Known for hosting rodeos, archery competitions and fairs, as well as movie screenings, Uintah County’s Western Park Arena in Vernal, Utah, recently called in Atkinson Sound to upgrade its sound system. ‘The old system lacked intelligibility,’ says Hoyt Atkinson of Atkinson Sound. ‘They actually quit using it a few years ago and were always bringing in outside systems for different events.’

Atkinson Sound recommended a permanent solution that would not only ensure consistent, high-quality audio for its variety of events but also reduce costs. The new system uses a combination of Fulcrum Acoustic loudspeaker and Apex amplification to address the acoustically reflective environment.

Twelve ceiling-mounted GX1200 coaxial loudspeakers deliver even coverage across the 3,000-seat arena floor. Their symmetrical 100° x 100° coverage pattern attenuates the level immediately beneath the loudspeakers for even coverage.

The tiered seating area is covered by five CCX1526 passive cardioid loudspeakers. Additionally, two CS218L passive cardioid subwoofers are flown over the centre of the arena to augment low-end frequencies, ensuring a full-range audio experience. The cardioid design of both the CCX1526 and CS218L loudspeakers was specifically chosen to manage the reflective nature of the space, minimising low-end energy that can cause late reflections. The resulting system provides even-coverage and excellent intelligibility. The system is powered by four Apex CP1504 amplifiers that are remotely managed via Apex’s IntelliCloud WebUI, allowing adjustments to be made from anywhere in the venue.

The upgrade has won enthusiastic approval from the arena’s management: ‘The comment was that it is 100 times better than the system they had previously,’ Atkinson reports. ‘Now they have a system that they can plug and play – Western Park Arena is now equipped to provide exceptional sound quality for all its events, enhancing the experience for performers and audiences alike.’