Audio Visual Distributors (AVD) is proud to distribute NETGEAR ProAV switches, the technology behind Eden Park’s world-class 80-channel networked audio system. When New Zealand’s premier stadium needed to replace its ageing sound infrastructure, NETGEAR’s GSM4212PX switches delivered the reliability and performance required for 50,000-seat capacity events.
About Eden Park
Eden Park is New Zealand’s largest stadium and the country’s premier venue for rugby, cricket, and major events. Home to the All Blacks and hosting landmark occasions including the Cricket World Cup, the venue demands broadcast-quality audio that can reach every seat while maintaining strict noise compliance at residential boundaries.
The Challenge
- End-of-Life System: The existing sound system reached end-of-life in 2021, requiring complete replacement
- Increased Channel Count: The venue needed significantly more audio zones while maintaining pristine quality
- Noise Compliance: Strict 60dB LA10 limit at residential boundaries required precise control
- Flexibility: Venue hirers required “bring your own device” capability for third-party integration
- Zero Downtime: System replacement could not impact stadium availability or scheduled events
Legacy analogue systems simply could not deliver the channel count, flexibility, and monitoring capabilities required for a venue of this scale.
The Solution: NETGEAR GSM4212PX ProAV Switches
| Application | Components | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Network Backbone | NETGEAR GSM4212PX Switches | Preconfigured for 1Gb AV-over-IP, plug-and-play deployment |
| Audio Processing | Redundant QSYS Core | Digital signal processing with failover protection |
| Noise Management | Junger AES67 Limiter | Web-based monitoring for boundary compliance |
| Mobile Control | Touch OSC Integration | 2D sound panning from any smartphone or tablet |
The NETGEAR GSM4212PX switches were selected specifically for their AV-over-IP optimisation. Designed for 1Gb audio and video applications, these switches come preconfigured with settings compatible with leading AV products, dramatically reducing installation complexity.
Key Outcomes
✔ 80 Audio Zones Across the Stadium – Complete coverage from premium suites to general admission with independent zone control
✔ Rock-Solid Performance at Full Capacity – Flawless operation during sold-out 50,000-seat events including international rugby and cricket
✔ Mobile Monitoring and Control – Sound operators manage levels and zones from PC or smartphone anywhere in the stadium
✔ Simplified VLAN Configuration – Multiple VLANs for primary event audio, control systems, and third-party integration
✔ Rapid Deployment – Installation completed in early January 2022 without disrupting stadium operations
Implementation Highlights
Bartons Sound Systems, one of New Zealand’s leading AV integrators, specified NETGEAR switches for their ease of configuration and proven AV performance. The network-based architecture enabled an 80-channel digital audio path from sound source to amplifiers, a massive improvement over legacy analogue limitations.
“Having everything network-based enables us to get the channel count really high. It is so easy to set up multiple VLANs with the NETGEAR switches.”
Tony Wehner, Managing Director, Bartons Sound Systems
Why NETGEAR ProAV for Stadium Applications
The Eden Park deployment demonstrates why NETGEAR’s AV Line switches have become the backbone of major venue installations worldwide. Purpose-built for audio and video over IP, these switches eliminate the networking complexity that traditionally slowed AV-over-IP adoption.
For stadium operators, broadcast facilities, and large venues requiring reliable, scalable audio distribution, NETGEAR ProAV switches deliver enterprise-grade performance with AV-friendly configuration.
Explore NETGEAR ProAV Solutions
Audio Visual Distributors is Australia and New Zealand’s authorised distributor for NETGEAR ProAV switches. Contact our solutions team for product specifications, pricing, and project consultation.
