Visionary’s AV over IP solutions have been installed in the Warrior and Victory Lounge, at Fratton Park, home to Portsmouth Football Club in the UK. The club’s goal was to modernise the lounge with modern audiovisual solutions, turning it into a more versatile space.
The existing lounge setup lacked the flexibility needed to accommodate a variety of events. While it served as a gathering space for fans on match days, it was not optimised for conferences, corporate presentations, or fine dining events. The absence of an integrated AV system further complicated matters, making it difficult to display live TV, manage digital signage, or deliver high-quality audio.
To overcome these challenges, the club partnered with Workspace AV to implement a series of innovative solutions. A key component of the upgrade was the integration of a Visionary AV over IP system, which provided each screen with independent control. Visionary’s technology meant that the club could easily expand the system without costly infrastructure changes.
This was paired with an Embed Signage system, enabling the club to centrally manage its digital signage. Live TV streaming was also introduced across multiple displays, offering guests a more immersive viewing experience.
Audio was another critical component of the transformation. The club required a system that could adapt to different event types, from the high-energy atmosphere of match days to the refined ambiance of corporate gatherings. To achieve this, Extron audio amplifiers, pendant speakers, and a DSP system were installed, alongside Sennheiser microphones. The introduction of iPad-controlled Extron processors significantly simplified AV management, allowing staff to adjust settings with minimal training.
A standout feature of the project was the 3m Dahua LED screen with a 1.5mm pixel pitch. Complementing this were seven additional professional displays, strategically positioned throughout the lounge to maximise visibility.
Beyond the lounge itself, the Fan Zone was integrated into the AV system, featuring an interface to the DJ booth that enables direct control over external audio. This setup not only supports live DJ performances but also provides ambient sound to enhance the overall atmosphere. Additionally, the external IP-rated speakers allow for the overspill of event audio from the Warrior and Victory Lounge.
Visionary says its PacketAV Matrix Series makes the entire AV infrastructure highly adaptable, with ultra-low latency and superior video quality. The simplified AV controls have also led to a 50 percent reduction in event setup times, the company says.
Darren Parker, head of technology at Portsmouth Football Club, said: “The transformation of the Warrior and Victory Lounge has been remarkable. The AV solutions provided have not only enhanced the fan experience on match days but also turned the space into a highly sought-after venue for corporate events. The simplicity of the control systems means our staff can manage everything effortlessly. A truly game-changing upgrade for Portsmouth FC.”
