Sennheiser AudioBeam is a directional loudspeaker that is able to focus sound like the light beam of a torch. Unlike conventional loudspeakers, which are only able to focus sound at high frequencies, AudioBeam emits sound as a lobe that can be precisely directed and is reflected by objects. AudioBeam works with ultra-sound, modulating the audible sound onto an ultrasonic carrier frequency, much like a radio station does, and then emitting this signal via 150 special piezoelectric pressure transducers. Audible sound is only generated at a distance from the AudioBeam, when the signal is demodulated because of the non-linearity of air. No sound is audible beside or behind an AudioBeam - you only hear the audio information if you are directly within the sound beam, or if the sound is reflected by a smooth surface - making AudioBeam an ideal tool for information terminals, exhibitions, or even conferences where various AudioBeams emit several languages to a defined part of the auditorium. AudioBeam will give explanations on an exhibit, which are only audible within a defined area. When mounted opposite an exhibit, the work of art will appear to 'talk' to the visitors, as the ultrasonic beam is reflected by smooth surfaces.
Sennheiser says its guidePORT system redefines the possibilities of audio tourguide, allowing visitors to choose their own route and timing through an attraction, exhibition or theme park as the system takes care of downloading and playback of recorded material as visitors moved between the pre-determined zones that trigger these events. Information can include recorded explanations, live commentary, lip-sync film soundtracks or other 'real-time' sound events. guidePORT can also be programmed for multiple commentary, for example different languages or levels of interest, and it can be quickly and simply re-configured by the operator, for example on different days or during periods of changing exhibits.
Sennheiser's new 1038 UHF TourGuide system uses the very latest in radio transmission technology to provide clear audio without interference, and can provide multiple-sources over a single frequency, to provide visitors different information as they move around an attraction, say the company. Separate frequencies can simultaneously provide alternative information, such as different languages, and transmission for each frequency can be from either recorded or live sources or any combination or the two.
Providing for disabled visitors is not only highly desirable for visitor centres but is also essential for compliance with the Disability Discrimination Act. Sennheiser's infrared systems can provide total coverage with the very highest quality audio for hearing impaired people, say the company.
(Lee Baldock)
