Fans Allowed Back

German audio technology and solution company d&b audiotechnik has partnered with theatrical and creative sound designer, Autograph, to co-develop and launch a stadium sound application that will be first utilised at the home of English Championship football club Queens Park Rangers (QPR). Dubbed d&b Fanblock, the venture, which is powered by Autograph Stadium Sound, delivers a real-time controlled, sound solution to venues without fans, or with a reduced number of fans on site. Using a d&b sound system design positioned within a stadium or arena, d&b Fanblock creates a multi-channel surround sound system which, when combined with Autograph’s playback software, means venues can again be filled with the sound of fans.

The basic audio content consists of non-team specific sounds including background ‘bed’ loops to provide a continual atmosphere within the stadium and a library of sound cues that can be triggered by operators in reaction to the action on the pitch. The custom sound design package offers club-specific chants made possible through Autograph’s content partner, FanChants. www.thestadiumbusiness.com/2020/10/14/qpr-to-roll-out-stadium-sound-platform/

Stadiums are due to be allowed to re-open from December 2 once the second coronavirus lockdown is eased. Sportsmail revealed on Tuesday that the Department for Culture Media and Sport has submitted proposals to the Cabinet Office for the return of fans to grounds in December. But now 4,000 spectators - or 50 per cent of a stadium's capacity for outdoor events, depending on which is lower - are set to be allowed in Tier 1 areas as well as 2,000 spectators or 50 per cent capacity for indoor events also due to be allowed.