West Virginia University Coliseum Goes Big With JBL PD Series Loudspeakers

Demonstrating the sonic accuracy and power of JBL PD Series loudspeakers, Panasonic’s Tech Services Group recently installed a new audio system, designed by Acoustical Design Group, at the West Virginia University Coliseum. Home to the West Virginia University men’s basketball team, the Coliseum now boasts a state-of-the-art audio system comprised of a variety of PD Series loudspeakers.

Located in Morgantown, West Virginia, the West Virginia University Coliseum seats 14,000. The upgrade to the audio system was part of a larger renovation that included the installation of a new NBA-style video scoreboard and a new lighting system.

The main bowl system at the Coliseum features a variety of JBL PD Series loudspeaker models, including the PD5212/64, PD5212/95 and PD5322/64, with 10 PD5122 low-frequency loudspeakers intermingled on top of the scoreboard, alternating with the other PD Series models. The main bowl system also includes one JBL ASB6118 subwoofer on the top of the scoreboard.

Other PD Series speakers are placed underneath the scoreboard to cover the floor area, while the speakers on top of the scoreboard cover the lower decks, also providing low-frequency output. Additionally, a top satellite ring of PD5212/64 loudspeakers ties into a circular catwalk, covering two-thirds of the top deck. Crown CTs amplifiers power the system.

“This was our first time working with the PD Series and we were extremely pleased,” said Ian Wolfe of Acoustical Design Group. “We got excellent pattern control, terrific overall frequency response, the loudspeakers were easy to install and the price was right as well.”

“We have a great working relationship with JBL and we try to incorporate them into most of our projects,” said Ken Blanchies of Panasonic’s Tech Services Group. “Given the value and quality of product they have, it’s a great company to work with.”

According to Blanchies, the PD Series loudspeakers provide smooth coverage and perform according spec.  “That’s an important quality because the Coliseum was built in 1970 and we were dealing with acoustic properties that weren’t even considered back then,” Blanchies said. “There is a ton of concrete surfaces, including on the roof, so we were dealing with a lot of reflections and lobing. Once Ian came in and tuned the system, he put some small parametric notch filters in six or seven locations, and we were ready to go.”

“The collaboration with Ian Wolfe and his team was phenomenal, I can’t speak highly enough of them,” Blanchies said.

For more information on Acoustical Design Group, please visit www.adgkc.com

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