"Until recently we had a system that was too complex for staff to use. The problem is that the venue is used for many events and has a large number of users who didn't understand how their actions could affect other parts of the building. On a regular basis, music would suddenly go on or off, be too loud or too quiet - staff didn't understand how to make the system work for them without a step by step instruction from the manager," explains the centre's manager, Lee Jones. "What we needed was a system that was simple and user friendly, and that's where installers, Jansen Professional Audio & Lighting, came in."
After discussing the problems and requirements of the centre, Jansen suggested the Allen & Heath iDR-4 16x16 matrix mixing processor at the heart of the system, with 2 PL-10 rotary fader panels to provide remote control at two other points in the complex. One PL-10 is programmed with full control, and the other with limited control for appropriate zones for less technical users. The operator is able to switch between the tuner, CD player, mobile plug-in units, and wireless mic.
"It's almost as if Allen & Heath had heard of Tamaki Recreation Centre and designed a system for us. It has taken human error out of the equation and improved the centre's overall operation," enthuses Jones. "We've been able to eliminate all the issues regarding wrong areas being activated - no longer will I have to apologise to the Tai Chi group when Van Halen suddenly fires into action, or the aerobics tutor when the music suddenly goes dead. The great thing about this system is that it's so flexible, with plenty of remote access options, and, as the centre grows I can add to it."
(Chris Henry)
