JBL proves itself at The Piano
Published: ASIA
NEW ZEALAND: The latest project involving Australian and New Zealand-based distributor Jands has seen an all-Harman audio solution installed at The Piano, a world-class music and arts facility in Canterbury, New Zealand. Jands became involved in the project following an integrator’s request to provide several quotes for some specified products. According to Jands, the consultant in charge of designing the system had set a ‘a high benchmark for performance using a well-known and trusted theatre speaker brand’. The distributor was then also asked by the integrator, Shipley’s Audiovisual, to provide a speaker alternative as a point of difference.
Modelling in EASE, Jands reportedly demonstrated that JBL’s SRX800 series speakers would be able to exceed the required performance specifications while also saving the customer ‘a considerable amount’, an important consideration for the venue which is owned by a charitable trust.
‘The JBL SRX800 speakers offer a really smooth and clean sound, plus the power to really impress when required all at a price that was affordable,’ explained Russell Williams from Shipleys.
The venue’s concert hall now feature five JBL SRX812P 12-inch powered loudspeakers in an LCR configuration, with two SRX818P 18-inch active subwoofers on casters that can be rolled out as required. Control25AV 5-inch speakers have been deployed for front-fill, while a BSS Soundweb Bl-100 12 x 8 processor provides overall control in addition to two EC-8BV wall controllers for basic control of the lectern microphone, wireless microphone system and audio from the projectors, plus two iPads for remote control. The iPads have control pages designed using Harman’s HiQNet Motion Control software. A Soundcraft Si-Impact has also been installed for FOH monitoring for live shows, and takes feeds from an MSB stagebox linked via Cat-5.
An AKG DMS800 digital wireless system with antenna distro is used for announcements in the hall and can also be routed via Soundweb to any part in the facility. An AKG GN15 gooseneck with a CK80 shotgun capsule has been installed in the lectern.
‘Working closely in conjunction with Jands has been extremely important on this project,’ concluded Mr Russell. ‘Having direct access to product specific expertise and onsite support from our Christchurch-based Jands representative ensured a smooth system rollout within a very tight time frame to the complete satisfaction of the customer and main contractor.’