McClelland Sound of Wichita, Kansas, designed numerous systems of varying complexity, performance, and price using Danley Direct 3D modelling software to upgrade the sound reinforcement system, ultimately arriving at the simplicity of a single Danley Sound Labs J1-94 Jericho Synergy Horn mounted on an I-beam in the end zone and powered by two of their DNA 20K4 Pro amplifiers.
McClelland Sound had installed the previous distributed sound reinforcement system, which met the facility's needs at the time, but as game-day production technology evolved, expectations for increased volume and impact grew. Due to speaker placement restrictions of the old system, louder volumes led to several distinct arrivals from the various loudspeakers, which wreaked havoc on the system's intelligibility and made music sound sloppy. In addition, the desire for a more modern full-range frequency response, with smooth, articulated highs and jaw-dropping, thundering bass, drove the decision to pursue options to replace the old system which was tailored primarily for speech.
"We've had a great relationship with the school officials who are responsible for Memorial Stadium, and this upgrade started with a casual conversation," explained Paul Colella, vice president with McClelland Sound. "They wanted a better overall audio experience, one that better matched contemporary expectations. We immediately looked at products from Danley Sound Labs to give them a zero-compromise solution within their budget."
The Danley Sound Labs J1-94 Jericho Synergy Horn fires down the field, covering both home and visitor seating sections as well as the field itself. Two DNA 20K4 Pro amplifiers power the loudspeaker. BSS processing and fiber transmission for signal routing (using BSS BLU Link) and control (using standard Ethernet protocol) join a new Soundcraft Performer digital console at the front of the system.
The BSS interface allows users to select between console control for games and other big events and simple, tech-free control for events involving just a few microphones and a music source. New Shure QLX-D wireless microphones provide reliable, full-frequency inputs and Shure wireless personal monitors allow on-field presenters or vocalists to deal with the physical propagation delay of the loudspeaker. SurgeX surge protection, power sequencing, and UPS (for the DSP) complete the system.
"Everyone involved is delighted with the outcome," said Colella. "It's a great system, with plenty of clarity, intelligibility, headroom, and musical impact... In fact, we were able to hear it clear on the opposite side of town during commissioning! The low end is boastful and impactful, which keeps spectators smiling."
(Jim Evans)
