Due to the stadium's design, D.A.S. Audio technicians were unable to hang a central cluster in this open-air stadium. Furthermore, they were restricted by UEFA regulations on the maximum height of the billboards, behind which the systems would have to be located. After studying the venue's particular characteristics the team recommended deploying 28 of the new powered Aero 40A Advanced Line Array Systems (ALAS), convinced that the Aero 40As' reliability, power and clarity would provide top-of-the-line sound pressure and coverage.
To meet the UEFA's height regulations and distribute the line arrays for optimum coverage, D.A.S. engineers came up with an innovative solution, designing 14 custom dolly platforms, each mounting a pair of Aero 40A systems with the lower system "pointing" at the lower tier of the grandstand and the upper system targeting the upper tiers. The dolly's special feature allows for a steep degree of positive angle for the lower system, needed due to the proximity of the first seats.
The 14 dollies were distributed to cover the stadium's four main areas. Three units provide the sound for the covered stands on one side of the field; five cover the opposite side; three are directed at the North side of the stands and another three handle the South Side. Each of the four zones (sides and ends) features a DASnet rack to remotely control and manage the systems.
Each rack includes a D.A.S. DSP-2060A digital signal processor for managing the audio signal, a patch panel for the audio and data signals that connect the racks, a DASnet panel to receive and carry signals, data and power to the Aero 40A systems and a three-way 32A power distro with six single-phase 16A outputs to connect to the main power supply. Protecting the systems from inclement weather are 14 custom made weatherproof covers. The sound systems can used without removing these covers which simply folded back over the top of the mounted systems.
This solution designed around mobile Aero 40A systems is an effective alternative for venues such as the iconic Vicente Calderon Stadium, where flown systems are not a viable solution. The set-up allows the D.A.S. Aero 40A's a chance to shine in yet another unique application, providing excellent intelligibility and coverage as evidenced during the recent Champions League semi-final clash between Club Atlético de Madrid and Chelsea F.C., when the systems were put through their paces providing outstanding performance for the fans that packed the stands.
(Jim Evans)
