pattern of JBL Intellivox loudspeaker arrays can be controlled precisely and tailored to the shape and the acoustics of the space. In addition, DDA offers various design tools which reduce design time and help the sound designer to optimise the system performance. For installation and commissioning purposes DDA also generates FIR output filters which can be uploaded to supported DDS-controlled loudspeaker arrays using the JBL WinControl software.

DDA 5.1 and the SketchUp Interface are available to download free of charge from the JBL website here.

Local and International artists including Peking Duk, Sticky Fingers, London Elektricity, Shapeshifter, Ladi6, Tash Sultana and rapping superstar Cardi B formed part of the line-up.

In only four years, Bay Dreams has fast become one of New Zealand’s best summer festivals. The event began in 2016 with 5,000 attendees to over 30,000 in 2019 for the North Island event. A second South Island location has now been added to the itinerary in the city of Nelson.

NZ Sound Reinforcement, a full-service production company deployed a stunning JBL Professional audio solution for the second stage with a combined audio output of 500,000 watts RMS that included the innovative JBL VTX A12 and new VTX A8 line array elements.

Having recently become part of the JBL VTX A-series family in New Zealand, NZ Sound owners Ray and Brenda Ward are exceedingly happy. “We are blown away; Bay Dreams was pretty epic. The JBL VTX A12 and A8 systems have performed even beyond our expectations – they sound amazing. JBL certainly helped the artists to put on some of their best performances and the crowd loved it,” says Brenda Ward.

Ray Ward adds: “The new JBL VTX A-Series systems have provided an amazing experience for all involved, from the artists to the spectators. The systems have shown impressive coverage outdoors, providing a very smooth and natural top-end. We look forward to providing incredible sound for the summer festivals and international artists making their way to New Zealand in the coming months. We thank organisers Pato Alvarez and Mitch Lowe for putting on another sold-out masterpiece.”

System Features

NZ Sound deployed a complete JBL Professional audio system featuring 24 VTX A12 line array loudspeakers on the main hang and 18 of the all-new smaller format VTX A8 line array loudspeakers on side hangs. Due to the nature of the performances, 24 ground shaking VTX G28 subwoofers provided tight, powerful bass coverage. Infills comprised of 8 VTX F12 12” biamplified loudspeakers.

Stage monitoring was equally impressive, allowing for exceptional audio for all performers with 16 JBL VTX M20 dual 10” and 4 VTX M22 dual 12” tour monitors for DJ and drum wedges. 2 VT4883 subwoofers took care of the drum subs with side-fills consisting of 2 VTX F35 dual 15” 3-way enclosures and 2 G28 subs.

All amplification was provided by Crown V-Racks with Crown iTech 3500 amplifiers, totalling in excess of 500,000 watts of sound power. Audio System management and control were handled through JBL HiQnet Performance Manager software and system set-up made easy with JBL’s Line Array Calculator.

The Impact

“Performance Manager and Line Array Calculator has helped save time and energy as we were able to pre-configure settings and system alignment before the event,” says Tim Robertson from local JBL distributor JPRO, who provided technical support and system design for the event. “System predictions have been very accurate and minor tweaks were needed once the system was loaded in and set up.”

NZ Sound is set to bring exceptional audio coverage to the Summer Festivals and international artists such as Bryan Adams, Toto and UB40 who are making their way to New Zealand in the coming months.

At the time of writing, with the new Bay Dreams location on his mind, organiser Mitch Lowe can hardly contain himself. “This is easily the most impressive event we have ever put together, I am ecstatic. Its off to Nelson we go!”

He runs Music Radio Creative, a leading audio provider and production company for radio, DJs and podcasters. Through his business and YouTube channel, Mike helps people create great sounding audio.

Mike recently took the JBL 104 Reference Desktop Speakers for a spin saying, “These monitors are fantastic… I can’t say enough good things. Really good quality for content creators!”

Watch the full review here:

Stage & Audio’s owner Tim Buchholz first owned a pair of JBL K140s back in the 1970s and he was blown away by the A8’s high-end performance, courtesy of the A-Series’ revolutionary new drivers and waveguide. These designs are responsible for the A-Series redefining the ‘JBL Sound’ and winning over long-term JBL fans and sceptics alike. “I have never heard clarity like that or top end that accurate in all my years working in pro audio. The level of performance is ridiculous,” enthuses Tim. “I’ve simply never heard anything like it. It’s still JBL, but noticeably more ‘European’. It’s a totally new sound.”

19 elements of JBL A8 have joined Stage & Audio’s inventory. Crown iTech HD3500 power amplifiers have also been brought in to supplement their existing racks, and the rig has just been augmented by the recent acquisition of 12 x JBL B18 Subwoofers.

The A8s have already been out working hard in their first two weeks, covering a Queen tribute band, the Rockhampton River Festival across two stages, and an awards night. “After these jobs, all our in-house engineers and guest techs that have mixed on them can talk about is the high-end performance. It’s such a step up,” adds Tim.

“Overall, the A8s have fantastic linearity,” concludes Tim. “There’s a newness to their sound, and you know every parameter and every frequency is being carefully watched over by advanced FIR filters, and compression and control algorithms. It creates and natural, sophisticated sound that is comparable to the best European touring systems on the market.”

Available in a stylish matte white or matte black finish, JBL 104-BT and 104-BTW are reference quality. Combining legendary sound quality, class-leading performance and flexibility with the convenience of Bluetooth for many desktop applications.

JBL 104 BT Reference Desktop Speaker Set is suitable for both consumer and critical audio listening. It makes the essentials list as the finest sounding speaker set to have on your desktop for WFH, remote learning, multimedia content creation and even audiophile listening.

With JBL One Series reference monitors, we started with the mission to give content creators the ability to hear all the details for better results while mixing and editing. Drawing on seven decades of JBL Professional engineering, the One Series represents an innovative new set of speakers, designed from the ground up to provide the most accurate sonic presentation of any monitors in their class.

With the amazing sound that’s made JBL the top choice for recording studios, cinemas and live concert stages in compact, affordable, and stylish desktop speakers, the JBL 104 Powered Reference Monitors and 104-BT Powered Reference Monitors with Bluetooth are ideal for recording musicians, podcasters, and music and video producers— as well as anyone seeking enjoyable listening experience.

Ducking temporarily lowers, or “ducks,” the volume level of a specified audio signal anytime a second specified audio signal is present. In live sound, ducking is commonly used to lower background music anytime a person speaks, then raise it when that person finishes speaking, as in the emcee example above. This technique can be employed in any scenario where you need to be heard over backing tracks, whether you’re hosting an event, giving a speech or teaching a fitness class.

Ducking isn’t limited to live sound; in the studio, ducking is used when recording narrations, voiceovers, translations, podcasts, YouTube videos, and other productions that benefit from lowering background music under speech. It’s even used (or more accurately, misused) creatively in EDM and pop music production to trigger volume “pumping” and other special effects. (Great examples of pumping include Eric Prydz’ “Call on Me” and Daft Punk’s “One More Time.”) A ducker can also be inserted in a reverb or delay line to manipulate those effects.

Whether you’re performing live or in the studio, ducking is a fast and easy way to manage audio levels, make room for all of the elements in your mix and ensure your voice is always heard, loud and clear.