As a result, Van Strydonck decided that comprehensive acoustic measurement and tuning were in order for the theatre. "The quality of the PA is impeccable," says Van Strydonck. "But unfortunately the cabinet types were chosen for a specific design and it wasn't really covering everything. We needed 80 by 100 degrees of coverage and got 40 by 35 degrees of coverage."The venue's unique design factors further contributed to some unseemly acoustic issues. "It's an extremely special place," explains Van Strydonck about the theatre, which features a parabolic dome, an opposing parabolic floor, and a 27ft deep, million-gallon pool at its centre. "Aninteresting acoustic aspect are the two parabolic structures facing each other - the floor and the ceiling. The seating area isn't just a straight incline; it's actually curved. Add in all the water and humidity, and it's a very challenging acoustic environment."
Van Strydonck, with the assistance of another one of the Wynn's audio experts, Steve Weiss, used SIA-SMAART sound analysis software - recommended by SIA's Jamie Anderson - and a Lectrosonics TM400 wireless test and measurement system. "By carefully analyzing each section independently, we were able to apply the correct data and improve things dramatically."
The Lectrosonics TM400 test and measurement wireless system features compandor-free audio, 256 synthesized UHF frequencies, and a sturdy, all-metal construction. Its receiver provides a strong RF front-end, balanced XLR audio output, and a front-panel LCR graphic display for Lectrosonics' SmartTuning system of RF frequency selection.
"I was really amazed by the Lectrosonics system," explains Van Strydonck. "It's well made. It has no-nonsense operation. It's affordable, and Lectrosonics service is just beautiful. In all my time working with the company, there's not been one install that I've done when they haven't volunteered to come over and see what's happening. Buying Lectrosonics is like buying better support."
(Lee Baldock)
