Acoustical requirements for large multiple‐use arenas

Abstract

Multiple‐use requirements for large arenas have grown over the past two decades. Activities now include such diverse events as rodeos, athletic events, tractor pulls, circuses, ice shows, road company musical performances, and large assemblies for speech reinforcement. The multiple use of these facilities places strict requirements on the acoustical design. Speech reinforcement for large assemblies is probably the most exciting, requiring controlled acoustics, low HVAC noise, and high‐quality sound system performance. In order for the facility to work successfully for all activities, all aspects of the acoustical design must be carefully integrated during the design phase. Several large arenas are considered, discussing the acoustical requirements and the acoustical methods used in each. The Marriott Center, a 22 300 seat arena at Brigham Young University is highlighted as an example of a successful large arena with very demanding multiple‐use requirements. The uses and corresponding acoustical requirements are examined in detail, as well as the measures taken to achieve the desired results. These methods are contrasted with less successful methods.