Stadium Sound by Autograph
The Brief
During the 2020 pandemic, as the sporting world began tentative steps towards reopening, creative companies like Autograph were finding innovative new ways to put their theatrical skills and experience to use.
We were approached to partner with them in creating a live simulated “crowd” atmosphere at sports events, that could be dynamically controlled in real-time with the game to build atmosphere and give players the audio feedback they were used to when fans were in the ground.
The Delivery:
The system was operated live by two technicians using control tablets to follow the energy levels and punctuate the dramatic moments as they happen, including anticipatory attacking build-ups, near-misses, outrage at fouls and of course, goals! The system design even allowed directional audio to place chants and cheers in the areas of the stadium the home fans would be at their most vocal.
“Unlike the similar systems being used by the Premier League broadcasters, our system is actually played out into the stadium using a high spec 12.1 concert grade surround sound system. This allows the players to get the full psychological benefit of having the crowd behind them even though the fans can’t be there,” explained Sound Designer Ian Dickson.
“The flexibility of the system also allows us to locate the audio to specific stands within the stadium and position the chants so they sound like they are coming from the home end.”
The sound of the crowds, sourced from Autograph’s extensive archives, gaming libraries, and from partners like Fanchants.com, are mainly live recordings of football fans, often singing in the same grounds as the system was installed, giving unparalleled authenticity.
The system continues to have life post-pandemic restrictions and is now being marketed by speaker system manufacturer d&b under their Fanblock brand, with their global network finding uses for the system in a diverse array of sports around the world.
For more information contact us at hello@entourage.live.
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