Michigan Stadium – one of US college football’s most iconic venues – has installed an EAW Anya three-way, full-range ADAPTive Array Modules and Otto ADAPTive subwoofers.
Led by lead audio/visual engineer Paul Haley, a recent multi-million-dollar project included the new audio system, two new video boards (the main North videoboard and a South videoboard), as well as lighting and production studio upgrades. ‘The decision to integrate EAW speakers into the renovation project came after meticulous consideration and consultation with industry experts,’ Haley says.
‘We wanted a bigger videoboard, but also needed better audio throughout the venue. We used a different manufacturer’s audio system for over a decade but opted to explore alternatives to achieve our objectives.’
Collaborating with design firm WJHW, the university chose EAW loudspeakers based on their previous experience with the brand, having installed them a few years earlier in the school’s Yost Ice Arena – where they continue to perform well.
‘Michigan Stadium required a powered loudspeaker solution since there is not enough conditioned space near the north-side scoreboard for the associated equipment racks,’ says WJHW audio consultant and associate principal, Mark Graham. ‘EAW’s Anya and Otto are positioned right next to the video screen on the North side of the venue, as part of the enclosure, and the products’ form factors allowed the design to maximize the space usage. With ADAPTive technology, we were able to direct the sound output to the spectator seating areas while maintaining sound quality and the SPL needed in the football environment.’
With a focus on enhancing low-frequency reinforcement, the system comprises 28 Anya cabinets per side, accompanied by 12 Otto subs on each side to ensure even coverage and superior intelligibility throughout the stadium. The installation and tuning process, overseen by MetInteractive in collaboration with EAW, ensured minimal disruption to the stadium’s runnung.
‘The Anya speakers deliver exceptional performance and maintain clarity and consistency over considerable distances,’ says Haley. ‘It’s over 900ft from the speakers to the farthest seats, so it is a very long throw distance, and yet intelligibility is very good all the way across the stadium. Advanced tuning techniques, including precise start and stop coverages, were implemented to minimise audio distortion generated by building surface reflections to further enhance intelligibility for the fan experience. Since the north-side videoboard directly faces the south board, EAW set up a stringent end of coverage right at the bottom of the South scoreboard, using its Resolution software, to minimise the slap back, which has been fantastic.’
In addition to the ADAPTive system in the sides of the north scoreboard, several MKD loudspeakers were installed in the Jack Roth Stadium Club to provide sound reinforcement for this premium seating area.
‘Along with performance, reliability is key for us, and the Anya speakers deliver on both fronts,’ Haley adds. ‘The university’s commitment to unparalleled audiovisual experiences for fans is underscored by the integration of EAW technology, marking a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to enhance the stadium infrastructure.’
More: https://eaw.com
