The Aalen University of Applied Sciences in Germany knows better. The clearer the sound of a presentation or a lecture can be understood, the easier the mind will follow. So, unhampered understanding and pleasurable sound quality are vital factors for conceiving and memorizing content. Thus, investing in a good sound system would instantly benefit student's learning success.
In 2013, when some of the University's auditoriums needed audio systems, Klartext-Gruppe offered and installed a technically advanced system design, well within budget, that utilised Lab.gruppen's new LUCIA amplifiers to great effect.
The two-channel LUCIA (Localized Utility Compact Intelligent Amplification) is an extremely compact and versatile Energy Star compliant Class D platform, perfect for low cost, low hassle commercial installations such as boardrooms, retail outlets and classrooms, just like the smaller scale auditoriums at Aalen University. Combining innovative low-impedance electronics with cutting edge processing from the world of high-end broadcast audio, LUCIA delivers consistently great sound at any listening level, so perfect for an educational environment such as Aalen University.
The LUCIA M model variants include ADLC (Automatic Dynamic Loudness Contouring) which provides a "fuller" and more comfortable listening experience - especially at low perceived levels. Dynamic processing automatically "eases off" at higher SPL so that the system maintains a consistent full bandwidth sound with full impact at all levels. 'M' models also benefit from additional DSP functionality and 4 x 4 mix matrix. LUCIA is also Energy Star qualified with Auto On/Off Scheme, which presents an energy cost saving for the university over time and has less of an environmental impact through life.
Jörg Mitschele, manager of Klartext, said: "LUCIA was chosen for a number of reasons. It's compact, but doesn't compromise in sound quality, and the built-in DSP feature is a wonderful tool to have during set up. Since we didn't need a lot of power, the LUCIA 120/2M was ideal as it offers a robust 2×60 watts out of a small unit, its DSP possibilities providing equalisation as well. The small unit is mounted hidden behind a blind cover so the user cannot reach its controls (and does not need to)."
The sound is provided by two Tannoy VX 5.2 loudspeakers which are mounted at the top of the front wall. Since Lab.gruppen and Tannoy are part of the TC Group, it means that LUCIA offers optimised performance for all Tannoy loudspeakers, their natural sound rendering perfectly matching the high quality of the sources and electronics, and meaning this compact and cost effective system delivers the finest sound from first to last row.
(Jim Evans)