Cutting-Edge Audio Upgrade Transforms Neches Federal Credit Union Arena
Beaumont, Texas – Lamar University has taken a major step forward in enhancing its event experience by upgrading the audio system at Neches Federal Credit Union Arena, located within the Montagne Center. The 10,746-seat multipurpose venue, home to the Lamar Cardinals and Lamar Lady Cardinals basketball teams, now features a state-of-the-art sound system powered by Powersoft’s Unica amplifier platform.
A Game-Changer for Live Events
Beyond basketball games, Neches Arena hosts a diverse range of events, including volleyball, gymnastics, wrestling, boxing, martial arts, concerts, and graduations. The outdated sound system, which previously relied on a single full-range speaker with limited delay speakers, no longer met the venue’s needs. To address this, Lamar University sought a high-performance solution capable of delivering clear, powerful, and dynamic sound across all event types.
Advanced Audio Technology for Optimal Performance
To meet the university’s requirements, Anthony James Partners (AJP) designed an advanced audio system that enhances clarity, power, and longevity. The system was installed and configured by Bluum Technology, featuring a cutting-edge combination of Powersoft Unica and Quattrocanali amplifier platforms, as well as a robust Dante AV-over-IP network for seamless audio transmission.
Key Components of the New Sound System:
- Amplification:
- (4) Unica 8K8 (8,000W/eight-channel amplifiers)
- (2) Quattrocanali 8804 DSP+D (9,600W/four-channel amplifiers)
- (1) Ottocanali 8K4 (8,000W/eight-channel amplifier)
- Speaker System:
- 20 Fulcrum FH15 speakers
- 24 Fulcrum CX826 speakers
- 4 Sub218L subwoofers
- Control & Connectivity:
- Midas M32 console
- Shure ULXD wireless microphones
- Q-SYS Core 110f processor
- Netgear M4250 network switches
The new setup also incorporates built-in DSP processing from Powersoft amplifiers, allowing for precise audio tuning and control. The system’s touch-panel interface enables easy zone control and real-time monitoring, ensuring optimal performance during all events.
Overcoming Installation Challenges
As with many older venues, retrofitting a 1984-built facility presented unique challenges. The AJP and Bluum Technology teams had to work within existing infrastructure constraints while ensuring that the new system was seamlessly integrated and easy to maintain. By strategically placing the new Middle Atlantic WRK rack under the bleachers and utilizing the arena’s existing steel grid for speaker placement, the team successfully implemented a clean and efficient setup.
Unparalleled Sound Quality & Efficiency
Powersoft’s Unica platform stood out for its high efficiency, superior power density, and networked control features. With a strong support team in place, Powersoft assisted in optimizing the amplifier settings, ensuring peak performance across the entire system. AJP’s Kendall Bowman highlighted Powersoft’s role in achieving exceptional sound quality:
“They helped make sure the amplifiers were the correct match for the system and offered suggestions to create the best power possible. In addition, they provided some needed support on the control programming side, which allowed the amplifiers to be managed through the Q-SYS platform. This provided great feedback on the touch panel in regards to monitoring system health and allowing zone control of the system.”
A Resounding Success
The upgraded Neches Arena audio system has been met with widespread praise. Lamar University officials and event attendees have noted a significant improvement in sound clarity and coverage. Whether it’s a high-energy basketball game, a live concert, or a graduation ceremony, the venue now delivers an immersive and dynamic audio experience for all.
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