MONDO | STADIA - Issue 27 - December | January

LIVERPOOL 2022

MVM DOME

SPARTAN STADIUM

SANTIAGO BERNABÉU STADIUM

ADI transform the ACC Liverpool into a spectacular sports venue for the World Gymnastics Championships.

An in-depth look at the technology installed at Europe’s largest handball arena in Budapest.

Michigan State Spartans’ home undergoes at complete audio revamp, courtesy of Fulcrum Acoustic.

A preview of the Daktronics LED halo display system that will be unveiled at the home of Real Madrid in 2023.

ISSUE 27 - DECEMBER | JANUARY 2022/23

THE INTERNATIONAL PUBLICATION FOR TECHNOLOGY IN SPORTING VENUES

Don’t miss us at: ISE 2023 | Jan 31 - Feb 3 Booth 7F200

27 WELCOME

t’s the final issue of the year before we head into 2023 - and we’re delighted to feature a whole host of state-of-the-art sporting venues showcasing incredible design and uses of technology.

Our cover story is the home of NHL’s Minnesota Wild, Xcel Energy Center, which recently installed a new reinforcement system based around Meyer Sound’s PANTHER large format, line array loudspeakers. In fact, it’s the world’s largest PANTHER install to date.

We’ve taken a closer look at the incredible setup at the World Gymnastics Championships 2022. ADI completely transfomed the ACC Liverpool into a world-class, visually-stunning sports venue. Definitely one to check out on page 20.

Over in Budapest, we’ve taken a deep dive into MVM Dome - Europe’s largest handball arena. With technology from the likes of Outline, Pharos and Robe, it’s a really impressive project.

Elsewhere, there’s a feature on Michigan State University’s Spartan Stadium, where Fulcrum Acoustic have put its AHS series to the test and passed with flying colours.

Looking ahead to next year, we’ve got a preview of Daktronics’ LED halo system that due to be unveiled at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.

For Team Talk, Bendac’s Founder and Managing Director, Ben Da Costa has given us some great insight into the fast-growing company, with new projects and services planned for the new year.

Finally, I hope you all have a great Christmas. See you in 2023!

I

Sam Hughes Editorial Director

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27 INSIDE…

Cover Image: Luke Schmidt

Editorial Director Sam Hughes s.hughes@mondiale.co.uk

Commercial Director Jamie Dixon j.dixon@mondiale.co.uk

Design & Production Dan Seaton d.seaton@mondiale.co.uk

Dave Bell d.bell@mondiale.co.uk

Finance Director Amanda Giles a.giles@mondiale.co.uk

Credit Control ar@mondiale.co.uk

Group Chairman Damian Walsh

MONDO | STADIA is published by Mondiale Media Limited, Strawberry Studios, Watson Square, Stockport, SK1 3AZ, UK Tel: +44 161 476 8340

Printed By Buxton Press

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TEAM TALK

VENUE FOCUS

006 Ben Da Costa, Bendac

AUDIO

046 Spartan Stadium | Michigan, USA 050 Memorial Stadium | Clemson, USA

THE FULL PITCH 012 Xcel Energy Center | Minnesota, USA

VIDEO

020 World Gymnastics Championships | Liverpool, UK

054 Santiago Bernabéu Stadium | Madrid, Spain

030 MVM Dome | Budapest, Hungary LIGHTING 058 Nationals Park | Washington, D.C., USA

EXTRA TIME 062 In Detail | DELTACAST 064 Full Time | BDP Pattern

BEN DA COSTA CO-FOUNDER & MANAGING DIRECTOR, BENDAC Innovators of Visual Technology Images: Bendac

even years ago, David Da Costa

solutions to enhance venues. From design and

that includes the framework, cabling, power

and I set up Bendac to take LED

manufacturing, all of the framework, shipping

and data infrastructure. We can do a content

display solutions to the next level.

the products, expertly installing them, offering

management plan, too, looking at integration

The business was grown to be more

maintenance and support, right through to even

between screens, for example. Other software

than just a sales operation – our vision was

producing the content – it’s all done in house,

the club is running can also be taken into

to have engineers, project managers, account

from concept to completion.

consideration - whether it’s ticketing or the

S

managers, and more. With our state-of-the-art UK showroom, located in the West of England,

shop, for example – we will look at taking that

COVERING EVERY STEP OF THE LED VISION

it allows the whole Bendac team to deliver a

006

information and displaying it on the screens.

We then manage the whole manufacturing

customisable, hands-on approach in creating

To breakdown what we provide within our full

process and carry out extensive testing on the

LED solutions.

turnkey solution, from a design point of view,

kit. Once it’s ready, we’ll look at the logistics

We always believed this was the right way,

we offer a digital auditing service, which will

and ensure the products arrive safely. As part

especially when you have clients spending a

involve us visiting a sporting venue and taking

of the process, our engineers, overseen by

huge chunk of budget on LED displays without

a look at what digital assets are there already.

our installation leads, will get the framework

ever seeing the technology or meeting the team

We take an in-depth look at what a club has

and infrastructure in place for a full Bendac

that will be installing it. For the sports industry

and help them to work out if it is fulfilling the

installation of the designs that the client has

in particular, it’s something that we feel is vital.

needs of the venue itself. It’s not just a case of

signed off.

Everything else within the industry is precise

providing new LED screens. If they have great

Once the LED displays are in, on some projects,

and focussed on the marginal gains when on

LED technology already, we know that we

we will also provide content. This could be

the pitch – and that’s how we want to help

can assist in the making the most of it – and

in-bowl animations in relation to the on-pitch

clubs and sporting venues approach it off the

that’s something that a lot of our clients really

action or abstract visuals for hospitality areas.

pitch, too.

appreciate.

We have designers in house that deliver the

So, that’s why we’ve always invested in our

From there, we move onto the design, in which

content based on what the client needs around

team. We pride ourselves in being innovators

we take on a brief from a client and deliver the

the venue.

of technology, providing full turnkey

perfect solution for the LED displays – and

Finally, we have our maintenance and support,

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TEAM TALK

which is carried out by the same engineers that have installed the system. We have two service level agreement options - Prevent and Unlimited. The former is an annual service with remote support, while the latter offers a callout option, which guarantees an engineer there within 72 hours, or 24 hours with an upgraded package. We also offer match-day operations services, too, which we do at the likes of Glamorgan Cricket Club.

A YEAR OF GROWTH It’s been a full year of trading since the last COVID restrictions eased – and Bendac grew quite significantly during the pandemic, so we targeted 2022 as a year to get more projects off the ground. We’ve really grown our engineering resource as part of this. We’re doing a great job in winning projects, so we really wanted to ensure we have the right level of resources to fulfil those on time and on budget – something that we really pride ourselves on. However, while this was definitely a big year for Bendac, we’re going to be even busier as we head into 2023.

PROJECTS AND PARTNERSHIPS There are lots of different projects going on for the Bendac team. For Bath Rugby, we refreshed some of the existing assets to keep offering that enhanced match-day experience for the fans.

Then, over at Home Park for Plymouth Argyle,

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007

TEAM TALK

we’ve completed a big infrastructure project,

FUTURE PLANS

which involved moving seats to make room for

honesty.

a big LED display.

As mentioned earlier, we’re still doing work at

As is often mentioned, fan experience is the

We also have the digital revamp at Stamford

Stamford Bridge, with the team working right

key to it all. It’s not just a buzzword or passing

Bridge, which is being completed in line with

up until Christmas, so more will be announced

fad – when fans are paying money for a

Chelsea’s plans to deliver more than just a

after the World Cup break as the club take its

ticket, they are entitled to ask what is being

90-minute experience on match days. It’s not

fan experience to the next level.

provided for that cost. Now, with more and

just replacing existing assets, which we did

Another area we’re really excited about is

more America executives moving to UK and

for the club at the back end of 2020 through to

our focus on the perimeter displays. AFC

European clubs, we’re seeing the NFL, NBA and

2021, as the club are now focussing on what can

Wimbledon is our existing perimeter client,

NHL-style influence on the venues. It’s very

be done in the F&B and hospitality areas of the

though we’re now in serious discussions with

much the bigger, brighter and bolder, the better

stadium. They want fans to come earlier than

two more Football League clubs.

in terms of display technology. Beyond that,

just ten minutes before kick-off, so it’s about

As opposed to some of the more traditional

it’s asking what the fan is expecting in terms

providing the experience that makes them want

methods of either having an outright purchase

of information. Is it more detail and statistics

to be there. We’ve provided displays throughout

or having to take on media rights, so the clubs

on players? Can the messaging and visuals

the concourse and hospitality areas, enabling

don’t get the full revenue, we’re proposing a

really impact the atmosphere? This is now all

the club to entertain fans with the early or

solely leased model, in which the clubs can have

being considered – and changing the way LED

late kick-offs, depending on when Chelsea are

it as a monthly expenditure. They maintain

displays are seen as part of that experience.

playing.

100% of the revenue from the advertising –

You just need to watch the World Cup in Qatar

We’ve announced our new, two-year

there is just the cost of the actual perimeter

– you’ve got dugouts covered with LED displays

partnership with Gloucester Rugby, too, with

display from Bendac. That’s what we’ll be

showing graphics, team names, branding

Bendac set to feature on the front of the team’s

looking to launch soon, so watch this space!

and so on. The sport industry is getting really

European shirt. That’s part of a branding campaign as we look to expand our services

creative with it, and Bendac want to be at the

LED AND THE FAN EXPERIENCE

beyond the UK and grow into the Irish and

008

certainly not worth the investment, in all

very forefront of that – delivering the right technology, enhancing the experience for the

French market. We’re doing some great work in

Sport is having to get a lot smarter than just

fans and offering a return on investment for the

the luxury markets in Netherlands and Turkey,

LED screens in stadiums that show the score,

clubs that work with us.

but we want to push the brand even further in

or showing that a goal or try has been scored.

Europe.

If that’s all clubs are using LED for, then it’s

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27 THE FULL PITCH

012 Xcel Energy Center | Minnesota, USA 020 World Gymnastics Championships | Liverpool, England 030 MVM Dome | Budapest, Hungary

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XCEL ENERGY CENTER Minnesota, USA Images: Luke Schmidt

T

he National Hockey League’s Minnesota Wild recently installed a new reinforcement system built around 96 Meyer Sound PANTHER large-format linear line array loudspeakers in their home arena, Xcel Energy

Center in Saint Paul. Supplied by Sound Associates of Yonkers, New York, the world’s largest PANTHER installation to date debuted on November 1 when the Wild defeated the Montreal Canadiens 4–1.

“We are highly impressed by the way our new Meyer Sound system delivers clear and uniform sound distribution to fans throughout the Xcel Energy Center,” said Minnesota Wild President, Matt Majka. “No matter where you are sitting in the arena, the improvement in audio quality is undeniable. Feedback from event attendees has been tremendous. We are extremely pleased with our decision to install a state-of-the-art system to heighten the experience for our fans.”

The new Meyer Sound system replaced an ageing point-source system that was installed when the arena, which has a capacity of around 18,000 for hockey, was first opened in 2000.

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014

“What we had was a low bid system with old technology,”

Bob McCarthy, Director of System Optimisation at Meyer

explained Jim Pfitzinger, the IATSE Local 13 Engineer who

Sound, takes up the story: “Dominic at Sound Associates was

has mixed Wild games since the arena opened and who

asked by the team at Xcel Arena to submit a design proposal,

was a key consultant on the upgrade project. “Top team

so he contacted me to help create a Meyer design.

management had heard systems at newer arenas and noticed

“I was told that the venue wanted a self-powered,

the difference. Our old system was still intelligible and

lightweight system, so that they don’t have amp racks flying

serviceable but it lacked real impact. No matter how hard

in the ceiling, as well as that they also wanted the ability

you flogged it, you could only get so much out of it.”

to fly the system up and out for touring events and down

When funding became available in the spring of 2022,

for service. Another key request was full range coverage for

management asked Pfitzinger to fast-track a new, state-

the whole seating area, along with minimal leakage into the

of-the-art system that would be equal to or better than any

press box level and a separate system for ice coverage for the

other NHL arena. Pfitzinger quickly consulted with Domonic

player warmup.”

Sack of Sound Associates on possible options at a time when

Pfitzinger added: “Dom had just heard Meyer Sound’s

industry supplies were tight. Some makers could not commit

PANTHER demo in Las Vegas and said he was convinced it

to delivering the preferred products on the tight timeline,

was the right solution for this arena. We wanted line arrays

but Meyer Sound was able to fit the Wild project into their

with a small footprint to stay clear of touring rock shows,

production schedule. In only 11 days, the entire system was

plus low power consumption and reduced weight. Powered

wired, hung, and tuned, just in time for the first Minnesota

speakers were high on the list as we had literally tons of

Wild game with the new system.

amplifiers and copper cables in the ceiling and we couldn’t

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You asked for a lighter, more powerful line array.

How about

You know what you want in a line array. And now, we’re giving you more than you ever thought possible. Introducing PANTHER. Over 150 decibels at only 68 kilograms and 97 centimeters wide.

Exactly what you asked for—turned up a notch.

You spoke. We listened. And then we went wild.

016

take them out until the new system was up and running.

space from dual hangs of nine each 1100-LFC low-frequency

Also, everything had to go up and down on the motors. On

control elements in cardioid configurations. The entire

all counts, PANTHER fit the bill — and Meyer Sound could

system is networked for control, monitoring, and audio

deliver!”

signal using the Milan AVB protocol, with redundant analog

Regarding performance, Domonic Sack sketched out the

backup.

goals: “The idea was to minimise reflections, increase

Two other key members of the project team were

intelligibility, extend effective frequency response from 40

Metropolitan Interactive, responsible for the rigging design,

Hz up to 16 kHz, and with headroom to keep the system

under the guidance of Jeff Mele; and Geiger Engineering,

running at 20 percent - maybe 40 percent maximum at peak

responsible for assuring the structural integrity of all

impact.”

rigging points. Members of IATSE Local 13 were charged

Using the MAPP 3D system design and prediction tool, the

with the final rigging and flying of the system.

design particulars were worked out by Sack in consultation

“The response to the new system has been overwhelmingly

with McCarthy and Design Services Supervisor, Alex

positive,” said Pfitzinger. “I now have no problem lifting

Harbaugh. As installed, the system comprises eight hangs

announcer Adam Abrams over the crowd noise when before

of 12 PANTHER loudspeakers, all with the 80-degree L horn.

he was often buried. Now it’s effortless. Nothing ever sounds

Potent bass power is projected uniformly throughout the

pushed or distorted. It has clarity and impact, yet even when

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THE FULL PITCH

the music is up you still can carry on a conversation. And

but the system will be used for dozens of other events

there is an incredible difference in the voice quality and

throughout the year, including high school and collegiate

clarity of the referee microphones.”

sports tournaments, an annual rodeo and skating shows,

McCarthy explained that the install wasn’t without its

plus special events and large-scale meetings associated

issues: “With supply chain challenges, the install was

with conventions in the adjoining convention center.

pushed back a few weeks from the original goal, but

Although the system is not hung effectively for end-stage

otherwise, it was super smooth throughout with everyone

rock conferences, portions of it could function as delays or

working together.

B-stage systems, according to Pfitzinger.

“Overall, the staff are super happy with the new Meyer

The Xcel Energy Center is owned by the City of Saint Paul

system. They are having to remaster all their old

and is operated by the Minnesota Wild under a long-term

tracks – because now they can hear them super clearly!

lease agreement. Xcel Energy Center is part of an expansive

Announcements are super clear and the press folks are happy

campus of event, entertainment, and meeting venues that

about the reduced leakage up there. The players also love the

also includes Saint Paul RiverCentre convention facility and

ice coverage, too. So, it’s been a huge success all round.”

The Legendary Roy Wilkins Auditorium.

The fan experience in Wild games was the overriding consideration in specifying a PANTHER line array solution,

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017

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THE FULL PITCH

WORLD GYMNASTIC CHAMPIONSHIPS 2022 Liverpool, England Images: Harry Elliott

A

fter nine action-packed days of competition, The World Gymnastics Championships Liverpool 2022 drew to a close with FIG President, Morinari Watanabe, hailing the 51st Championships as an event that ‘turned gymnastics from sports to entertainment’, and ‘the start of the new gymnastics scene’ In his final address.

Event technology specialists ADI were pivotal to this transformation, working closely with the Organising Committee to design and deliver innovative presentation solutions, dazzling LED displays, vibrant content and interactive elements across the Arena, Fan Zone and Athlete’s After Party.

On the floor, the level of competition also reached new heights, with Great Britain’s men’s and women’s teams claiming an impressive six medals between them and, in turn, surpassing their best-ever World’s medal haul.

ADI worked collaboratively with a variety of stakeholders – World Gymnastics, British Gymnastics and Liverpool City Council - to deliver an event that that will be talked about for many years to come.

Spectacular Opening Ceremonies ADI, who delivered the Festival Sites to the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games earlier this year, were chosen to be the Championship’s Official Event Presentation Provider. The Preston-based company were tasked with managing the full production of the opening and daily ceremonies, from concept through to delivery.

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Creative discussions commenced long before the event took

which utilises ultrasonic audio triggers.

place, with ADI’s Sports Presentation team collaborating

When the lights were lowered and the music played, the

with Terri Lynam, Creative Director of World Gymnastics

torches on the audiences’ smartphones flashed synchronously

Championships, to agree on an achievable but highly

with the beat of the music, which meant that the devices could

ambitious brief.

be held aloft inside the 11-000 capacity venue to create a truly

The focus was for Merseyside’s cultural elements to be

spectacular in-bowl atmosphere.

blended into each of the ceremonies to celebrate the vibrancy

Lynam was delighted with the final product. Reflecting on the

of its people and generate atmosphere inside the arena.

ceremonies, she said: “ADI’s vast experience in delivering

Interactivity and audience involvement was another goal.

spectacular sports presentation, technical infrastructure and

With all of that knowledge ADI conceptualised solutions that

ceremonies all came together to create an unforgettable show

would bring the brief to life.

for spectators and augmented the live competition taking

“Our ambition was to create an unforgettable experience for

place.

spectators by combining the sporting elements with engaging

“Together we turned the sport of gymnastics into

digital activations and creative performances across the

entertainment and showcased the dynamism of the athletes in

Liverpool ACC site,” Lynam said.

a completely unique way, bringing the fans closer to the action

Having established an understanding of what the federation

and immersing them in the show with the likes of QGlo – the

was trying to achieve, ADI’s in-house Studios team began

inclusive and collaborative delivery is something I am very

creating content, while ADI’s Sports Presentation Manager

proud of.”

Richard Hale storyboarded the ceremony performances.

022

ADI decided to weave Liverpool’s flourishing music scene

Transforming the Venue

into each of the ceremonies, with up-and-coming Liverpool-

Hailed as the event that changed the landscape of World

based singer Pixey kicking off the Championships in style.

Gymnastics competitions, ADI’s experienced production

Her energetic performance, combined with the vibrant LED

team brought new concepts to the arena during the busy

displays and creative content around her, lit up the M&S Bank

competition schedule.

Arena and set the tone for the rest of the event.

Stuart Campbell, COO, World Gymnastics Championships

As part of the daily pre-competition shows and in the build-up

Liverpool 2022, was determined to add innovation and

to the gymnasts entering the floor, ADI delivered synchronised

creativity into this year’s competition, and believed a digital

light shows through the official WGC2022 Live app, which

revamp of the venue would provide that.

over 70,000 people engaged with over the nine days. ADI

“We set the ambitious target to be the best ever World

had customised their QGlo smartphone feature for the event,

Gymnastics Championships by focusing on key delivery areas

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across all client groups with an emphasis on athlete and spectator experience,” Campbell said.

“Focusing on innovation and creativity, we have proudly set a new bar for future editions of this Olympic qualifying world championships.

Utilising the breadth of in-bowl showpiece LED platforms, on-site producers, camera operators and live screen mixers delivered live feeds, competition standings, official timings, event information and educational content – and incorporated the world’s first delivery of British Sign Language on screen for the duration of a sports competition.

A spectacular LED athlete’s entrance, digital signage on the judges’ tribunes and an additional super wide display broadcast carefully coordinated content that inspired and informed the audience, while helping transform the look and feel of the arena.

The LED and content provision were combined with engaging presenters to create a high-octane live spectator experience, and encourage crowd participation at key points in the competition schedule.

Campbell lauded ADI’s contribution to the in-bowl transformation.

“We chose to work with ADI due to their strong reputation in delivering creative event elements across the sport industry and beyond,” he said, “as well as aligning with our sustainability commitments being located within 90mins of the competition venue.

“ADI gave us instant access to a team of specialists, who understood our ambitious visions and worked collaboratively with our team to innovate and enable us to deliver world-class standards.

“Their use of LED technologies, vibrant content and live acts transformed the look and feel of the M&S Bank Arena, and set the tone for what was an incredible nine days of international Gymnastics, but also a unique entertainment experience.”

Interactive Fan Zone ADI activated a number of bespoke interactive experiences inside the official Fan Zone for visitors to engage with. Across nine days, it received more than 18,500 visits with over 2,500 people experiencing the interactive digital wall.

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THE FULL PITCH

Hosted inside the Liverpool Exhibition Centre, adjacent to the M&S Bank Arena, it offered a space for collective celebration.

World Gymnastics Championships Ambassador and former gymnast Beth Tweddle MBE said: “The Fan Zone in particular was incredible to be a part of, there was so much for kids to get involved in.

“For children who have never done gymnastics, it was an opportunity for them to have a go and wherever they live around the country, they can go home and find their local club.”

Positioned at the entrance point of the Fan Zone, ADI’s LED wall gave visitors the chance to pose for photos alongside popular GB gymnasts Joe Fraser and Alice Kinsella, in front of an animated flag of their home nation, or even dance to the sounds of LIMF musicians - all of which fans could select from an iPad. Aside from providing the hardware and connectivity, ADI also delivered full concept design and content production, with their Studio’s team filming and editing the athletes and musicians.

A digital podium was also a popular spot for pictures, and multiplayer

“The vision was to make the vistor’s journey to the 2022 World Gymnastic Championships world class. We wanted the city’s culture to form the basis of the event experience, both inside and outside of the venue, and ADI were the key to achieving that.”

mobile gaming, delivered in partnership with video game experts Piing, was available for some light-hearted competition. The innovative gaming solution has been purposely built to allow a stadium-sized crowd to participate and play a shared game at the same time on their smartphones, without the need to download an app.

For Tom Taylor, ADI’s Head of Sales, creating immersive and interactive

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Jen Falding, Strategic Lead Sports Events, Liverpool City Council

THE FULL PITCH

experiences for everybody to enjoy - not just the avid

most exciting up-and-coming musicians.

gymnastics fan - was a huge part of the delivery.

“ADI also made the Fan Zone uniquely digital and immersive,

“The bespoke content we created and delivered across the

deploying lots of interactive applications for visitors of all ages

different canvases was innovative, but also educational. We

and nationalities to engage with.”

knew that not everybody attending the Fan Zone would have lots of knowledge about gymnastics and for a large percentage

A Sport-Changing Event

it would probably be their first experience of a live gymnastics

The monumental success of this year’s event marks the

event, so the space had to be built for all types of visitors. We

beginning of a new era for World Gymnastics – one where the

wanted spectators to leave having had a brilliant experience,

spectator is placed at the heart of the occasion.

but also knowing more about the sport.”

For ADI, the end goal was always to deliver creative solutions that would transform the look and feel of the ACC Liverpool

Journey to the Venue

complex.

In the modern day, spectators hold an expectation to be

The key to achieving this was being in constant dialogue with

entertained from the moment they arrive at the venue to the

the client and key stakeholders leading up to the event. By

moment they leave, and therefore fan activation solutions

working with all parties many months in advance, it enabled

have become a fundamental part of any elite sporting event. It

ADI’s multidisciplinary team to have creative input.

was something that Jen Falding, Strategic Lead Sports Events

The end product speaks for itself. Vibrant LED displays,

at Liverpool City Council, was keen to get across in the early

creative content, dazzling ceremonies and bespoke audience

discussions.

involvement solutions came together to create something

“The vision was to make the visitor’s journey to the 2022

special.

World Gymnastics Championships world class, “ Falding

For ADI’s Richard Hale, who led on the sports presentation

explained. “We wanted the city’s culture to form the basis of

elements, it was the perfect project for ADI to showcase

the event experience, both inside and outside of the venue,

themselves.

and ADI were the key to achieving that.”

“Being able to manage the full production of the ceremonies,

With that in mind, ADI deployed a number of digital

content and LED screens, we were able to put our own stamp

applications outside of the venue. Floor art and digital LED

on the event. That is so important for us as creatives,” he

totems featuring Liverpool’s best up-and-coming musicians

explained.

were in place to create a warm welcome for ticketholders on

“It makes a huge difference when we are involved at the

arrival, and further celebrate the region’s diverse range of

event conception stage because we can bring our engineers,

talent.

technicians, project managers and producers into the

Mobile LED screens from ADI’s iCONIC fleet were also in

conversation.

position across the ACC Liverpool complex, where they

“It’s not often that we get handed that level of creative

broadcast sponsor videos, event branding and other colourful,

freedom, but when we do, the results are really impressive.

engaging content.

“It was rewarding to see all of our concepts and ideas being

Falding added: “Their digital platforms and custom screens

enjoyed by so many people inside the arena and at home. The

created unique spectator experiences and showcased our long,

feedback has been extremely positive and it proves that we

proud musical history perfectly by working with our city’s

have the power to deliver massive sport-changing events.”

COMPANY: ADI | WEBSITE: adi.tv

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MVM DOME Budapest, Hungary Images: Outline, BE LIGHT!, AVL Trade, Louise Strickland

THE FULL PITCH

OUTLINE he MVM Dome is one of the largest multifunction venues in Europe and Europe’s largest handball arena. With a seating capacity of over 20,000, it was designed by famous Hungarian architect Mr. György Skardelli, built by Market PLC and handed over at the end of 2021, just in time to host the 2022 European Men’s Handball Championships.

As reported on the arena’s official website, the facility boasts innovative spaces and versatility in layout arrangement as well as unique architectural features.

Hungary’s largest and most modern multifunctional event hall is suitable for large-scale concerts, shows, family entertainment, corporate events and exhibitions thanks to its special building management solutions, cutting edge sound, lighting and visual technology.

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The brief received by audio contractor Budapest-based ZAJ Systemhouse Ltd was to ensure extremely high intelligibility, 106 dB SPL and even coverage throughout the venue, including the seating and playing field areas.

The stadium’s rig comprised a total of 48 Outline Stadia enclosures (twelve ‘100-10’, twenty-six ‘100-20’ and ten ‘10030’), sixteen STSUB 215 subwoofers and a GTA (Grand Touring Amplifier) powerhouse.

Tamás Fazekas, ZAJ CEO and Founder, stated: “We proposed the [Outline] Stadia rig as one of the world’s highest quality sound systems specifically engineered for stadium sound, therefore the most suitable for this project, and the company’s reputation was sufficient to ensure its acceptance without any real competition.”

Two years passed from when the first design was drawn up to the definitive version and, during that period, the client’s

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requirements evolved and expanded, resulting in one of the most versatile multifunction venues, as well as one of the most modern.

However, thanks to the Stadia system’s flexibility and efficiency (although each cabinet appears to be a point source at first glance, in fact it is an array combining four of Outline’s famous road-proven Mantas modules in a single unit with Outline’s patented D.P.R.W.G. waveguides), expectations in terms of system performance were exceeded in spite of the change in the set-up’s format. This was also achieved thanks to Stadia’s very long throw and exceptional directional control.

As on many other prestige projects, Outline’s powerful OpenArray 3D software ensured a high-precision preview of the acoustic results that were effectively obtained once the rig was in place.

Fazekas enthused: “The system was very well-accepted and is working fine. We are very happy and satisfied with the sound 034

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quality and measured parameters which are truly excellent, and this project once again confirmed our belief in the supremacy of Outline audio products.

“This is a very high prestige project, as the Outline system amplifies one of Europe’s largest and most modern arenas, so this reference opens the door for such large-scale projects with Outline as the manufacturer and Zaj, as designer and integrator worldwide.” As well as a venue for a wide array of indoor sporting events, the hall can also be configured to host concerts, conferences, exhibitions and trade shows, making it an important part of Budapest’s entertainment offering.

PHAROS The building’s façade is inspired by the anatomical drawings of Michelangelo; designed to conjure up images of skeletal muscles.

This striking look is enhanced at night with the clever use of dynamically changing, specially created lighting.

The vibrant, flowing lines of light swirl across the entire façade, dividing the surface of the building into a variety of planes, slices and shapes. These geometric fragments then serve as windows in certain positions, while the steel cladding, which is powdercoated in two shades of grey, plays a key role in the optical resolution of the building mass.

The lighting and control system has been designed, supplied and programmed by BE LIGHT! The system is unusual in its approach; with the lighting fixtures hidden in the façade’s mantle to strengthen the architectural character of the arena.

BE LIGHT! were brought into the project by architects Közti Zrt, along with interior design house MCXVI Építészműterem Kft, and electrical engineers Hungaroproject Mérnökiroda Kft. BE LIGHT! chose solutions from Pharos Architectural Control to deliver dynamic control of the lighting scheme.

BE LIGHT! required a DMX protocol communication system for the RGBW fixtures, assigning 11,328 digital addresses to the 036

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façade alone so the luminaires could be controlled individually.

They designed a distributed control solution using multiple Pharos Designer LPCs (Lighting Playback Controllers). The compact LPCs are positioned within the façade to provide local DMX to the fixtures, and networked together to still act as one seamless, cohesive control system. A total of twenty-one LPC 1 and fifteen LPC 2 were required for the façade, and a further six networked LPC 1 were distributed inside the Dome to control the lighting in the arena and public areas. The LPC is the perfect choice for this type of installation, providing a flexible and reliable control system and allowing dynamic, precise and fully customisable pre-programmed lighting to be created.

Additionally, two Pharos Designer TPS (Touch Panel Screen) units were installed so staff could override scheduled programming and directly select both the decorative lighting and the sports lighting looks at the MVM Dome. The TPS offers a customisable touch screen user interface that lets users create multiple pages of lighting controls for the Pharos Designer system. Ádám Kis, Head of Control System from BE LIGHT!, said: “The architecture of the MVM Dome is truly stunning, and we were delighted to be appointed to deliver the lighting scheme to

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accentuate this. By using innovative control solutions from Pharos, we have given the venue a flexible and dynamic lighting system that can easily be adapted to suit the differing needs of the arena.”

Mark de Gruyter, Regional Sales Manager for EMEA at Pharos Architectural Controls, commented: “The MVM Dome is a very impressive venue, attracting global talent across sport, entertainment and music. It is very rewarding to see Pharos solutions playing a key role in the success of their events, ensuring the arena can deliver fantastic results for the thousands of visitors attending each year.”

The adjustable sports lighting is suitable for HDTV broadcasts of high-level world competitions, as well as super slow-motion recordings thanks to the flicker-free technology. The lighting system also plays an integral role in the successful staging of events and concerts, as it controls the auditorium colour 038

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temperature as well as delivering dynamic lighting.

When used for a show, dynamic effects such as flashing or running light can be presented based on a pre-written programme. This also means the hall can change its function through the lighting control system, which is something of a unique solution in European venues.

Since its official opening, the MVM Dome has a full line-up planned, featuring sporting events and concerts from music legends such as Tom Jones and Michael Bublé.

MVM Dome Budapest, Hungary Image: © BE LIGHT!

Arena Națională Bucharest, Romania Image: © Power Electric SRL

BC Place Vancouver, Canada

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DESIGNER

CLOUD

THE FULL PITCH

ROBE A substantial Robe moving light rig – over 350 fixtures – was specified for the MVM Dome.

The Robe lights were specified by Visual Europe Group (VEG), the building’s technical management and services specialists, working in close consultation with Budapest-based AVL Trade which supplied the fixtures. The first event staged in the spectacular looking venue was the 2022 European Men’s Handball Championship Final, won by Sweden.

Most of the Robe luminaires – including 64 FORTES, 64 Tarrantulas, 64 MegaPointes, 120 Tetra2 moving LED battens and four FORTE FollowSpots together with four RoboSpot remote follow systems – will be in use in the main arena space. They were used to great effect by lighting designer, Attila Lenzser, for 040

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the Opening and Closing ceremonies of the Men’s EHF Euro 2022 final.

Adam Nagy, Project Manager for AVL Trade, explained that the package also included 32 Robe LEDBeam 350s and 16 Robe ProMotion moving projectors which are destined for use in other parts of the building, like the extensive foyer spaces, conference suites and VIP lounges.

VEG approached AVL Trade already knowing that they wanted to use Robe for the show lighting elements following excellent experiences with BMFLs and other Robe products on numerous events including the acclaimed 2017 FINA Aquatics World Championships which were staged in the Hungarian capital.

Due to the high trim height of the trussing mothergrid in the

OUR

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THE FULL PITCH MVM Dome’s roof, they needed the most powerful fixtures available, and chose FORTES, Robe’s massively bright, new gen LED TE technology luminaire, launched last year for stadium and large venue / event applications.

Unique to Robe, the TE (TRANSFERABLE ENGINE) is a powerful, intelligent, and eco-friendly lighting solution enabling different engines – high powered, high CRI, ‘tungsten’ etc., – to be used in the same fixtures. The engines can be changed quickly and easily in five to seven minutes.

The MVM Dome lighting spec featured as much LED as possible for all the obvious reasons including to be as sustainable as possible and to minimise running costs, but an exception was made for MegaPointes, arguably the most popular multipurpose effects moving light worldwide.

“MegaPointes were an absolute ‘must have’,” explained Adam. “They were a non-negotiable part of the spec!”

The show rig is designed to be movable and adaptable within the arena, with enough dynamic units for all incoming concerts / music shows and other performance productions, so they can use the house rig as often as possible.

The lights were all delivered at the end of 2021 and installed ready for action at the Men’s Handball Championship in January.

Challenges included “meeting all the deadlines and working within pandemic rules and regulations,” commented Adam, adding that the timing of the decision to add a complete show lighting rig for the venue made the schedule super-tight. “We booked the fixtures immediately after we received the confirmation and collaborated closely with VEG and Robe’s sales and technical teams – who were amazing – to make it happen,” elucidated Adam.

Visual Europe Group has over 20 years’ experience in technical design and implementation of AV for high-volume and high-profile events.

Their CEO, Szabolcs Botond, commented: “To implement the lighting technology for the European Handball Championship 2022, our company found these Robes to be the best for our customer, and in cooperation with AVL Trade, we were able to provide the MVM Arena with a futureproof lighting solution and equipment.

“The successful European Handball Championship hugely satisfied everyone involved which proved we made the right choice and provided the best solution for our customer’s needs.”

Attila was delighted to be the first person to light a show in the new venue and use all the new Robe lights, having been asked onboard for the Opening and Closing Ceremonies after working with the organisers on several other events including those FINA opening and closing shows.

The FORTES proved fantastic for gobo’ing the entire arena floor and as the main lights; the Tarrantulas washed the audience areas plus the main arena, while the MegaPointes and Tetra2s were installed on the top trusses all around the ceiling of the arena, following its oval-shaped space. For the Opening Ceremony, some of Tetra2s were also used around the floor.

The biggest lighting challenge for both OC and CC events was the compressed timeframe available for the creative teams to work their magic, as all their rigging, programming, blocking, and rehearsing had to dovetail with games and the regular team practices as well as the protocol rehearsals, related to both covid and working in a brand-new venue!

However, the results – broadcast live – were eye catching and spectacular, helping to ramp up the excitement and anticipation.

Attila has used Robe products in his work for many years, but this was the first time he had used FORTES. “It is a great fixture in every aspect – fast and strong – and I totally enjoyed working with them. I think I have a new favourite!”

Robe’s CEO Josef Valchar concluded: “It is fantastic to see a project specification like this come to fruition so quickly and positively in spite of all the challenges. We are extremely proud to have a Robe house rig in this very prestigious and beautifully designed new venue, and look forward to seeing many lighting professionals enjoy using some of our latest technologies for a busy schedule of spectacular concerts and sporting events.”

ARCHITECT: KÖZTI Architects | BRANDS: Outline, Pharos, Robe | AUDIO CONTRACTOR: ZAJ Systemhouse Ltd | TECHNICAL MANAGEMENT & SERVICES: Visual Europe Group | LIGHTING DISTRIBUTOR: AVL Trade | LIGHTING & CONTROL DESIGN, SUPPLY & PROGRAMMING: BE LIGHT! | INTERIOR DESIGN: MCXVI Építészmuterem | ELECTRICAL ENGINEERS: Hungaroproject Mérnökiroda 042

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3/30/2022 4:21:38 PM

27 VENUE FOCUS

AUDIO 046 Spartan Stadium | Michigan, USA 050 Memorial Stadium | Clemson, USA

VIDEO 054 Santiago Bernabéu Stadium | Madrid, Spain

ARCHITECTURE 058 Nationals Park | Washington, D.C., USA

AUDIO

SPARTAN STADIUM Michigan, USA Images: Fulcrum Acoustic

S

partan Stadium, home to the Michigan State Spartans, was constructed in 1923 at a cost of $160,000 – equivalent to over $2.5 million today – with a seating

capacity of just 14,000.

Michigan State University occasionally leases the venue for concerts and sporting events, including a hockey game between Michigan State and Michigan that held a world record for the largest ice hockey crowd in history.

Since its opening, the stadium, nicknamed ‘The Woodshed’, has undergone significant upgrades, including changes to the playing surface, modern video scoreboards, stadium-wide lighting, and an increase to a total capacity of 75,000.

Spartan Stadium has recently been revamped once more, with the audio system being the focus as part of a $4.1 million capital improvement plan by the university to adapt to changing code requirements and maintain a first-rate experience for fans.

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Washington Professional Systems (WPS), a national

profile of the stadium, too. The east/west clusters also had to

audiovisual technology integrator, was enlisted to complete a

cover from 10ft above field level to 113ft, which is the top of

series of large-scale audio system enhancements at Michigan

upper deck.”

State University’s venue.

The AHS series was the perfect match for Spartan Stadium,

WPS was selected by Michigan State to demolish the aging

as it’s specifically targeted at applications where very high

audio system, as well as engineer, programme, and integrate

output and precise pattern control are required. The AHS’

a new, distributed audio system. The audio system, designed

configurable vertical pattern allows dispersion to be tailored

by Jack Covert’s team at Anthony James Partners, provides

to a venue’s needs. Its modularity allows it to scale as

coverage for the bowl seating and concourse areas of the

needed to tackle very long-throw applications, such as those

stadium and includes a series of Fulcrum Acoustic AHS

encountered in stadium end-zone/scoreboard deployments.

steerable arrays, US221 subwoofers, and AH65 coaxial horn

Additionally, its compact size allows the AHS to be integrated

loudspeakers powered by amplifiers from Powersoft and QSC.

into congested scoreboard structures.

Signal processing is handled by QSC Q-SYS Core 110F and

The AHS440 (45° horizontal beamwidth) utilises four high-

Core 8 Flex DSPs with touch panel integration for system

frequency horns, each paired with a coaxial compression

control and monitoring. The “head end” system is connected

driver. The AHS460 (60° horizontal beamwidth) uses three

via a Dante network and allows for interoperability between

high-frequency horns. Both models incorporate four high-

equipment with near zero latency.

power 10” woofers loaded by Oculus phase plugs. The

Rich Frembes, Senior Technologist at Fulcrum Acoustic, takes

Compression Head extends the low frequency horn length,

up the story: “The existing system had reached the end of its

allowing for low frequency extension to 60 Hz in a modest 28”

anticipated service life and the venue were looking for some

of depth. Frontal dimensions are a compact 36” wide x 31”

new audio technology.

tall.

“Anthony James Partners made visits to the Fulcrum factory

Fulcrum Acoustic’s TQ processing combined with beam-

to discuss the new stadium steerable system. From there, they

forming DSP algorithms configure AHS vertical dispersion

had enough confidence in the experience and creative forces,

to match a venue’s specific geometries and throw distances.

and could see what our capabilities were. We were the only

Multiple HF horns combine coherently to provide the output

ones with the product that can do exactly what we were saying

necessary to combat HF air loss, which can be substantial in

it could do.”

stadium-scale applications.

Discussing the project at Spartan Stadium, Rich furthered:

“The ability to shape the coverage of the system and match

“A lot of speakers had to go into a two existing scoreboards

the seating areas of the stadium resulted in a remarkably

that had very limited space to work with. The scoreboard is

consistent coverage,” Rich added. “One of the things we would

divided up into four or five levels inside, and we only had

do for the demonstration is to start at the far end zone and just

approximately two-and-a-half metres in height to work with,

have people walk all the way up to listen to some music – and

so we had to pack a lot of horsepower into that limited height

you just wouldn’t perceive a change in level like you’d expect.”

profile.

Jack Covert, Senior Design Engineer for Anthony James

“It’s 750ft from the south scoreboards, where the AHS

Partners, stated that the new audio system at Michigan State’s

loudspeakers are installed, to the far north end zone seats, so

Spartan Stadium is “one of the best sounding systems in all of

a long throw was needed. Plus, we had to match the seating

college football.”

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AUDIO

Keith Neubert, Executive Director of WPS, was in full

this evolution.”

agreement: “The system clarity, even at the highest outputs,

WPS also replaced the entire audio cabling with all-new fiber

is currently unmatched and we’ve been able to eliminate

optic cabling infrastructure and installed an ancillary analog

any hint of feedback from the input sources. Our team and

audio system that interfaces with the existing fire alarm

partners have delivered a first-class audio experience that fans

system for egress announcements during emergencies. The

will enjoy for many years.

main audio system is designed to mute entirely during an

“The demands of athletic departments to increase attendance

emergency and immediately switch to the ancillary system for

and maintain high levels of fan engagement are greater than

emergency broadcasts.

ever. The expectations for excellent audio and video lead the

WPS tested, tuned, and commissioned the newly-integrated

charge in enticing fans to return to in-person events on the

Fulcrum Acoustic system ahead of Michigan State’s first

tail of the COVID-19 pandemic.

home game of 2022 at Spartan Stadium against the Western

“Michigan State has made significant investments in recent

Michigan University Broncos on September 2nd, which the

years to bolster the fan experience through audio-video

Spartans won 35-13.

technology and Spartan Stadium is clearly on the forefront of

INSTALLER: Washington Professional Systems | CONSULTANT: Anthony James Partners | BRANDS: Fulcrum Acoustic, Powersoft, QSC WWW.MONDOSTADIA.COM

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AUDIO

MEMORIAL STADIUM Clemson, USA Images: Adamson Systems Engineering

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ith a capacity of 82,500, Clemson’s Memorial Stadium required a weatherproof audio system that delivered high performance and intelligibility throughout the venue.

That was at the top of the mind when it came to the choice of Adamson Systems Engineering’s E-Series and Point Series loudspeakers for the project by Anthony

James Partners (AJP), who designed the sound system and a new centrehung scoreboard into which the very first custom, weatherproof Adamson E15s loudspeakers are incorporated.

With a broad range of loudspeakers, including a dedicated install line, and a track record for creating products that stand up to the rigors of touring, Adamson were the perfect choice, according to Jack Covert, Director, Audio & AV Design Engineering for AJP: “I think Adamson is coming on very strong on the install market.”

Home to the Clemson Tigers football team, Memorial Stadium, popularly known as ‘Death Valley’, has undergone numerous expansions since it was constructed in the early 1940s. The most recent of which - Phase 1 of the EastZone project - began in 2020.

“They’re a football dynasty,” explained Stephen Morris, President of C.V. Lloyde Audiovisual, the integrators on the project, adding that the system had to be capable of not only reaching the expected SPL, “but also having the headroom to get over crowd noise.”

“We knew coming in we had to throw over 750 feet to the other end of the stadium and that it was going to take big audio to do that,” Covert noted. “Knowing Adamson has a history of

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AUDIO

touring behind them and is well known for covering large

Systems who had a pre-existing relationship with Clemson.

venues and stadiums, I started looking at them for this

It was a challenging proposition, Morris furthered: “We had

project.”

to rig, test, and aim each array of E15s and the E219 subs in

In all, the system consists of 32 Adamson E15s, 16 E219 subs,

stages. So you’ve got one shot, and you’re working on a tight

and 4 Point 15s as fill speakers, all driven by Lab.gruppen

timeframe. I’m very proud of the whole team for staying

amplifiers (24 D200s and 2 D80s).

on the clock and getting the work done while meeting the

Given the placement of the Adamson rig, weatherproofing

performance needs of the system.”

was critical. “The loudspeakers are flanking the scoreboard

“I’ve known some people at Adamson for a long time,” said

on the left and right,” Morris explained. “There’s speaker

Covert. “People I’ve worked with on other projects with other

mesh and cladding, but they’re out in the elements. It’s

products. I chatted to them early on about this, and that’s

South Carolina, so they’re not going to see too terrible a

where I arrived at using Adamson’s E15s for Clemson. They

winter, but they will get rained on.”

were able to produce the amount of power we needed to get

“We had to put environmental equipment racks in the

the audio the length of the stadium as well as the high-

scoreboard to house the amp racks, but we also had to make

quality audio that you get from Adamson. I’m extremely

sure the loudspeaker devices were capable of withstanding

happy with the performance of Adamson and will use it

the weather,” Covert added.

without question as long as the product suits the project.”

Beyond Adamson’s ability to provide a custom solution to

Morris and C.V. Lloyde also have a lengthy history with

ensure that was the case, the degree of care they took in

Adamson and a high degree of respect for the company and

doing so was impressive.

its products. While it was AJP’s choice to use Adamson, he

Covert continued: “One of the things Adamson does that’s

maintains that the suite of loudspeakers deployed was an

a bit unique is weatherproofing inside and out. They don’t

excellent choice for Clemson.

just put a coating on the outside like some manufacturers

“Again, we’re throwing over 700 feet. At the end of that

do. They actually get inside and make sure the cones and the

throw and at different distances within that throw, you

hardware are treated appropriately to withstand weather.

can really hear the musicality as well as the intelligibility

Adamson did a great job with that. They understand the

of the system. There were no compromises. The Adamson

importance of it, and I think that comes from their touring

loudspeakers didn’t break down in any of the bands at the

experience; from getting out and seeing how well their

levels required to reach the end of the bowl. The uniformity

products take a beating.”

of SPL and sonic performance in every band was very

C.V. Lloyde has done a variety of projects with AJP in recent

impressive. I can say, when you talk about this size of

years. When it came to the installation, they partnered with

the room, Clemson is the best sounding NCAA stadium in

local AV integration company South Carolina-based Musicraft

Division 1, bar none.”

MANUFACTURER: Adamson Systems Engineering | DESIGNER: Anthony James Partners | INTEGRATOR: C.V Lloyde Audiovisual

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DIVE IN ADAMSON FLETCHER MACHINE

The Adamson Fletcher Machine is an audio rendering processor offering incredibly simple operation with highly efficient spatialization tools, with hardware models offering 32, 64, or 128 inputs and outputs. To learn more about the Adamson Fletcher Machine visit our website at www.adamsonsystems.com Don’t miss us at: ISE 2023 | Jan 31 - Feb 3 Booth 7F200

VIDEO

SANTIAGO BERNABÉU STADIUM Madrid, Spain Renderings: Daktronics

W

hen fans head to the home of one of the most valuable sports teams in the world, Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid, Spain, they will witness a new match-day experience beginning in

2023. It won’t just be Real Madrid FC on the pitch or the shared cheers for the team. It will be the new video displays in a halo formation above the pitch that will be supplementing the event and building the atmosphere that is so important to the live action.

Sitting or standing in their seats, the Real Madrid faithful will have more than 3,700 square meters of LED video displays to please their eyes. The rectangular shape of the halo mimics the shape of the field below. The display is mounted along the inside of the structure and angled down toward the seating areas. On the outside of the halo, 10 additional displays will face outward to ensure every fan in every seat receives the same amazing visual match-day experience.

“Thanks to this agreement with Daktronics, the new Santiago Bernabéu Stadium will have iconic advertising devices with the highest quality and technology available that will allow us to offer a unique experience to our fans and visitors through the contents,” said Enrique Uriel, Real Madrid CF IT Director.

This feat is not completed without proper planning, including years of preparation from the initial decision to upgrade the stadium, the concept and design imagined, the feasibility determined and engineered, and finally the manufacturing and installation of the LED technology. Discussions began back in 2016 as the teams involved in the project began looking over concepts and possibilities for the future.

The research and planning included key team members traveling to multiple other world-renowned stadiums to analyze what

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VIDEO

each stadium’s technology delivered to the overall experience,

pixel layouts to deliver excellent image clarity and contrast to

how it helped create a unique atmosphere for their sports

audiences in every seat.

teams and fans, and to receive a first-hand look at the

The 13HD displays are capable of variable content zoning which

technology. Ultimately, the halo configuration was selected for

allows each to show one large image or to show multiple zones

the new visual centerpiece of the stadium.

of content. This content can include live video, instant replays,

“In the process of deciding what design to implement, many

up-to-the-minute statistics, graphics and animations, and

iterations and ideas were considered and vetted, analyzing

sponsorship messages.

different existing projects, before moving forward with a

While the halo will be the centerpiece of the visual presentation

360-degree halo,” said Ivan del Rio, Daktronics Regional

at the stadium, a ribbon display will also be mounted to the

Manager. “With this LED display configuration, the Santiago

seating fascia as part of this project. It will feature a 13HD

Bernabéu Stadium will be at the forefront of technology and at

pixel layout and measure between 0.74 and 1.10 meters high

the same level as the best stadiums in the world. These video

by 491.47 meters long. This display can show supplemental

screens will serve Real Madrid CF to offer unique experiences

information and graphics to the halo while also providing the

both in its football competitions and in the other multiple uses

opportunity to highlight sponsors throughout events.

of the stadium in the future.”

Between the halo and the ribbon display, fans will be

The halo configuration consists of two sideline displays, two

surrounded in digital content that will create a desirable

goal end displays and four corner displays, all on the inside

match-day atmosphere that can only be experienced by being

of the structure. The two displays along the inner sideline of

inside the stadium.

the halo will each measure 6.58 meters high by 114.12 meters

Beyond the main football sporting events, the stadium will

long while the two inner goal end displays each measure 10.97

leverage these digital displays to enhance the experience at

meters high in the center of the display by 52.69 meters wide.

special events and other functions that bring people together

The inside corners of the halo will each feature a freeform

in Madrid. They can brand the stadium for additional sports,

ProPixel stick display to curve the corner and deliver an

corporate events and more by switching content at a moment’s

uninterrupted continuous view of digital content. Each corner

notice to deliver the desired messaging as needed.

display will measure 6.60 meters high by 16.53 meters wide

As fans and audiences arrive earlier and stay later at live

and curve around the inner corners of the halo.

events, digital signage and technology such as this being

The inside corner displays will feature 25-millimeter pixel

featured at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium will keep them engaged

spacing and all the other displays on the halo will feature 13HD

and entertained through every minute of the event.

BRAND: Daktronics | WEBSITE: daktronics.com

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Tottenham Hotspur Athletic Co Ltd - Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

Excitement EXPERIENCE THE

Austin FC - Q2 Stadium

Daktronics displays are engineered for industry-leading visual and operational performance. Our product features top-quality, high-brightness LED technology to deliver exceptional color depth, contrast level and viewing angles driven by Daktronics proprietary processing to optimize image detail, colors and motion clarity.

Accor Stadium

Columbus Crew - Lower.com Field

FC Cincinnati - TQL Stadium

To learn more, visit us at Daktronics.com/Sports

ARCHITECTURE

NATIONALS PARK Washington, D.C., USA

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ward-winning Interior Design and Architecture studio, SHH, collaborated with OPX in delivering a game-stopping redesign of the Club Level at Washington D.C.’s Nationals Park, home to

the Washington Nationals baseball team. The stadium first opened in March 2008, in Navy Yard, an area that has become

Images: SHH

the fastest-growing neighbourhood in the city, south of the United States Capitol and along the riverfront.

The club space refurbishment encompasses the entry and lift lobby area, lounges and several catering facilities within the space. The design brief was to upgrade the club’s interior by making it more inviting and interactive and also for supporters to feel more engaged. To that extent, a new dedicated space for celebrating the team’s awards and achievements was designed

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with glass display cases, highlighting the team’s memorabilia,

lounge lacked the necessary ambience and mood setting to

as well as a prominent display case to host the World Series

satisfy the requirements of both day and evening events. The

Trophy, which the team won in late 2019.

design team upgraded the current window façade, which

Natural materials have been selected for the entrance and

runs along the perimeter of the stadium, with a series of new

lift lobby area, oak timber slats dress the corridor walls and

monitors, keeping fans visually engaged with the action of

ceilings while rich and warm tones have been applied to add

the game. Giant circular pendant lights were also carefully

warmth by creating associations to the team’s distinct red

positioned to drop elegantly against the, adding sophistication.

colour code

SHH also designed series of enhancements to the Nationals

The same lounge area is also used throughout the year to host

food and drink outlets within the lounge areas, which included

a number of non-game day events such as conferences, balls

the offers of bar, pizza, the grill and grab and go. SHH worked

and banquettes, so the design requirement was for it to remain

closely with the F&B team in-house to improve the food offers

flexible and to transition easily between different types of

by increasing the back of house areas, fast serve counters and

events.

a tiered availability of food stalls to the club area.

The quality of lighting was an aspect to be addressed, as the

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PROUD TECHNOLOGY PARTNERS TO SOME OF THE UK'S LARGEST STADIUMS Pioneer Group offer a connected approach to Audio Visual solutions, electrical contracting and network infrastructure, making us the go-to supplier for audiovisual installations within Stadia.

We have a formidable reputation for delivering complete turnkey solutions, managing all aspects of the delivery under a single Project Team.

Our approach is anchored in your success. We don't start with the technology; we begin by examining your needs, wants, and space before designing a solution.

This way, we always ensure that you get the right solution to support your organisation.

Regardless of project size, we support every part of the process from start to finish, including ongoing management, to ensure a lasting harmony between the solutions we provide and those they impact.

GOT A PROJECT? GET IN TOUCH

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IN DETAIL 062 DELTACAST | DELTA-stadium

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DELTACAST DELTACAST Releases DELTA-stadium Infinity: A Limitless Content Management Solution for 8K LED Displays in Stadiums and Arenas ELTA-stadium is the live graphics solution developed by DELTACAST. It allows to control multiple 8K displays at the same time to elevate the fans’ experience in the stadium. Thanks to this solution, each screen in the stadium becomes a new source of monetisation. Its very easy-to-use UI allows a single operator to control all the audiovisual content in the stadium.

With higher and higher resolutions and more and more custom shapes, live video content in stadiums and arenas is constantly evolving. Stadium and sports club managers need to create exceptional immersive experiences in order to reach audiences and create fan engagement. Clubs are also in need of innovative approaches to increase revenues opportunities.

D

ANY SCREEN. ANY RESOLUTION. ANY SHAPE. DELTA-stadium is the solution to the challenge of driving pixelaccurate content to any LED screen resolution (including 8K).

Whether it’s a giant screen, perimeter LEDs, a 360° halo panel or 062

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central-hung screen, DELTACAST technology enables live content with pre-rendered and real-time rendered 2D/3D graphics. It has never been so easy to synchronise an action on multiple displays without result distortion.

Moreover, the Template Editor interface, included in the package, gives users access to templates included in DELTA-stadium or to create their own. In addition, whether the streams are used for soccer, rugby, basketball or tennis, DELTA-stadium’s multi-sport interface allows you to benefit from specifically adapted visuals.

DELTA-stadium allows also new monetisation opportunities with sponsors. Any screen in or outside the stadium becomes a potential advertising leverage during the game - a sponsor logo for main match events, or an ad after the kiss cam, for example.

“It’s easy to create a vibrant culture around the game in the stadium with a multi-channel experience”, explained Lionel Dutilleux, International Sales Manager at DELTACAST. “Moderating, editing and sharing content on any screen in the stadium is made easy with the integrated Social Wall”.

During the game, the operator can easily control any lighting,

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pyrotechnic or audio effect with a DMX/GPIO or MIDI interface. It is also possible to easily add statistical data from external sources such as StatsPerform and quickly display it on any screen to give rhythm to the content broadcast by integrating the feeds from any live camera (kiss cam, referee zoom).

DELTA-stadium partners benefit from DELTACAST premium support, too, as Lionel explained further: “Indeed, we are used to designing customised products, so we are also used to being flexible. Our partners are our interface; if a specific feature is not yet developed but one of their customers needs it, they can share the information with us and we will do our best to integrate it.”

DELTACAST are committed to providing customers with knowledge and its team of qualified and experienced engineers.

“Compared to other solutions, DELTACAST really offers a flexible service with DELTA-stadium. We really work together with our customers when developing new features and that is definitely a big asset for them” commented Jérôme Gillet, Product Manager at DELTACAST.

DELTA-stadium is available in five versions: • Stand-alone machine (up to 3x 4K) - PLAY, EDGE, PLAY+ and ENGAGE versions • Distributed architecture (>3x4K, 8K) - INFINITY version DELTA-stadium solution includes: • DELTA-cg Engine • Template Editor • ScreenMatrix • Sport interface • License Manager

DELTACAST will be attending ISE 2023 in Barcelona. Stop by booth #5C550 to see the strength of DELTA-stadium INFINITY live. deltacast.com

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063

BDP PATTERN Dipesh Patel, Principal & Head of Sport n July 2021, international design practice, BDP acquired Pattern Design. In a year where sporting events have taken centre stage and the eyes of the world are on the development of sporting venues, it is an optimistic time for the studio as it adopts its new moniker - BDP Pattern.

Founded in 2009 by Dipesh Patel, Pattern developed an enviable portfolio of high-profile sports and entertainment projects. The firm successfully won a series of international competitions and major commissions in the Middle East, North and South America, Europe, China and the United Kingdom.

Prior to the acquisition, Pattern’s widespread experience was seen to complement the work completed by BDP at famous sporting venues including Wimbledon All England Lawn Tennis Club, Aintree Racecourse and, most recently, the expansion of the Red Rose grandstand at Emirates Old Trafford for Lancashire County Cricket Club.

Its 40-strong studio of architects, technologists, computational designers, and support staff has continued under the direction of Patel, who has since become a Principal and Head of Sport at BDP. The practice was founded with the intention to design only in 3D with an emphasis on parametric, mathematical design and digital fabrication. The firm won its first five tenders and received plaudits for its design of the Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi, which is still

I

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regarded as a ground-breaking approach to stadium design.

To date, BDP Pattern has played its part in an escalating race to deliver ever more elaborate, costly and ostentatious venues that deliver the best fan experiences. However, with a change in consumer priorities and a growing emphasis on social value and sustainability continuing to shift public opinion, excessive investment and new stadia built solely for global reputation are no longer central to the practice’s and clients’ aspirations.

Today, people want more from new stadia, especially when they are delivered for what is effectively a very short amount of time. This, combined with the progressive values under which both Pattern and BDP were founded, means that the company is designing sports facilities that balance sustainability, community needs, functionality and the best fan experience for the long term. In the words of Dipesh Patel, “It’s a welcome challenge.”

As investment in stadia projects becomes based around a robust business case, grounded in lasting legacy design, strong revenue profile and wider community benefit, BDP Pattern is leading the way in the design and development of stateof-the-art stadia that have a meaningful, positive impact.

For example, in 2019, the Peruvian government successfully hosted the 2019 Lima Pan American

and Para Pan American Games with a keen focus on leaving a lasting legacy of elite athlete development and community value.

All the venues built for the games are simple, lowcost buildings suited to the local technology and sharply focused on their legacy. The main athletics stadium is a good example of a modest venue that had a major temporary capacity increase to host the large crowds for the event, with the capability to repeat this for another future world-scale athletics meeting. The intention to leave a legacy addressed two physical and societal problems in Peruvian athletics; a major headwind that disadvantaged Peruvian athletes in event qualification; and a lack of modern elite development facilities. Now, a sophisticated wind screen turns their troublesome headwind into a tailwind and most of the new stadium pavilion is a world-class residential training centre.

Both of these interventions will benefit the next generation of Peruvian athletes to be the best in the world.

Moreover, the overall precinct is set in an area of Lima that was in need of regeneration. Local income levels are low and general health is below average. Once a locked fortress open only to elite athletes, the precinct is now a major new urban hub that provides support across a variety of sports and wellness needs.

More recently, the Ahmad Bin Ali stadium and Education City stadium hosted matches for

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the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Both have sophisticated cooling technology for year-round use. Although not needed for the tournament, the cooling is a critical part of the legacy of the stadia to allow year-round use in a desert climate. This will enable sport to be a catalyst that helps address health issues related to low exercise patterns, a lack of grass roots sports and the demand for more community spaces. Additionally, although both stadia look totally permanent, almost half the capacity is modular. These modular elements can be reused to create medium-size stadia or a series of stands for almost any sport.

Ultimately, this enables one of the key aims of this World Cup; to assist developing nations in their sporting aims.

As BDP Pattern continues to deliver legacy-focused stadia, it knows there is still a place for major high-end venues that have high utilisation, contribute to the economy and build social capital. The climate emergency presents the most significant challenge for these new mega venues, and the large, grandiose designs of the past will be increasingly unviable in the currency of carbon.

Hence, for many sporting venues a low carbon, lightweight, low cost and adaptable approach is clearly very appealing. A major opportunity is available to the 2026 FIFA World Cup hosts, USA, Mexico and Canada. With NFL/CFL the dominant sport in North America, many large stadia already exist. These could be effectively repurposed for the tournament and the redesigns could leave a legacy of grass roots football as the game grows in the region. In Mexico, football is already huge and the aim here should be a combination of refurbishing existing venues and adding new stadia that address the critical current issues of carbon reduction and building social capital.

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Of course, the global pandemic has been a hard lesson for many industries including sports and entertainment. More generally, there has been an underlying change in habits and interests. The next generation live, communicate and socialise in ever-changing ways. Music festivals are a huge developing trend alongside more established major sports and entertainment models. Technology has seen a huge rise in online gaming supporting live esports events. So, looking further ahead, BDP Pattern is working to invest in further ideas that support innovative use of overlays and legacy designs – allowing poorer nations to host events by using the ideas of upcycling, refurbishment and modular lightweight (low carbon) venues.

As the company goes from strength to strength, Patel and his team are aware that it is only in the last 12 months that facilities around the world have opened following the global pandemic. As a business, BDP Pattern recognises that Covid-19 has had a profound impact on eventgoers, with social habits having changed and the current cost-of-living crisis affecting fans’ spending capacity.

In reaction to this challenging climate, the practice has been working with its clients to ensure venues support organisations in their aim to keep attendance at sport and entertainment events strong. The team understands that stadium experience is crucial and that sport helps build social cohesion, providing relief from the challenges of daily life. Looking toward the future, BDP Pattern wants to continue promoting the huge social benefit sport carries – something which must be supported and funded for the long-term benefit of all global communities.

d FC Sutton Unite

m London Stadiu

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More than a match.

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