Home to the Washburn University basketball teams and the women’s volleyball team, Lee Arena is one of the most exciting venues in NCAA Division II athletics. With seating for more than 4,150 fans, the arena is a central hub for school spirit, competition, and community gatherings in Topeka, Kansas. Beyond athletics, Lee Arena also serves the university in many other capacities. From hosting graduation ceremonies to accommodating community events and speaking engagements, the arena’s versatility makes it one of Washburn’s most valuable spaces. TSI and Sound Products by TSI was tasked with upgrading the University Stadium Audio System.
When it came time to reimagine the arena’s audio capabilities, Washburn wanted a system that could keep up with its reputation. During early conversations, one request stood out: “We’d like you to take us up to the big time!” That vision called for a system that not only enhanced game-day excitement but also delivered clear, powerful sound for a wide range of other campus and community events.
Sound Products by TSI Global (TSI Global), was proud to deliver an audio solution that exceeded expectations. Our team collaborated closely with the university to design and install a high-performance, flexible audio system capable of transforming the fan and event experience inside Lee Arena.
The design process began with a deep dive into the needs of Washburn University. Lee Arena isn’t just about basketball and volleyball—its uses are wide-ranging. On one day, it may be packed with thousands of fans cheering on the team, while the next day, it could be hosting a commencement ceremony or a large-scale community event requiring a stage setup. Each configuration demanded a system capable of adapting quickly without compromising sound quality.
To achieve this, TSI designed a solution centered on Community I SERIES loudspeakers. These professional-grade speakers are known for their clarity and projection, ensuring that every word of a speech and every note of the music reaches the audience—even in the farthest corners of the arena.
Complementing the loudspeakers is an Ashly Protea DSP system. This digital signal processor allows for push-button presets, making it easy for staff to change the audio configuration depending on the event. Whether it’s switching from a high-energy sports atmosphere to a dignified graduation ceremony, the audio system can adapt seamlessly.
In addition, Community D5 ceiling loudspeakers were installed in the Ichabod Room, a multi-use space for press conferences, pre-game events, and other university functions. To round out the system, the design incorporated:
Ashly and Crown amplifiers for reliable, high-powered performance
A Roland digital mixer for precise audio control
Shure wired and wireless microphones for flexibility during games, press events, and ceremonies
A Denon solid state music player for consistent playback of music and other audio content
Our installation team thrives on sports venue projects. Over the years, TSI has developed a reputation for delivering audio solutions that bring arenas, stadiums, and athletic facilities to life. Lee Arena was no exception.
The installation process required careful coordination with the university to minimize disruption to scheduled activities. Our technicians worked efficiently to mount loudspeakers, configure amplifiers, and program the DSP system for various arena scenarios. Every element of the design was tested to ensure peak performance.
The payoff came quickly. At an annual coaches’ dinner held shortly after the system was completed, one of Washburn’s alumni boosters offered a piece of feedback that summed up the impact of the project:
“This is always a wonderful event, but it’s never been as great as this!”
Hearing that kind of response is exactly why our team loves what we do. For us, the thrill of sports venue installations isn’t just about the technical work—it’s about creating moments that energize crowds, bring communities together, and elevate the overall experience.
A great audio system doesn’t end at installation. Washburn University can count on TSI for ongoing service and support to ensure the system continues performing at the highest level. Our team is always just a call away for troubleshooting, adjustments, or upgrades.
To keep the system game-ready, we also offer scheduled maintenance at the start of each basketball season. These proactive checks confirm that every component is functioning as it should, ensuring that players, fans, and faculty enjoy the same crystal-clear sound at every event.
With its upgraded audio system, Lee Arena has taken a major step forward in delivering unforgettable experiences. The Ichabods now compete in an environment that rivals larger Division I programs when it comes to fan energy and atmosphere. Meanwhile, the university gains a flexible, professional-grade audio solution that elevates graduations, press events, and community gatherings.
This project is a perfect example of how thoughtful design, expert installation, and reliable support can transform a venue. Washburn University’s vision of “taking it to the big time” has been realized—and TSI is proud to have been part of that journey.
