ArtsQuest has announced the installation of a new, touring-quality PA system at the Levitt Pavilion SteelStacks ahead of the 2026 summer season. The upgrade is designed to improve sound clarity and coverage for the more than 50 free concerts and community events held annually at the venue.

The new system, featuring a full L-Acoustics ecosystem including KARA II main arrays and KS28 subwoofers, replaces a decades-old system that dated back to the early 2000s. The project was completed in partnership with Bauder Audio Systems of Horsham, Pennsylvania.

“Our new sound system is a significant investment for the Levitt Pavilion and for everyone who experiences live music and entertainment at SteelStacks,” said Cory Stevens, executive director of Levitt Pavilion SteelStacks. “We believe free shows should deliver the same level of production quality as ticketed events.”

The previous audio equipment often operated below the volume levels required by modern touring artists, frequently requiring ArtsQuest to supplement the system with rented gear for larger performances.

“This upgrade removes those barriers and ensures the Levitt stage can meet and exceed those expectations,” said Scott Dean, ArtsQuest production manager.

The installation provides more even sound coverage across the entire Levitt lawn, from the front row to the outer sidewalks. Brian Naab, production manager at Bauder Audio Systems, noted that the L-Acoustics design allows for consistent clarity across the entire community space.

Funding for the project was provided in part by the Hotel Tax Grant Program through the County of Northampton Department of Community & Economic Development, with additional contributions from donors Chuck and Cindy Yeoman.

In addition to the hardware upgrade, ArtsQuest continues to offer an assisted listening experience at the pavilion. Guests can connect to the system via smartphones or internet-capable devices to listen using their own headphones or earpods.

The new system is set to debut during the 2026 summer season, which draws over 50,000 attendees to the ArtsQuest Campus annually.