Acoustic Dimensions provided room acoustics recommendations and the design of a new and upgraded sound system for the Garden State Arts Center, recently renamed the PNC Bank Arts Center. The 17,500-seat open-air amphitheatre and surrounding lawn, is a multi-million dollar performing arts center specially designed for live concerts. In order to accommodate the venue’s wide range of programming throughout the summer concert season the acoustics and sound systems required state-of-the-art control and flexibility. A key goal for the project was the integration of the natural architectural acoustics and the use of electro-acoustic systems, both existing and new.

The audio systems replaced and reworked previous system upgrades done in 1978 and 1984, which were unsatisfactory for the venue’s current programming requirements. A left-center-right stereo system with additional subwoofers was installed and is fully coordinated with large-screen video monitors. Accommodation for a Hearing Assistance system, per ADA guidelines, was also achieved.

Extensive acoustical assessment of the current space, including seating area, stage house, and the interaction between them, was conducted. The space was found to be over-resonant and preserved too much low-frequency sound energy within the seating area, preventing sound from extending fully into the open lawn area. Acoustical treatment recommendations, including the addition of acoustical panels and curtains, were provided to reduce negative reflections and increase low-frequency absorption. PNC Bank Arts Center has been continually rated one of the Top Five most successful amphitheatres in the U.S.