AMEX Stadium

The AMEX Stadium sound system upgrade is a landmark project in stadium audio, setting a new benchmark for clarity, coverage, and future-proofing in the UK.

The Previous AMEX Stadium Audio System & Its Limitations

Before the AMEX Stadium sound system upgrade, Brighton & Hove Albion relied on an older PA and voice alarm system that, while functional, did not meet the club’s aspirations for a modern, high-quality audio experience. The previous setup included Penton loudspeakers and an ATEIS IDA8 voice alarm controller, which primarily served for emergency announcements and general public address messaging.

However, this system had significant drawbacks:
1. Poor Sound Quality – The existing speakers were not designed for high-fidelity audio, making speech unclear in certain areas and music playback flat and uninspiring.
2. Uneven Coverage – Due to the asymmetrical design of the stadium, sound levels varied across different sections, leading to inconsistent fan experiences.
3. Limited Entertainment Capabilities – The system was not optimised for music reinforcement, meaning that pre-match build-up, half-time entertainment, and sponsor messaging lacked impact.
4. Ageing Technology – The analogue-based system did not have the flexibility of modern digital networked audio, making upgrades and expansions difficult.

The New AMEX Stadium Sound System

To address these issues, Solotech installed a state-of-the-art sound system that transforms the stadium’s audio experience. The solution includes:

Main Bowl Loudspeakers
• L-Acoustics A15i Wide & Focus (121 & 33 units) – Ensures full-range, powerful sound across all seating areas.
• L-Acoustics KS21i Subwoofers (48 units) – Provides deep bass for impactful matchday entertainment.

Under-Balcony Loudspeakers
• L-Acoustics 5XT (37 units) & X8i (4 units) – Improves speech clarity and music fidelity under balconies.

Amplification & Processing
• L-Acoustics LA7.16i amplifiers (AES67 audio networking) – Delivers precise control and high-power output.
• QSC Q-SYS DSP System – Enables real-time audio adjustments, routing, and monitoring via a networked control system.

Future-Proofing & Resilience
• Redundant DSP cores & network switches ensure seamless failover protection.
• Stainless steel fixtures & weather-resistant speakers protect against corrosion in the coastal environment.

With this upgrade, AMEX Stadium now boasts the best stadium sound system in the UK, delivering unrivalled clarity, coverage, and entertainment potential.

The AMEX Stadium sound system upgrade was a complex project with several significant challenges that had to be overcome to deliver a world-class audio experience.

1. Tight Installation Window
The entire installation had to be completed within the two-month close season. With such a short timeframe, there was no margin for error. This required meticulous planning, ensuring all equipment arrived on time, installation teams worked efficiently, and system calibration was completed before the first match of the season.

2. Supply Chain Disruptions
The project took place during a period of global supply chain issues, affecting the availability of networked audio components, amplifiers, and processors. To mitigate this, Solotech had to order equipment well in advance, source alternative suppliers, and implement a phased installation so work could continue even if some components were delayed.

3. Asymmetrical Stadium Design
Unlike traditional symmetrical bowl stadiums, the AMEX has varying heights and levels across different stands. This made achieving even sound coverage far more difficult. Advanced acoustic modelling was required to ensure the L-Acoustics A-Series loudspeakers provided consistent coverage, and custom rigging solutions had to be developed to accommodate the stadium’s unique shape.

4. Coastal Environment and Corrosion Risks
Being close to the sea, the stadium’s metal structures are exposed to corrosive salt air, which can significantly reduce the lifespan of standard fixtures. To combat this, stainless steel mounting hardware and weather-resistant cabling were used, ensuring durability in the long term. The L-Acoustics loudspeakers were also chosen for their weatherproof design, making them suitable for outdoor use in harsh conditions.

5. No Cost-Cutting – Quality Above All Else
Unlike many stadium projects where budgets force compromises, there was no value engineering here. Every decision was made with performance and longevity in mind, using only top-tier equipment and installation techniques.
Despite these challenges, the project was successfully delivered on time, making the AMEX Stadium the best-sounding stadium in the UK and fully future-proofed for any event in the years ahead.

This project deserves recognition at the MONDO-DR Awards not only for its scale but for the engineering expertise, challenges overcome, and the impact it has had on the matchday experience.

Unrivalled Sound Quality
With a full L-Acoustics system, including A-Series loudspeakers and KS21 subwoofers, the AMEX now delivers crystal-clear speech, powerful music reinforcement, and an immersive atmosphere for every spectator. This level of quality is rare in football stadiums and makes Brighton & Hove Albion’s home one of the best-sounding venues in the country.

Complex Installation Delivered on Time
This was far from a straightforward installation. The tight two-month off-season window meant there was no margin for error. Global supply chain disruptions added further pressure, while the stadium’s asymmetrical design required bespoke rigging and precision audio modelling. The coastal location introduced additional challenges, necessitating stainless steel fittings and weather-resistant components to protect against corrosion. Despite all this, the project was completed on schedule and to the highest standard.

No Compromise on Quality
Unlike many stadium installations, there was no value engineering. Every element was selected for performance, longevity, and scalability, from the QSC Q-SYS DSP system to the L-Acoustics amplification network. This system has been designed to deliver elite-level audio for years to come.

Future-Proofed for Any Event
The AMEX is no longer just a football stadium—it is now a multi-purpose venue capable of hosting concerts, esports, and large-scale events. The networked control system allows for easy expansion and adaptation, ensuring the system remains cutting-edge well into the future.

Conclusion
This project is a shining example of technical excellence, expert planning, and a commitment to delivering the best possible experience. The AMEX Stadium’s new audio system is not just an upgrade—it is a statement of quality and innovation, making it a worthy winner of a MONDO-DR Award.