The sophisticated new audio-visual systems feature the latest technology but have been designed by PEL to be easy to use. A Bose Professional Freespace 3 multi-zone, multi-floor sound system was installed, together with a Crestron control system for flexibility and ease of use. Each floor of the gallery can play different music, allowing the gallery space to be utilised to the maximum.
Music can be played via the five-disc CD player installed or using the iPod docking bay - simply drop an iPod into the unit and immediately play music throughout the system direct from it. In addition to the sound system, a 60" HD ready plasma screen has been installed in the reception area. This takes feeds from a variety of sources, including Sky Italia and HD.
The systems - as well as the LED lighting - are controlled using a Crestron system. A Crestron touch screen control unit is located in the offices on the third floor. Alternatively, the systems can be operated via the PCs in the gallery which have been installed by PEL with Crestron control software. Imago special assistant Riccardo Bigi explains the decision to install such a state of the art audio visual system: "As well as works of art, we show installations and some come with music. We also have parties here to launch events and multimedia presentations. We needed a good quality sound system."
PEL Services also took great care to ensure the integrity of the five-storey listed Victorian building. Its listed status meant that PEL had to carefully plan the wiring of the new systems to avoid damaging the fabric of the building, using existing apertures to put wiring through wherever possible and, in one instance, even lifting the floor to lay cabling beneath it.
(Lee Baldock)
