More than 30 companies and 200 people attended the event, staged by the Institute of Sound and Communications Engineers at the Park Inn Hotel Watford, to exhibit the latest developments in microphones, loudspeakers, public address, voice alarm, induction loop systems, conference systems, intercoms and voice over IP.
The informative seminar programme on 27 February included topics as varied as designing church sound systems, co-operation between universities and industry and even how a major contract was won, but somehow all went wrong.
One seminar, given by Alan March of Shure Distribution UK, proved a big topic of discussion. His talk, entitled The great TV spectrum sell-off, outlined the latest developments in Ofcom's proposed sale of broadcast frequencies and, as a representative of the British Entertainment Industry Radio Group (BEIRG), he pointed out the huge problem facing the UK if the current radio microphone frequencies.
Arthur Brine, of APB Sound, said: "At the ISCE seminars, there is always something new to learn that will be of value, not only in our every day work but in our professional standing in the wider world. The talks were not just theory - these were real issues being presented by real engineers operating daily in the real world. For me the day was stimulating and refreshing to absorb and discuss the kind of topics which make the engineering profession so exciting."
Following its success, companies have already started booking up for ISCEx2008 on 26 February 2008 and the organisers would welcome proposals for technical seminars from potential exhibitors and visitors alike.
Craig Buckley, managing director of RW Salt Communications Ltd, said: "We found ISCEx an invaluable opportunity to meet with existing and prospective customers. The blend of seminars and exhibitions serves to keep the visitors interested and allows them to plan a full day at the event to maximise the benefit of going."
Andy Scott, in charge of the event since it started in Birmingham in 2001 said: "ISCEx brings members together to exchange knowledge and to network in a relaxed environment. It is really satisfying to see how ISCEx has grown from a small regional show to one of the 'must visit' events in the sound industry's calendar. My thanks to all who helped organise the event."
• For more on BEIRG, look out for your copy of the March issue of Lighting&Sound International magazine.
(Lee Baldock)
