Working closely with its sister acoustic consultancy Apple Dynamic, headed by Dr Paul Darlington, Apple Sound designed a system that would counter the massive acoustic challenges (and satisfy the installation restrictions) presented by the cathedral-like, Grade 1 listed Minster. The system had to be visually diminutive and very easy to operate.
Following an in-depth RASTI acoustic analysis, it was apparent that intelligibility was the key factor as the enormous vaulted ceilings are notorious for problems caused by reflected sound paths. The systems control mechanism specified by Apple relied exclusively on Biamp's Audia - a revolutionary digital platform and Cue's touch screen system - both supplied by sole UK distributor beyerdynamic.
Apple's systems designer Tim Brown collaborated with beyerdynamic's Jon Stanley, who also played a pivotal role in the complex installation. Stanley commented: "We wrote programming code to interface Audia to Cue, allowing us to accommodate their requirements through software re-writes and up-dates. The resultant system is not only hugely intuitive, but is very easy to operate by non-technical users. The system comprises two Audia C88 DSP 8x8 matrix systems linked via Cobranet, configured on a single PC screen and downloaded into Audia - which combines numerous audio components (EQ, dynamics, matrixing, delay, speaker protection limiting, crossovers, level control) in a single 2U unit."
Tim Brown explained: "As a design tool, Audia is very powerful with huge flexibility. It boasts a tremendous DSP capacity and above all it sounds superb. As a new technology it provided the ideal solution, meeting the client's requirements for 'minimum visual impact and maximum intelligibility'. The discrete nature of the installation and its apparent simplicity does not reflect the complexity, skill and sheer man hours that have contributed to its success."
The Cue system was programmed on a fail-safe basis with its intuitive touch screen button layout. The touch screen is the only control mechanism within the system and has been positively received by the vicar: the Rev Canon David Bailey. He enthused: "The system is amazing! We are delighted with the work that Apple Sound have put into this. They have understood our requirements completely and been very generous with their time."
To address the inherent acoustic challenges, Apple specified an Axis Intellivox loudspeaker system from Netherlands-based Duran Audio. Boasting computer-controlled directivity, the system offers minimal levels of reflected sound. Controlled and managed through Audia, it provides exceptional clarity, natural speech projection, even dispersion and sonic excellence. Beverley Minster, one of the largest Grade 1 listed churches in Europe, boasts a vivid history dating back to the Norman Conquest. Coincidentally, it is dedicated to St John, who amongst a plethora of good work had healed a deaf and dumb child in the early 700s.
(Sarah Rushton-Read)
