University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown Sports Center

UPJ's pre-existing system consisted of six Electro Voice SX 500 speakers arrayed over the center court area. Three speakers were aimed at the seating areas on each side of the gym.

The current intelligibility of this system was a significant problem. With commencement quickly approaching, the administration decided to address the problems.

ATS Pro Audio Inc. was retained to perform an evaluation and make recommendations to improve the Sports Center's sound quality. After initial consultations with the staff and administration, ATS worked with C.L. Pugh and Associates, the local Electro Voice representative to come up with a workable solution.

EASE modeling of the existing system demonstrated that the direct sound pressure varied from 72 dB to 101 dB, with significant cancellation in many areas.

Also, the ALCons (intelligibility rating) varied from a minimum of 15 to a maximum of 20.


After additional EASE modeling was performed, a four- zone system was recommended
utilizing the six existing SX 500 speakers as requested by the university.

In addition a single EVI 15 would be added to cover the main floor area

as well as fourteen EVID 4.2 speakers for the second floor mezzanine.

The entire system was to be based around the Electro Voice DX 38 processor, which would allow adequate control over all the proposed areas.

The administration was quick to embrace the design and the university staff was quick to
install the system as specified. ATS Pro Audio then utilized SMAART LIVE to perform system tuning and time alignment after the speakers were installed.

New Sound Pressure Levels:

New ALCon Ratings