This was installed across 15 zones, each with its own autonomy, by MGA Communication Ltd, and features well over 200 application-specific loudspeakers from RCF to meet all audio and PA/VA requirements. These are driven either by low-impedance HPS1500 amps with PR4092 preamps or 100V line UP2162 (160W) or UP2321 (320W) 100V line amps with ES3160'combi' mixer amps - all in dedicated local racks.
Managing director, Gerald McKeown said that the system was complex, but is designed to provide high-end sound broadcast throughout both internal and external areas, with user flexibility and ease of operation.
The speakers are fed from a central distribution hub, based around RCF's powerful DXT7000 management system, from which two further pools, health and fitness suites, multi-discipline sports hall, squash courts, crèche, function rooms and cafeteria all receive distributed sound. Three external 3G synthetic training pitches are served by local IP67 rated cabinets, heat and environmentally protected, to contain the RCF amps, receivers and CD preamps.
Built with the aid of the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure (DCAL), the new leisure complex was formally opened at the end of March.
MGA had been introduced to the project by JCP Consulting whose senior electrical engineer, Ivan Humphries had detailed the project requirement and the system parameters required. The 20-year old integration company, based ten miles south of Belfast, won a competitive tender and also provided IPTV / Video Wall and IP telephony in addition to the RCF solution.
"We needed qualitative and flexible sound reinforcement throughout the building, and if there was a single portfolio I could draw on, so much the better," McKeown rationalised.
All communication systems deployed throughout the complex were under the control of the project director, Aaron McKeown, who attended many meetings to ensure that issues were resolved, while the company's senior site engineer likewise ensured that installation was carried out seamlessly to a high standard.
(Jim Evans)
