Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA, April 23, 2026 – ArtsQuest today announced a major upgrade to the sound system at the Levitt Pavilion SteelStacks presented by Lehigh Valley Health Network, part of Jefferson Health. The installation of a new, state-of-the-art PA system for the Levitt stage will deliver improved sound quality, broader coverage and an enhanced experience overall for performers and audiences.
The upgraded sound system will debut with the Levitt Pavilion’s 2026 summer season, enriching more than 50 free concerts, movies, community events and performances that draw over 50,000 attendees annually to the ArtsQuest Campus at SteelStacks.
The new system, installed in partnership with Bauder Audio Systems of Horsham, Pa., replaces a decades-old PA system and will ensure that every performance—from concerts to summer movies on the lawn—meets modern production standards.
“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, and this new system allows us to provide that for our artists, our audiences and our community.”
The new audio system features a full L-Acoustics ecosystem, widely regarded as an industry standard for touring and live event production. The configuration includes KARA II main arrays, KIVA II side arrays and KS28 subwoofers, supported by advanced amplification and processing technology designed to deliver consistent, high-quality sound across the entire Levitt lawn.
The system’s design enables:
- More even sound coverage from the front row to the back of the lawn, including the sidewalk and outer areas
- Improved clarity and listening experience for audiences
- Greater operating volume and headroom to meet the demands of today’s touring artists
- Faster and easier setup for visiting sound engineers
The previous PA system—originally developed in the early 2000s—operated below the volume levels typically required by modern touring productions and required ongoing maintenance with mismatched components.
As a result, ArtsQuest was often required to supplement the system for larger shows, adding complexity and cost to productions.
“With the previous system, we were constantly working around limitations such as aging equipment to gaps in performance compared to what touring artists expect today,” said Scott Dean, Production Manager, ArtsQuest. “This upgrade removes those barriers and ensures the Levitt stage can meet and exceed those expectations.”
The new system also includes manufacturer-backed warranties ranging from five to 10 years, ensuring reliability for years to come.
“This project was about delivering a system that meets the expectations of today’s touring artists while improving the experience for every guest on the lawn,” said Brian Naab, Production Manager, Bauder Audio Systems. “The L-Acoustics design allows for incredibly consistent coverage and clarity across the entire venue, and we’re proud to partner with ArtsQuest to bring a world-class listening experience to a community space like Levitt Pavilion.”
This program is being funded in full or in part with funding from the Hotel Tax Grant Program through the County of Northampton Department of Community & Economic Development. Longtime Levitt donors and community volunteers Chuck and Cindy Yeoman also contributed to the project.
In addition to the upgraded sound system, ArtsQuest continues to offer an assisted listening experience at Levitt Pavilion to support guests who may benefit from enhanced audio accessibility. The system is accessible through personal smartphones or other Internet capable devices, allowing guests to connect and listen using their own headphones and earpods. Please inquire on the lawn to learn more about how to access the service.
About Levitt Pavilion SteelStacks
Levitt Pavilion SteelStacks is a 501©(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to build community through the power and joy of free, live music. As we are looking ahead to a musically filled summer, please consider supporting Levitt’s mission by becoming a Friend of Levitt member. Learn more about our membership program by visiting http://www.levittsteelstacks.
About ArtsQuest
ArtsQuest’s mission is to provide access to exceptional artistic, cultural and educational experiences, using arts and culture as drivers of economic development in our urban communities. ArtsQuest supports this mission through performing and visual arts, film, arts education and outreach, youth programming and a wide range of cultural events, anchored by signature venues and initiatives including its flagship event, Musikfest; the ArtsQuest Creative Factory powered by PPL, a centerpiece for the Valley’s artistic communities; the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks; and the LVHN, part of Jefferson Health Turn & Grind Shop, an adaptive reuse project expanding space for programming, festivals, private events and nationally touring exhibits. ArtsQuest welcomes more than 2 million people annually, with nearly 40 percent of its programs free to attend, generating a regional economic impact of close to $193 million in 2025. ArtsQuest’s Re-Imagine That! Capital Campaign supports the continued growth of its mission to make the arts accessible for all.
Information provided to TVL by:
Bryn Keeney
