The first permanent installation of Meyer Sound’s Leo system has been completed at the 105,000-seat Ohio State University Stadium.

The core Leo system comprises twin hangs of 14 Leo-M line array loudspeakers with bass support from ten 1100-LFC low-frequency control elements. A Galileo Callisto loudspeaker management system with two Callisto 616 array processors provides drive and system optimisation. Mounted inside the video screen scoreboard structure at the south end of the ground, the system projects sound across the bowl, reaching over 900 feet to the top seats on the north end.

Designed by Larry Lucas of Anthony James Partners, the installation also includes six Meyer Sound SB-3F sound field synthesis loudspeakers aimed at the far reaches, two UPA-1P loudspeakers for under-scoreboard fill, and two Galileo 616 processors for overall system management. The upgrade also retains – and in some cases repurposes – components from a Meyer Sound system installed 12 years ago, including MSL-4, MSL-6, and SB-1 loudspeakers. These loudspeakers are largely directed into the nearest third of the open bowl, while a distributed system of UPM-1P loudspeakers are used for deep under-balcony coverage.

‘The Leo system sounds great, covers very well and gets loud,’ says Wayne Stephens, electronics superintendent for Ohio State Athletics. ‘With an excited crowd of over 105,000, the noise here gets pretty intense. But with Leo we can stay well above them without pushing the system.’

Debuting in summer 2012 at major music festivals in North America and Europe, Leo is Meyer Sound’s integrated system for high-output reinforcement in larger arenas, stadia and at outdoor rock festivals. Leo systems have supported international events including the recent Nobel Peace Prize Concert in Oslo, Norway.

This first system presages a new era for full-range audio accompaniment of sports events, according to Kelly Prince of Pro Sound & Video, the Florida-based systems integrator handling the project: ‘The sound quality is superb, the coverage is excellent, and there is plenty of headroom,’ she says. ‘Also, in pre-game and time-outs, the system can definitely push low frequencies to the far end of the stadium. I daresay there is not another stadium sound system in the country that can touch it.’

Headquartered in Miami with offices in Orlando, Pensacola, and Los Angeles, Pro Sound & Video is a leading integrator of large and complex A/V systems in performing arts centres, stadiums, and arenas. Other recent installations of note include Amway Center in Orlando, New World Center’s SoundScape in Miami Beach, Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts (formerly Carnival Center for the Performing Arts) in Miami, and sports facilities at the University of Florida and Mississippi State University.

More: www.meyersound.com