When Super Bowl LVIII takes place this weekend, viewers at home and fans in the stands will experience a new level of audio immersion. The game’s sound, as well as the highly anticipated halftime performance by Usher, will be amplified through the same PA system. This marks the first time a temporarily installed music PA system will serve as the sound for both the game and the entertainment performances.
ATK Audiotek, a company known for designing and managing the halftime show’s sound system, has traditionally used separate music-PA systems loaded on carts. These systems would be connected to the stadium’s installed PA system for added coverage. However, logistical challenges at previous stadiums have required innovative solutions.
Last year, the roll-out grass field at State Farm Stadium prevented the use of carts, leading ATK to fly the music system instead. This year, Allegiant Stadium presents a similar challenge, and ATK will again fly an entirely new temporary L-Acoustics K2 system. This system will be used not only for the halftime show but also for the game’s announcements and other sound elements.
The implementation of the temporary sound system faced its own set of challenges, including the limitations posed by Allegiant Stadium’s cable-type ceiling and amplifier placement. Nevertheless, the dedicated team of audio professionals overcame these obstacles to ensure an unforgettable auditory experience for both on-site attendees and television viewers.
This year’s Super Bowl halftime show continues the tradition of showcasing top-tier musical talent. Under a multi-year deal with Roc Nation, Usher’s performance follows previous shows featuring Rihanna, The Weeknd, Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, Eminem, Shakira, Jennifer Lopez, and many more acclaimed artists. As the line-ups evolve, the sound systems have adapted to accommodate the bass-heavy rap and hip-hop genres with an increased number of subwoofers.
The smooth transition from the game to the halftime show is facilitated by the already installed system, but it still requires precise coordination from a team of over 100 audio professionals. This team supports the core ATK team, consisting of experienced show mixers and technicians who are veterans of previous Super Bowl Halftime Shows.
As technology continues to advance, the Super Bowl sound experience evolves alongside it. Fans in the stands can now use the NFL OnePass app to tune into different podiums on the field, enhancing their engagement with the game. The convergence of sports and entertainment has only grown stronger, creating ever more spectacular and immersive halftime shows.
Usher, who has studied the performances of past Super Bowl halftime performers, is expected to deliver an extraordinary show. With his extensive experience and the unparalleled sound system in place, this year’s halftime show promises to be a truly memorable experience for millions of viewers worldwide.
FAQs about Super Bowl LVIII Sound System
What is different about the sound system for Super Bowl LVIII?
For the first time, a temporarily installed music PA system will be used as the sound system for both the game and the halftime performance by Usher. This is a departure from the traditional method of using separate music-PA systems loaded on carts.
What challenges did the implementation of the temporary sound system face?
The implementation of the temporary sound system faced challenges such as the limitations posed by Allegiant Stadium’s cable-type ceiling and amplifier placement. However, a dedicated team of audio professionals overcame these obstacles to ensure a memorable auditory experience for on-site attendees and television viewers.
Who is responsible for managing the halftime show’s sound system?
ATK Audiotek, a company known for designing and managing the halftime show’s sound system, is responsible for this aspect of the event. They have previously used separate music-PA systems connected to the stadium’s installed PA system, but this year they are using a temporarily installed system.
Why did ATK Audiotek choose to fly the music system instead of using carts in previous years?
Logistical challenges at stadiums such as State Farm Stadium and Allegiant Stadium prevented the use of carts to transport the sound system. In these cases, ATK Audiotek chose to fly the system instead.
Who has performed at previous Super Bowl halftime shows?
Under a multi-year deal with Roc Nation, previous Super Bowl halftime shows have featured top-tier musical talent such as Rihanna, The Weeknd, Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, Eminem, Shakira, Jennifer Lopez, and many more acclaimed artists.
How has the sound system adapted to accommodate different musical genres?
The sound systems used for the Super Bowl halftime shows have adapted to accommodate the bass-heavy rap and hip-hop genres with an increased number of subwoofers.
How many audio professionals are involved in coordinating the sound for the game and halftime show?
A team of over 100 audio professionals supports the core ATK team, which consists of experienced show mixers and technicians who are veterans of previous Super Bowl Halftime Shows. Their precise coordination ensures a smooth transition from the game to the halftime show.
How can fans enhance their engagement with the game using technology?
Fans in the stands can use the NFL OnePass app to tune into different podiums on the field, enhancing their engagement with the game and the overall sound experience.
What can viewers expect from Usher’s halftime performance?
Usher, who has studied the performances of past Super Bowl halftime performers, is expected to deliver an extraordinary show. With his extensive experience and the unparalleled sound system in place, this year’s halftime show promises to be a truly memorable experience for millions of viewers worldwide.