NEW ORLEANS – The Solomon Group and Interstate Electronics designed and installed a sound system for the New Orleans Saints' new 60,000-square-foot tailgating Mecca, Champions Square. They used direct weather loudspeakers from One Systems including 212IMs (24 units), 112IMs (18 units) and 212Sub-Ws subwoofers (10 units).
The selling points for Solomon Group included sound quality, weatherproofing and price. The square, which holds approximately 8,000 fans, is a high-noise sports and live music venue requiring intelligible speakers that perform well for both music and spoken word applications.
One Systems' patented Equivalent Throat horn/driver technology and high-output Inside/Only woofers helped clinch the decision for Solomon Group partner Stephen Fink. "There was a need to incorporate different voice settings depending on usage. One Systems models carry all voice and recorded music and act as a supplement when the live-music stage is in use, in order to reach the extremities of the space."
Each One Systems speaker is secured to truss or cement enclosures by 212IM-U U U-brackets. "We thought we would have to give up sound quality for weatherproofing requirements, but the 112 and 212IMs provide both," said Fink. "We were looking for a budget-conscious solution for good outdoor audio performance that could withstand the unpredictable New Orleans weather."
The project started under budget and time constraints. "Not only was One Systems able to meet our budget, but with a short turn-around time of two months, they were able to deliver on time," Fink noted.
Working closely with Interstate Electronics' managing partner Mike Rideau, speakers were positioned specifically for different areas of the T-shaped square.
The design utilizes distributed loudspeakers in sections using a combination of 112IM, 212IM and 212Sub-W's and a Peavey Neon M3 Digital Processor that provides all of the processing for the system.
"This was an odd space to configure, but through strategic placement of all 42 speakers, we were able to cover the space evenly. Every fan is reached and is able to clearly understand music and announcements," said Fink.
Champions Square completed its $13.5 million construction in August 2010. It includes an open standing-room-only area surrounded by patio-style tables along the edge, a 36-foot by 32-foot stage for live music, as well as an 18-by-32 foot LED screen.
In addition to pre-game celebrations, there are also numerous live concerts and events scheduled to continue throughout the year. With One Systems speakers mounted to scaffolding and the cement wall surrounding the square directed towards the center, the new system provides seamless coverage to fans.
"We are very proud to be a part of New Orleans' rich music and cultural history and support the Saints. Champions Square is a great example of an outdoor, multi-use facility and our speakers work especially well in these high-noise environments," said One Systems president Doug MacCallum.
For more information, please visit www.onesystems.com.
