In both cases, the in-firing arrays were comprised of four RCF TTL31-A compact self-powered 2-way boxes, each outfitted with a single-8 and three compression drivers, with horizontal dispersion of 100 degrees.
The out-firing arrays were dBTechnologies T4 modules, a 3-way self-powered box loaded with a single-8, a single-6.5 and a compression driver, also providing 100-degree horizontal dispersion.
A couple of caveats also came into play at these locations.
The array serving stage left was joined by two RCF ART322i compact loudspeakers on the deck to further widen the coverage needed for that area, while the array serving stage left added two more boxes to further extend coverage down Surf Avenue.
An RCF TTS56-A dual-21 active subwoofer resided under each platform, concealed by scrim.
Getting It Dialed In
A key to making it work at an optimum level is the exacting placement of each array. Adjustments of just a few degrees left or right make a significant difference.
The actual physical movement is done manually by the crew based solely upon listening tests by Nathan – there’s no opportunity to set up a measurement rig on a busy city street during the setup process.
In addition, the arrays can’t be flown in deference to staying out of television camera sightlines as much as possible.
“We really got it dialed in this year with respect to overall coverage, and in particular with the vocal intelligibility. A big key to the production is George’s dialogue throughout the proceedings, and we need to be sure everyone can hear every word clearly,” Nathan says.
“The combination of these high-quality loudspeakers, combined with the attention to detail with respect to placement, has taken the audio performance to another level. This year I think we solved the problem of complete coverage far better than in previous years.”
Extreme long-throw coverage down Stillwell Avenue, where the majority of the audience congregates, was provided by a platform-stacked array of four RCF TTL55-A self-powered array modules, each with 3,500 watts of onboard power driving a dual-12, a single-10 and three 1.5-inch compression drivers.
Also joined by a TTS56 active sub, this array’s platform was placed just behind the media area (number 3 on the diagram). During sound check, I walked a few blocks down Stillwell Avenue and can verify that it provided plenty of output for the application.