JBL Intellivox sets a benchmark in AV integration of historic buildings

The Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi has improved the pilgrims' experience with JBL Intellivox. I exhibit and FP Service have implemented their solutions in addition to the BSS y AMX to offer intelligibility and optimal control in this historic monument.

The Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, one of the most emblematic spiritual destinations in the world, has made a major update to its audio and control system to improve the worship experience and the millions of pilgrims who come every year. The project has combined JBL Intellivox speakers, BSS signal processing and AMX control systems (brands belonging to Harman Group) to offer precise coverage, intuitive operation and perfect integration into the 10.000 square meters of outdoor space of the venue.

This place of worship was the cradle of the Franciscan movement, characterized by humility, poverty and devotion to creation. With two adjoining churches, frescoes by Giotto and a large square that welcomes large concentrations of faithful and tourists, the venue presents great challenges for sound.

Acoustic demands include projection of the spoken word at distances up to 70 metros, covering both the upper and lower squares with constant clarity. Besides, Historic architecture had to be preserved through the discreet integration of technology into centuries-old stone walls.

To face these challenges, the integration team has installed six altavoces JBL Intellivox HP-DS370 and two altavoces HP-DS170, with personalized colors to blend into the surroundings of the Basilica.

Known for their ability to offer highly focused coverage, Intellivox arrays have ensured uniform sound pressure levels and high speech intelligibility in all outdoor spaces, while minimizing reflections and acoustic dispersion. He Processing and distribution system is based on the BSS BLU-160 with a BLUE-DMG, compatible with BLU input and output cards.

He control has been done through AMX Varia SL-5.0 touch panels located at key points of the Basilica, along with AMX Muse processors 2300 y N2600 series encoders and decoders to simplify audio and video management for non-technical users.

The installation was carried out by FP Service, under the direction of its owner, Gianni Ferroni, with design support from Exhibo pre-sales specialists, Andrea Ficara and Massimo Fucà, and Marco Saini's programming.

Despite logistical challenges, including transporting equipment through the narrow access roads to the basilica, The integration was completed as planned. According to the Director of Communications of the Basilica, Julius Caesarean, The response from the community has been extremely positive., and visitors highlight the intelligibility and presence of the system even in the upper plaza.

“The intelligibility is really impressive. The system improves our ability to share the message of St. Francis clearly, respecting the history and sacred surroundings of the basilica”.

By combining the precision of JBL Intellivox with the durability of BSS and the simplicity of AMX control, The project sets a new benchmark in the harmonious integration of advanced technology in world heritage sites. For the millions of pilgrims and visitors who continue to come to Assisi every year, the basilica now offers a richer spiritual experience, clear and accessible.