audio design for boardrooms
Some tips on how to install audio for a corporate space.
Loudspeakers:
Two systems can be used. One zone for the incoming video and voice conference sound only. This can be configured in mono, as a line of loudspeakers above the table pointing at the seating positions. This zone can be 70/100V line speaker system which allows for future flexibility of the set up. None of the speakers should need to run at a high volume as they are so close to the attendees.
The second set of speakers can be stereo with each speaker either side of the screen. This is ideal for programme audio for presentations eminating from the visual end of the room.
If high quality amplifiers, cable and speakers are installed then they will not have to be played at high volumes to be appreciated.
Avoiding high volumes reduces listener and meeting fatigue, plus it reduces the amount of processing required to remove echo in the audio.
Microphones:
The microphones along the table, in most instances are only routed to the far end in a call i.e. your team in NY. They are not amplified in the near end (i.e. here in London) through our ceiling or wall speakers. Microphones should be set up as close to the mouths of the attendees as possible to minimise room noise. Table mounted is better than ceiling for example. Also with the rejection point of the pick up pattern facing towards the loudspeakers if possible. This helps to reduce echo for the far end attendees and increase clarity.
Choose the best microphones that you can to benefit the far end and for a succesful video or conference call.
Digital Signal Processor:
The DSP is the heart of the audio routing and control in the meeting room system. The quality of the microphone pre-amps and output stages, plus audio processing will effect the overall performance and experience for the client. Carefully select the products from microphone, to DSP, to speakers to achieve a balanced excellent sounding system.
A good DSP will have individual Acoustic Echo Cancellation (AEC) available for all mic channels. Plus other features such as Auto Mic Mixing and Noise Suppression.
