Romania - Powersoft’s fixed-installation amplifiers are at the heart of the sound experience at Phoenix Riders, an equestrian sports centre in Ploiesti, an hour outside Bucharest.
Specified by integrator Audiovision, the sound is shaped for the current 20,000 m² footprint which encompasses the competition infrastructure, VIP areas, leisure spaces and training facilities for international-level athletes – but is also designed with future expansion in mind. Phoenix Riders will eventually span an area of 150,000 m², with the development plans set to add large-capacity grandstands, new competition stables, restaurants and a second outdoor arena.
“One of the key technical challenges was implementing a reliable and scalable infrastructure that would support long-term flexibility and high-performance audio distribution” says Audiovision’s Claudiu Albu. Responding to this challenge, Audiovision built the audio system on the Dante audio-over-IP platform, enabling real-time, flexible routing of audio sources, low latency, unified volume and zone control, and full integration with all deployed equipment.
Within this framework, Audiovision was responsible for designing and implementing a complete audio solution capable of delivering consistent performance, coverage and control across a vast and multifunctional space. It turned to Powersoft, configuring amplifiers from its Mezzo, Unica and Quattrocanali series.
Albu continues: “The system needed to meet a wide range of requirements – from powerful sound reinforcement for sporting events, to refined background audio in hospitality areas, and efficient paging across administrative zones.” To meet these needs, Audiovision deployed a distributed amplification structure, with five distinct hubs established in the main functional areas.
The restaurant area hub is equipped with the Quattrocanali 2404 DSP+P and Mezzo 604AD, while the café, conference area and warm-up area hubs feature the Mezzo 604AD and 602AD. The indoor arena hub combines two Mezzo 322AD and two Unica 8K8.
With its distinct five audio zones, the Phoenix Riders installation takes full advantage of Powersoft’s Dynamic Music Distribution (DMD) system. Simone Scaramuzza, EMEA sales manager at Powersoft, adds: “DMD offers system integrators the ability to scale inputs and zones conveniently and efficiently with dynamic routing capabilities embedded in its amplifier platforms, including Unica and Mezzo. It makes it simple to share music between different zones independently from the source without the need for a centralised DSP.”
The set-up is completed with Audac loudspeakers, selected and distributed based on the acoustic needs of each individual zone. Dedicated interfaces, including the Powersoft WM Touch, allow for full control of the DMD system and intuitive access to all key areas of the facility.
“The capabilities of the system were first put to the test at the Phoenix Dressage Challenge which took place in March 2025 and a high-profile international show jumping competition in April 2025 which was attended by participants and media from all over the world,” concludes Vasile Mara, general manager at Audiovision. “With the centre now fully open to the public and the feedback universally positive, we’re thrilled to have delivered this high-quality sound experience for both visitors and athletes which more than matches the standards Phoenix Riders aim for.”
