Harman's Andy Duffield and Sound Division's David Graham collaborated on the specification and supply of a fully modular, portable AKG CS 2 conference system. It's a plug-and-play system that comes complete with amplifier; each Microphone/Delegate station features two powered speakers and a microphone with 'Call' and 'Volume Up/Down' push button features. The Voice Zoom function means two people can use the station with a consistent output signal. The microphones hook into the top of the base unit and speakers taking the floor simply hit the 'Call' button to activate the microphone and output to each station's speaker system.
The CS 2 Chair/Base station can control up to 200 mics and is the main controller. It has an override facility and all other mics can be switched on/off at the main station. It can be used in Manual or Voice Activated modes, so those wishing to have as little interaction as possible with the system can just leave their station voice activated, knowing that the mic will turn on when they speak. Harman also supplied a lectern sound system, consisting of two discreet AKG C747 mics that attach to the lectern, and two lightweight JBL Eon 10-G2 powered speakers complete with stands and padded zipper bags. This section of the audio system can either be used in stand-alone mode or together with the CS 2.
The AKG automatic mixer that is also an integral component can be utilised to mix between the lectern and conference systems. Harman also supplied two hand-held AKG WMS 40 radio mics and two AKG 40 PT lapel UHF mics. The amp can be set to allow a maximum of five mics to be active at any one time. Sound Division supplied a specially designed flight case for the conference system to pack into, including all cabling.
John Golding explains that it was vital for the Kennel Club to have an adaptable audio system for seminar use - as well as committee meetings. Although some members of the Board were initially reticent about the new technology, once they'd used the system and heard the direct benefits of greater audibility for themselves, they were completely turned around. "They've all found it incredibly easy to use" says Golding, adding they he's been inundated with requests from other Kennel Club committees to use the CS 2 now they know it is available.
The Kennel Club, founded in 1873, is the UK's premier canine institution with a primary objective of promoting the general improvement of dogs. It has over 1500 UK members and since 1848 has run the world-famous Crufts dog show.
(Jane Cockburn)
