In early 2025, the city of Hagerstown came together for the Ladders to Leaders Recovery Benefit Concert, an emotional evening of music and community hosted at the Maryland Theatre. Organized by Ladders to Leaders, a nonprofit that supports individuals transitioning from addiction to recovery, the event aimed to raise awareness and funds for three local recovery homes while celebrating residents’ achievements. With a lineup featuring legendary musicians from KIX, Godsmack and more, organizers needed a touring-grade audio solution that could deliver powerful sound, handle acoustic challenges, and ensure an unforgettable experience for performers and attendees alike.
To meet the demands of the event, Bob Ranalli and the team at All Sound Pro deployed a JBL VTX A Series system featuring VTX A8 line array elements and B28 subwoofers. Known for its clarity, scalability, and fast setup, the system was chosen for its ability to deliver high-impact sound with precision. “We chose the A8s and B28s for their scalability, clarity, unbelievable power for the size, and ease of deployment,” said Ranalli. “It is by far the easiest rigging system, and setting the array angles with the locking system as well as truck transport are incredibly easy.”
To address the venue’s acoustic challenges, including a large parabolic dome ceiling and a mix position located under a balcony, Ranalli used JBL Performance Manager to fine-tune the system. The main VTX A8 arrays were supported by VTX B28 subwoofers in cardioid configuration for focused low-end performance. JBL SRX906 loudspeakers provided front fill coverage for the VIP section, while the house’s under-balcony system was integrated and tuned using Crown VRack amplifiers to match the VTX tonal character.
The system delivered exceptional audio throughout the venue, supporting a high-energy performance led by Brad Divens (Wrathchild America, KIX, Souls At Zero), Shannon Larkin (Godsmack), Bob Paré (KIX), Brian Forsythe (KIX, Rhino Bucket), and guest vocalist Zach Divens. “Having mixed on VTX for several tours, I knew the JBL A8 would rock the Maryland Theatre,” said Brad Divens. “It was a no-brainer to have Bob and his company involved. I’ve worked with him on other projects and knew he was the guy to deliver the show to the audience.”
Ranalli added, “The tones coming off the stage were already exceptional. I feel my job is to get out of the way and let the band shine. The JBL VTXs delivered consistent SPL throughout the venue. You can make it sound big without it hurting.”
Audience and industry response to the concert was overwhelmingly positive, with ongoing praise on social media, local radio and in the press. “The A8s flawlessly delivered all the detail from the guitars and vocals to the punch from the B28s that got everyone’s attention,” said Ranalli. “The musicality of the subs and how they interacted with the A8s helped deliver Brad’s signature bass tone that the crowd definitely came to hear.”
For Ladders to Leaders, the concert was more than just a benefit, it was a celebration of perseverance and unity. “This concert was important to our community as it provided an evening to celebrate those who have faced the challenges of substance misuse and have succeeded in overcoming the issue,” said Alicia Divens, Event Organizer and Board President. “It was a reflection of what’s possible when recovery, music and community come together.”
