SoFi Center, Palm Beach Gardens, FL, USA

Context

The Team

L-Acoustics Pioneers a Re-conceptualized Sporting Arena for a New Elite Golf League

The world of sports entertainment is constantly evolving, and the SoFi Center in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, represents a groundbreaking leap forward. This custom-built venue was designed to host TGL, which was presented by SoFi. This first-of-its-kind prime-time team golf league merges cutting-edge technology with live competition to create an unparalleled spectacle for fans. The 250,000-square-foot SoFi Center is a fusion of a state-of-the-art virtual course and a unique short-game complex, demanding a professional sound system capable of delivering much more than just commentary.

The Challenge

The primary challenge in designing the sound system for the SoFi Center was to reimagine the relationship between sound and sport. ESI AV Solutions, the L-Acoustics Certified Provider tasked with the installation, faced the unique challenge of creating an audio environment that could handle everything from crystal-clear commentary to dynamic music integration and even volcanic sound effects. Matt Coombs, Director of ESI AV Solutions, emphasized that this project wasn’t just about another sports venue; it was about creating a virtual reality set within a massive television studio, where technology and top-flight athletic talent converge to redefine golf entertainment. The goal was to move beyond traditional golf spectatorship and create an exciting entertainment experience, requiring a professional sound system that could deliver both power and precision.

The Solution

A comprehensive L-Acoustics professional sound system was designed and implemented to meet these challenges. The system features 14 primary arrays with two L-Acoustics A15i loudspeakers and KS21i subwoofers to cover the main audience areas. For the field, two additional hangs of one A15i loudspeaker were installed. The entire system is powered by the LA7.16i amplified controllers.  

VIP areas and suites also received meticulous attention to sound design. Eighteen ultra-compact L-Acoustics 5XT coaxial speakers, powered by LA2Xi, were discreetly wall-mounted in the suites for pre- and post-event speech. VIP boxes utilize eight wall-mounted X6i speakers, while owners’ boxes each feature a pair of larger X8i speakers. Furthermore, 44 5XT speakers, powered by LA 7.16i, were strategically placed around the interior of the field to provide under-balcony fills for the stands, focusing on player microphone audio. The A Series handles speech and music for the stands. This distributed design, incorporating Milan-AVB networking technology, was crucial for ensuring perfect synchronization and exceptional sound quality throughout the venue.

The Result

The installation of this state-of-the-art professional sound system has set a new benchmark in sports entertainment. According to Preston Russ, Regional Sales Manager at L-Acoustics, “We’ve created what we believe is the world’s first golf venue equipped with a full-bandwidth audio system”. The system’s distributed design and Milan-AVB networking technology ensure perfect synchronization and exceptional sound quality throughout the venue, delivering everything from thunderous effects to crystal-clear commentary. The result is a first-of-its-kind audio experience that perfectly complements TGL’s innovative vision for the future of golf.

Project photos