Strawberry Sound and JPRO deploy JBL, Soundcraft and BSS solutions to create world-class networked audio systems for Wakatipu High School

QUEENSTOWN, New Zealand—Sound integrator Strawberry Sound recently partnered with audio supplier JPRO to outfit Wakatipu High School’s brand new facility with a full array of state-of-the-art HARMAN networked audio solutions.

Located in the Queenstown suburb of Frankton, the newly built Wakatipu High School embraces OECD Innovative Learning Environment principles, which encourage collaborative educational methods. In addition to classrooms and offices, new Wakatipu High School features a performing arts theater, sports gym, a main foyer with café, dance studio and music recording studio. In order to meet DQLS (Designing Quality Learning Spaces) guidelines from the New Zealand Ministry of Education and ensure premium audio for a wide range of areas, school officials hired Strawberry Sound to install HARMAN networked audio systems throughout the facility.

“To embrace technology from an educational perspective, schools require high quality AV equipment and loudspeakers,” said Nicholas van Dyk, Specialist at JPRO. “The high efficiency of JBL speakers yields better coverage using fewer speakers at lower volumes. As a result, teachers and pupils benefit from not becoming mentally or aurally fatigued due to poor sound quality and acoustics. The building project manager Blair Grier said that Wakatipu High School features the finest acoustics he has ever encountered in almost three decades of experience.”

To deliver clarity and coverage throughout the school’s classrooms, offices, auditorium and gym, Strawberry Sound and JPRO designed and installed a full array of JBL Contractor Control Series speakers and Commercial Series ceiling speakers. The entire system is networked via BSS Soundweb London BLU-103 and BLU-100 digital audio processors, distributed via Dante Layer 3 protocol and managed with HARMAN HiQnet Audio Architect software.

“The open architecture of this platform provides a completely customizable solution for future changes to the paging and automatic phone switching systems,” said Reuben Pearce of Strawberry Sound. “The PABX phone system can dial into the BLU-103 if needed and easily broadcast to the entire school through the headset. The ability to add customized panel settings for paging system helps simplify the faculty and staff’s daily communications.”

For the main sound system in the school’s performing arts theater, the Strawberry Sound and JPRO teams installed a left-center-right array of JBL SRX812 two-way powered loudspeakers and SRX818SP powered subwoofers, flown above the stage. They also included a Soundcraft SI Impact digital mixing console to ensure intuitive professional mixes during productions and events. Microphones and other input signals are connected from the stage to the mixing console via Soundcraft Mini Stagebox 16, and output speaker signals are time-aligned with a BSS BLU-100 digital processor.

“It is a privilege to be associated with the prestigious Wakatipu High School,” said Ramesh Jayaraman, VP & GM, HARMAN Professional Solutions, APAC. “Our high-end audio solutions improve learning experiences and enhance students’ academic performance. Delivering a custom audio system is always a challenge, but Strawberry Sound and JPRO executed the project flawlessly. We thank them for their expertise, attention to detail and faith in HARMAN solutions to complete their client’s projects to a high standard of excellence.”

The Opportunity:

Operating nine hotels throughout the Philippines, Seda Hotels are designed to offer quality accommodations in a high-energy central location within an Ayala Land master planned mixed-used development. A fusion of function and art, each hotel provides modern comforts and conveniences combined with the best of Filipino hospitality.

Located in the up and coming lifestyle and business hub in Quezon City and a few steps away from two major malls in the city, Seda Vertis North boasts 438 guest rooms, a 450-capacity ballroom, five meeting rooms, extensive lunch and dinner buffets, a roof deck bar, pool bar, spa, fully-equipped fitness center, swimming pool and a Presidential Suite.

The hotel’s public address system needed a comprehensive, modern upgrade that could distribute high-fidelity audio seamlessly throughout the complex.

The Solution:

In order to meet these goals, Seda hired Intellismart to design an end-to-end networked audio system made up of JBL, AKG, Crown, Soundcraft and BSS solutions.

Intellismart installed low-profile JBL speakers throughout the premises, which are powered by robust Crown amplifiers. Soundcraft digital mixers allow hotel staff to easily adjust the sound across the entire facility, and AKG microphones AKG microphones enable them to make announcements with crystal clarity. The system is controlled by a network of BSS DSP units, which route high-resolution audio fluidly throughout the building. JBL 24CT recessed ceiling speakers provide plenty of power in the Quezon Ballroom without intruding on the elegant décor. The ballroom can be partitioned into three smaller spaces for different types of events, and the speakers can be divided into zones for independent control. Inputs in the floor allow staff to patch the audio system for additional sound reinforcement.

The Impact:

"We were looking for superior audio for with a seamless control system that would allow our staff to make adjustments easily,” said Group General Manager Brett Hickey. “Knowing HARMAN’s reputation for excellence across all its products, we had faith in Intellismart Technology’s choice to install a comprehensive range of HARMAN audio solutions."

"One of the biggest challenges we faced was integrating Seda Vertis North hotel’s existing public address (PA) system with the new HARMAN system in the ballrooms and meeting rooms. Connecting the HARMAN speakers with the PA system was essential to provide the live-feed needed to automatically generate announcements during emergency or evacuation,” said Gerry Sy, President and CEO of Intellismart Technology Inc. “With the BSS digital signal processors, we were able to incorporate the PA system seamlessly into the larger network. The HARMAN system meets Seda’s unique requirements, providing high-quality audio to their guests with flexible control."

"HARMAN Professional Solutions is honored to deliver a comprehensive audio system designed to meet Seda's unique needs,” said Ramesh Jayaraman, VP & GM HARMAN Professional Solutions, APAC. "We’re pleased that Intellismart Technology chose HARMAN products to accentuate the refined atmosphere at Vertis North with a cutting-edge audio system."

Mahajak Development deploys JBL Professional, Crown, Soundcraft, BSS, AMX and Martin solutions for interactive installations at Bank of Thailand’s Learning Center

BANGKOK, Thailand—Mahajak Development Co. recently deployed an end-to-end HARMAN Professional Solutions AV system at Bank of Thailand’s Learning Center library and museum.

Bank of Thailand is the central financial body overseeing all monetary policy in Thailand. Across the road from its Bangkhunprom Palace headquarters, the Bank recently established a Learning Center complex in its former mint facility. The five-story building contains the Prince Vivadhanajaya Library, dedicated presentation rooms and research areas, a banquet hall and the Bank of Thailand Museum, which offers guided tours and interactive exhibits about the history of Thai currency. The Learning Center required a flexible, integrated audiovisual solution that could be expanded and reconfigured as needed. To meet these goals, Bank of Thailand hired Mahajak Development to design a complete HARMAN Professional AV solution consisting of JBL loudspeakers, Crown amplifiers, Soundcraft mixers, BSS signal processors, AMX control systems and Martin lighting fixtures.

“The idea was to create an interactive environment in the Learning Center using high-tech scalable solutions to ensure our future needs are met as the Center grows and changes,” said the spokesperson for Bank of Thailand. “The interactive exhibitions required clear speech reproduction, eye-catching visuals and advanced control systems to run it all seamlessly. HARMAN’s best-in-class audio systems, video switchers and interfaces helped us create an inspiring, collaborative experience at the Learning Center.”

For large events in the banquet hall and library, JBL VT4888 and AC599 loudspeakers with SRX812P and ASB7128 subwoofers project powerful, high fidelity sound. In the library’s presentation rooms, JBL AC195 full-range speakers and Control 16C/T ceiling units provide even coverage for mid-size audiences. The museum’s smaller exhibits utilize JBL LSR305 studio monitors and E55BT wireless headphones for private listening and audio assistance. Control 28-1 loudspeakers and SB-150 wireless subwoofers provide wide coverage for background music in the entrance hall. The system is powered by Crown I-Tech HD and DCi Series amplifiers. Soundcraft Si Impact digital mixers allow staff to easily make adjustments. Audio is routed through a network of BSS BLU-100 signal processors with flexible digital architecture that can be reconfigured as needed.

To enable seamless AV control, Mahajak outfitted the facility with a network of integrated AMX systems. DVX-2250HD presentation switchers and DGX digital media switchers form the core of the system, connected by DX-TX-DWP transmitters and DX-RX receivers. MSD-701 touch panels and the TPControl iPad app provide staff, presenters and guests with tactile interfaces for controlling various interactive features. Martin MAC Aura and Quantum Profile fixtures create an immersive lighting experience in the banquet hall and museum exhibits.

“A distinct venue like the Bank of Thailand Learning Center requires a world-class audio-visual system that provides end-to-end capabilities,” said Pongsakorn Kanchanachayphoom, Project Director at Mahajak Development. “HARMAN's diverse portfolio of products gave us the ability to build reliable, robust and future-proof AV systems for the venue. There were two overhead projectors installed to ensure complete real-time redundancy. During installation, we made adjustments to ensure the speakers were fitted at the right angles to deliver optimum audio experience.”

“Creating an interactive learning space for Bank of Thailand has been a unique, exciting challenge for HARMAN,” said Ramesh Jayaraman, VP & GM of HARMAN Professional Solutions, APAC. "The project required a sophisticated AV system that would deliver rich sound and stunning visuals for an immersive interactive experience. Leveraging our global experience with projects like this and Mahajak Development’s deep knowledge and capabilities, we were able to seamlessly execute the project.”

New agreement expands Fairlight’s distribution of HARMAN brands to support customer demand for audio and lighting touring solutions

LONDON—Harman Professional Solutions, a wholly owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics, today announced it is extending its partnership with Dutch distributor Fairlight to include tour audio solutions in the Benelux region.

This agreement is an expansion of Fairlight’s existing HARMAN distribution rights, which previously focused on Martin by HARMAN, renowned throughout the industry for its dynamic lighting solutions for the entertainment, architectural and commercial markets. The expanded agreement applies to the full range of tour audio products offered by HARMAN brands JBL, Crown, Soundcraft, dbx and BSS, providing a 360-degree solution to customers requiring both audio and lighting solutions in the touring market.

“We are delighted to extend Fairlight’s distribution rights to HARMAN audio brands,” said Scott Aslett, Regional Director, HARMAN Professional Solutions, Northwest Europe. “We already have a strong established partnership with Fairlight, and given their prominence in the touring industry, this expansion of our partnership will support the great demand for HARMAN solutions and yield improved service to our customers in the Benelux region. Our world-class audio solutions work seamlessly with our innovative lighting solutions, and Fairlight’s industry-leading experience positions them to provide complete HARMAN audio and lighting solutions as an expansion of their previously-existing distribution rights.”

“We are excited about this extension of our HARMAN distribution rights,” said Michael Arntz, General Manager, Fairlight. “The inclusion of renowned HARMAN audio brands means we are now able to offer a complete package, which is something our customers in the touring market have previously asked us to supply. We understand our customers’ needs and we’re happy to offer an all-in-one solution. We are completely aligned with HARMAN’s mission to provide innovative products and engaging customer support. We’ve experienced a great deal of success in distributing Martin by HARMAN lighting solutions, and we look forward to extending that passion to iconic brands like JBL, Crown, Soundcraft, dbx and BSS, satisfying the increasing demand for HARMAN lighting and audio solutions across Belgium, Luxembourg and Netherlands.”

Fairlight has over 30 years of experience providing lighting and audio solutions and is well-known for offering a broad scope of professional services within the industry. The distribution agreement comes into effect immediately. Please contact europeanmarketing@harman.com for any additional questions.

CHENNAI, India—Studio Care recently installed a complete HARMAN Professional Solutions audio system in the Shaheed Baba Deep Singh Auditorium at Guru Nanak College.

Inaugurated by President Shri Ram Nath Kovind on the school’s 42^nd annual convocation day, the 7,200-square-foot auditorium houses 900 seats and is used for various student activities, cultural programs, convocation and other ceremonies. In order to deliver clear and even audio coverage throughout the facility, Studio Care deployed an end-to-end HARMAN Professional audio solution made up of JBL Professional speakers, Crown amplification, BSS signal processors, Soundcraft digital mixing consoles and AKG microphones.

“This is a fairly large auditorium, and the client wanted a state-of-the-art audio system that could deliver clear and uniform coverage,” said Mr. S. Kangayan, Owner, Studio Care. “We chose HARMAN Professional Solutions for their prestigious brands, extensive service network, and the ability to create an end-to-end audio solution from a single manufacturer. We supplied, installed and programmed the entire solution with strong support from the HARMAN engineering team. The JBL loudspeakers have delivered exceptional sound quality and coverage, and the client is very satisfied with the installation.”

The main audio system includes four JBL AM7315/95 loudspeakers and two ASB7128 subwoofers, as well as four AC18/26 loudspeakers for side fills and six EON612 self-powered loudspeakers for stage monitors. The loudspeakers are powered with two Crown DCi 4l1250N power amplifiers, the subwoofers are powered by a Crown DCi 4l2400N power amplifier, and the side fills are powered by a DCi 2l600N power amplifier. Audio is mixed on a Soundcraft Si Impact 32-channel digital mixing console, and AKG microphones provide exceptional clarity and intelligibility for cultural programs, lectures, demonstrations and other presentations.

“Our installation at the Shaheed Baba Deep Singh Auditorium is an important milestone, and our expertise in the education market enabled us to deliver a world-class system in a very unique space,” said Prashant Govindan, Senior Director, India and SAARC, HARMAN Professional Solutions. “The Guru Nanak Education Society is a non-profit organization that is supported by 250 Sikh families residing in Chennai. Despite being a small community, their contribution in the field of education is commendable. During the project’s planning phase, the team at Guru Nanak College communicated that they wanted a high quality system with robust output, which helped deliver the right solution under a tight timeline. The entire project was completed in just two months—from planning to execution.”

ABOUT HARMAN

HARMAN (harman.com) designs and engineers connected products and solutions for automakers, consumers, and enterprises worldwide, including connected car systems, audio and visual products, enterprise automation solutions; and services supporting the Internet of Things. With leading brands including AKG®, Harman Kardon®, Infinity®, JBL®, Lexicon®, Mark Levinson® and Revel®, HARMAN is admired by audiophiles, musicians and the entertainment venues where they perform around the world. More than 50 million automobiles on the road today are equipped with HARMAN audio and connected car systems. Our software services power billions of mobile devices and systems that are connected, integrated and secure across all platforms, from work and home to car and mobile. HARMAN has a workforce of approximately 30,000 people across the Americas, Europe, and Asia. In March 2017, HARMAN became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

ABOUT HARMAN INDIA

HARMAN started its operation in India in 2009 and has been at the core of innovations and transformation from a hardware-focused company to a software- and services-driven business. The company has more than 9000 employees across eight cities in India. In line with Prime Minister, Narendra Modi’s ‘Make in India’ vision, HARMAN has invested significant resources in building its R&D and manufacturing capabilities in India, including a state-of-the-art factory in Pune, Maharashtra that delivers cutting-edge infotainment and audio solutions for HARMAN’s automotive partners, including TATA Motors. HARMAN is proud to support many community efforts and initiatives, such as A.R. Rahman’s Sunshine Orchestra, Pune’s Gaana Saraswati Mahotsava and Mrs. Arundhati Nag’s Rangashankara theatre in Bengaluru. Consumers in India can buy HARMAN products on our ecommerce website HarmanAudio.in

GLOBAL

David Glaubke

Director, Public Relations

HARMAN Professional Solutions

+1 (818) 895-3464 O

+1 (818) 470-7322 M

INDIA

Pallavi Gupta

HARMAN Professional Solutions India

+91-9833066008

Pallavi.gupta2@harman.com      

© 2018 HARMAN International Industries, Incorporated. All rights reserved. Harman Kardon, Infinity, JBL, Lexicon and Mark Levinson are trademarks of HARMAN International Industries, Incorporated, registered in the United States and/or other countries. AKG is a trademark of AKG Acoustics GmbH, registered in the United States and/or other countries. Features, specifications and appearance are subject to change without notice.

Kinoton Korea selects JBL, Crown, Soundcraft and BSS solutions to deliver an impactful fan experience at SK Wyverns baseball games

INCHEON, South Korea—Kinoton Korea recently equipped Incheon SK Happy Dream Stadium with a complete networked sound reinforcement system by HARMAN Professional Solutions.

Built in 2001, SK Happy Dream Stadium plays host to home games by SK Wyverns, a professional baseball team based in Incheon, South Korea. As part of a continuous effort to improve the stadium, which seats 25,000 fans, the stadium recently decided to upgrade the stadium’s aging sound system. In order to provide fans with a rich audio experience with superior coverage and intelligibility, SK Wyverns hired local audio integrator Kinoton Korea to design and install a premium sound reinforcement system. Kinoton Korea selected a complete HARMAN networked audio solution for its industry-leading sound quality and reliable performance.

“The stadium owners love the new HARMAN system—the improved audio coverage really enhances the fans’ experiences during games,” said Cheol Yoon, VP, Kinoton Korea Inc. “South Korea experiences a wide variety of weather as the seasons change, so it was critical that all stadium speakers be weather-proof. The ability to utilize weather-resistant JBL speakers enabled us to provide SK Happy Dream Stadium with a high quality sound reinforcement system that is perfectly suited to the dynamic South Korean climate.”  

The HARMAN system installed by Kinoton at SK Happy Dream Stadium features a range of weather-resistant JBL Professional speakers distributed throughout the stadium, including 54 AM7215/95 WRX, 16 AW595, nine ASB7128 WRX, 37 AC26 WRX, 39 Control 26CT and 15 Control 25AV speakers. The entire speaker system is powered by Crown DriveCore Install Series amplifiers. In the control room, microphone and playback signals are mixed using a Soundcraft Vi1 Series mixer, while two JBL LSR305 speakers provide accurate monitoring.

Kinoton designed the entire system around a BSS Soundweb London BLU-800 signal processor and two BLU-320 expanders, providing the foundation of the custom HARMAN solution. Additionally, six Soundweb London BLU-BOB2 break-out boxes each offer eight channels of analog audio output expansion via the high bandwidth, fault tolerant digital audio bus. Finally, six BSS MC-1 fiber optic media converters provide signal transport over extremely long distances (up to 6.2 miles) using a single cable. MC-1 devices utilize automatic link restoration which re-establishes network links between two devices when any Soundweb London device is disconnected or restarted.

“The BLU Link connectivity helped us ensure clean digital connections between the processors and amplifiers,” continued Cheol Yoon, VP, Kinoton Korea Inc. “The MC-1 was also critical for successful transmission over the necessary distances. The main broadcasting room was in a completely different space than the amplifier racks, so we used optical cables for transmission. The BSS Soundweb London system was the perfect choice in this scenario.”

“At HARMAN Professional Solutions, we understand the excitement that fans feel during baseball games,” said Ramesh Jayaraman, VP & GM, HARMAN Professional Solutions, APAC. “We are pleased that our solutions help keep the momentum at SK Wyverns’ games at a high level. We thank Kinoton Korea for their expertise and excellent customer service, and for their faith in utilizing HARMAN products to satisfy their clients’ expectations.”