Improved Sound Quality at Crystal Ballroom

The Crystal Ballroom, a historical venue known for hosting legends like Little Richard and James Brown, as well as touring stars like Billie Eilish and Katy Perry, has undergone a significant audio upgrade. The venue, originally constructed over a century ago, now boasts a state-of-the-art PK Sound system, installed by Tone Proper.

Nick Moon, owner of Tone Proper, stated that PK's T8 was the right choice for the Crystal Ballroom because it provides the precision and flexibility needed to contain sound where it's wanted and keep it away from where it's not. This flexibility is a significant advantage, particularly when time is tight and a venue throws a curveball.

The audio system installed by Tone Proper includes two T8 robotic line arrays, twelve T18 subwoofers, and a pair of Tx26 loudspeakers for front fills on the balcony. What sets PK Sound apart is the multi-axis robotic control afforded by the T8 solution, allowing the coverage pattern to be precisely adapted to each event's needs without manual intervention.

The Crystal Ballroom's acoustic environment presents a challenge due to its original design not being intended for modern amplified sound. The interior of the Ballroom features reflective surfaces, including floor-to-ceiling windows and a combination of lath and plaster construction. However, the T8 design addresses a common issue in live sound environments by reducing low-frequency buildup behind the array.

The front of house engineer for the Crystal Ballroom's regional acts called the new PK Sound system 'groundbreaking' in terms of power and clarity. Nick Moon, the owner of Tone Proper, also finds the audio quality of the PK Sound system to be impressive, stating that it sounds good and delivers as promised. According to Moon, the ability to tune the room from the ground during soundcheck is a game-changing feature of the PK Sound system.

The addition of the second PK Sound rig to Tone Proper's inventory expands the availability of the technology for various events. Moon has added a second full PK Sound rig to Tone Proper's rental inventory, making the technology available for touring acts and mobile productions.

ACT Entertainment, the exclusive North American distributor for PK Sound, played a critical role in supporting the Crystal Ballroom installation. ACT Entertainment's premium brand focus simplifies ordering parts and logistical help for Tone Proper. ACT Entertainment and PK Sound make Tone Proper feel like part of the family.

The upgrade included the integration of PK Sound's T8 Robotic Line Source Modules, T18 subwoofers, and Tx26 Point-Source loudspeakers. The T8 Robotic Line Source Modules offer unparalleled control over the array's coverage pattern, while the T18 subwoofers provide the powerful low-end needed for modern music. The Tx26 Point-Source loudspeakers ensure clear sound for the audience on the balcony.

Using PK Sound's integrated .dynamics software, the array's coverage pattern can be shaped in real time without the need to pull the system down for changes. This flexibility is a significant advantage, particularly when dealing with the unique acoustic challenges presented by the Crystal Ballroom.

In conclusion, the Crystal Ballroom's upgrade to a PK Sound system has provided a significant improvement in audio quality and flexibility. The T8 robotic line arrays, T18 subwoofers, and Tx26 loudspeakers have transformed the venue's ability to handle modern music, and the T8's multi-axis robotic control ensures that the sound is tailored to each event's specific needs. The partnership between Tone Proper, ACT Entertainment, and PK Sound has resulted in a state-of-the-art audio system that will serve the Crystal Ballroom well for years to come.