The Rajamangala National Stadium was built in 1997 as part of Thailand’s preparations for the 1998 Asian Games. It is the largest national stadium in Thailand that includes a standard pitch used for football tournaments, as well as track and field events. Originally designed and constructed entirely by locals – which is somewhat unusual – its form is very dynamic, as stands rise twice in height starting from the lowest point behind goals and finishing in a three-tier combination along the pitch. Since its construction, it has been used for a number of major events, and is the home ground for the country’s national football team.
The management at the stadium recently decided it was time for a technology upgrade. Mahajak Development deployed a complete HARMAN Professional Solutions system featuring JBL, Soundcraft, Crown and BSS. Audio integrator, Mahajak Development selected an array of JBL Precision Directivity loudspeakers along the roof of the stadium, alongside a robust network of Crown DCi Series amplifiers, Soundcraft digital mixing consoles and BSS signal processors. The aim of the new system was to offer a high-impact audio system that could deliver even coverage and intelligible sound to every seat, while also streamlining and simplifying production requirements.
“The new system comprises two main clusters which are mid-high and low with a total 28 loudspeakers working together with amplifiers, CD players and a mixer.” JBL Precision Directivity 6212, 564, 595, and 5122 loudspeakers were chosen for their high output, focussed dispersion patterns and WRC weather protection. Strategic placement of the PD speakers and the addition of subwoofers created a powerful full-range system that could project evenly across the stadium.”
“Our challenge was to install the loudspeaker at its position on the roof structure which was very high. Moreover, to arrange the delivery of specific loudspeakers from abroad so they could be installed on time. Another thing was to set up the sound level to cover all areas in the stadium, it was difficult work because of the size of the stadium,” said a spokesperson from the Mahajak team.
The PD6000 Series loudspeakers deliver high power and constant coverage in a low profile form. The series also feature newly developed 24-inch by 24-inch PT Progressive Transition mid-frequency rotatable waveguides that provide versatility, excellent pattern control with low distortion and extremely natural sound character.
“Rajamangala is a huge stadium, so covering every seat evenly was a challenge in itself,” added the spokesperson from Mahajak. “Mounting the speakers on the roof of the stadium was highly challenging as well, and we had to carefully balance their weight and position when rigging up the system.”
Six Crown DCi4 1250N and two 2400N amplifiers provide high-efficiency power to the array while integrating with the stadium’s digital network. Both four-channel amplifiers have digital audio transport via HARMAN’s proprietary BLU-Link, plus balanced analogue inputs and their GPIO ports can be configured in many different ways.
“The Sports Authority of Thailand expected us to provide an audio system with clear sound, both for vocals and music during the performance. All equipment had to be user friendly, durable and easy to maintain including excellent after sales service,” said the Mahajak spokesperson.
Loudspeaker management is taken care of by BSS Soundweb London BLU-100 digital signal processors, which route audio seamlessly with a convenient and stable digital architecture. All mixing is carried out using a Soundcraft Si Impact digital mixing console. Designed to be as simple as an analogue mixer, but offers radical workflow enhancements such as the unique FaderGlow system, massive DSP power, and a pristine 32-in / 32-out USB audio interface, Si Impact delivers digital live sound mixing and recording without compromising on audio quality.
“Elevating the audience’s experience at Rajamangala National Stadium is an absolute delight for us at HARMAN Professional Solutions,” said Ramesh Jayaraman, VP & GM HARMAN Professional Solutions, APAC. “We thank Mahajak Development for their expertise and thoroughness in safely installing a world class HARMAN audio system in this international sporting venue.”
