Genesis' dancefloor speakers are four SP222s from JBL's Sound Power Series - 1500W each with 12" drivers. For bass, Simpson chose two JBL VS125HS speakers, combined with two SP128 subs. For maximum impact, he has sub-divided the low frequencies: the VS125HSs are used for around 100Hz, while the SB128s add an extra octave to the bottom range, launching the 50Hz frequencies that kick deep into the pit of the stomach. These all circle the outside of the dancefloor pointing inwards, so the room sound is evenly focused into the centre of the dancefloor.
Pointing outwards from the dancefloor are six JBL MS112s from the Marquis Series. Their purpose is to retain the top end and to ensure that people standing around the dancefloor -but not on it - also have a good sound. These are delayed slightly to keep in time with the bass frequencies coming off the dancefloor. Around the bar area, apart from getting the right sound levels, it was also necessary to prevent noise pollution seeping out of the front door. Here, the sound starts with JBL MS112s - complete with calculated delays so the bass keeps pace with that of the dancefloor as it permeates the area. There are also two JBL Control 28s with even longer delays. This configuration means any remaining sound filtering in from the dancefloor is added to proportionately, enabling those at the bar to hear the tunes clearly, but not get blasted away by any penetrating frequencies from that area. If all the bar speakers are switched off, there's no change in decibel level at the front door as the sound coming out would be all loww frequencies.
SI S&L set all the speaker parameters by using a dbx 481 Drive Rack system, also supplied by Arbiter, used to control the sound for the whole club. Drive Rack deals with all crossovers, delays and EQs, and additionally contains a programmable analyzer for speaker management. It assesses each speaker in turn and performs the necessary calculations. The drive rack was pre-programmed before the speakers were installed, saving valuable time, leaving only the final five per cent of fine-tuning to be done swiftly and in situ. Arbiter also supplied the new Powersoft 7000 Series amplifiers to drive Genesis' sound system. It's the first time SI S & L has used Powersoft, and at Genesis these amps are utilized to drive the sub bass.
