PA Plus utilised 80 Crown I-Tech amplifiers to power the large format JBL VerTec line array. "In order to maintain both group and independent control over all the arrays, we chose to use the Crown I-Tech amplifiers along with HiQnet System Architect software to provide all the required processing," stated Mark Radu, systems engineer of PA Plus.
"We tuned the basic 30,000 seat system within System Architect and stored it as a preset. As we added array sections to attain coverage up to the full 55,000-seat capacity, the system was re-tuned and saved as a preset. The Crown I-Tech amplifiers and System Architect gave us all the processing power and flexibility we needed."
The Rogers Centre proved to be an acoustically challenging venue, due to its massive amount of concrete and glass with a retractable steel dome roof that extends 325ft above the field. Additionally, a large portion of ticket sales were sold during the day of the event, therefore there was no accurate way to predict what areas of the stadium would need sound coverage.
"The system design worked as planned and we were able to focus acoustic energy only where it needed and minimise spill," added Radu. "John Lacina, our senior engineer, did a great job with the FOH mix and was really able to make the system shine in such an acoustically demanding environment. Overall, considering all the challenges involved, I think everyone was pleasantly surprised with the final result."
(Jim Evans)
