The PA People were called in to supply and install the audio visual requirements of the campus including the auditorium where a JBL VRX PA system was chosen.
"There are three VRX932LAP speakers per side as well as a VRX918SP subwoofer per side," revealed Brett Steele, project manager for The PA People. "As the auditorium ceiling is quite low, the sub is mounted in behind the three VRX932 boxes to maintain as much height as possible. The client wanted a system that was quite punchy and the VRX certainly delivers."
Four JBL PRX612M speakers have been provided for use as stage monitors. A BSS Soundweb London BLU-100 signal processor is the central hub of the audio system, it manages signals through the system.
"We also installed a BSS BLU-10 programmable controller so that the college has a 'simple mode' for when the auditorium is used as a lecture space as opposed to hosting musical events," explained Brett. "The BLU-10 allows them to easily switch the system on and control a few inputs including the lectern microphone without the need of switching on the audio mixing console."
The lighting system utilises 24 channels of Jands WMX Dimmers. A Jands WM Patch handles the cabling out to the lighting bar outlets.
"We supplied an ETC Smartfade ML for lighting control as it was a cost effective and simple solution," added Brett. "They have quite a straightforward analogue lighting set up in the space for the day to day needs of the college. The Smartfade was ideal for this situation and has the ability to control intelligent lighting when they are brought in for particular special events."
SmartFade ML provides professional features like palettes, parameter 'fan' and built-in dynamic effects with an easy-to-learn direct-access style of operation. If required, it can operate up to twenty-four moving lights.
Jands Theatre Projects supplied drapes which are hung behind the stage to assist in improving the acoustics of the auditorium. These acoustic drapes are made of heavy duty, flame retardant fabric, specially designed and constructed to absorb sound.
"It's a very live room with a polished wooden floor, hard ceiling and hard walls," said Brett. "The drapes behind the stage, together with the acoustic panelling the college installed around the walls, have really helped with the sound absorption and control of reverberation."
(Jim Evans)
