Demonstrating the ease of installation and sonic accuracy of JBL VERTEC® line arrays, Meeting Services Inc. of San Diego, CA recently installed a new audio system for the renovated Levitt Shell at Overton Park in Memphis, TN. Since its dedication in 1936, The Levitt Shell has entertained Memphians with a variety of performers, including Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash and the Grateful Dead. The Shell re-opened in the fall of 2008, once again offering free outdoor concerts, with upgraded audio, video and lighting systems.

Meeting Services was responsible for installing the audio and video systems, as well as the lighting system electrical infrastructure. With the goal of providing high-quality, consistent audio in an outdoor environment, Meeting Services turned to JBL’s VERTEC line arrays and Venue Performance Series powered loudspeaker systems. “We have had tremendous success with VERTEC line arrays in the past, including a large number of outdoor events,� said Ken Freeman, Technical Director of Meeting Services. “We installed VERTEC at the Levitt Shell with the knowledge that the system would perform to expectations and has the proven ability to deliver high-quality audio in an outdoor environment.�

Meeting Services’ installation at the venue included 10 JBL VERTEC VT4887ADP powered, compact line array elements with JBL DrivePack® technology and four VT4881ADP powered, arrayable subwoofers. The line arrays are configured in a left-right, stage-stacked arrangement. Eight JBL VP7212M’s are used as stage monitors and two VP7210 loudspeakers are used as front fills. A dbx DriveRack 4800 is the master system controller, with Harman HiQnet™ System Architect™ software in use for remote control and monitoring.

Three pairs of JBL Control 2P’s compact powered reference monitors are used backstage for dressing and green rooms. AKG microphones and dbx DB-10 direct boxes round out the system.

The Levitt Shell re-opened in September with a series of performances featuring Amy LaVere, Kirk Whalum and Teatro de la Rosa. Since the re-opening, Freeman notes the VERTEC loudspeakers have helped to create a dynamic and enjoyable experience for listeners. “The VERTEC line arrays have performed exceptionally, and they were very easy to install,� he said. “The Levitt Shell is truly a historic venue that is now equipped with a state-of-the-art sound system.�

For more information on Meeting Services, please visit www.msiprod.com

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