Responding to a specification drawn up by consultants, Arup - to supply and fit sound and communication, lighting and staging systems in the 850-capacity nightclub/live venue - they constructed their digital routing network around BSS Audio Soundweb London components, before turning to sister company Soundcraft's digital VI platform for the main FOH and monitor mixing consoles.
Named after an alumnus who made a sizeable donation towards the £24m development cost, the building itself was designed by Irish architects Sheila O'Donnell and John Tuomey (O'Donnell + Tuomey).
Set on seven storeys above ground and two high storeys below, it contains a nightclub, gym, bar, cafe, multi-faith prayer rooms, broadcasting station, dance studio, careers advice and student union offices - all within the polygonal site.
Working alongside main contractors, Osborne, LSI Projects were responsible for fitting out the basement nightclub to a high specification. They chose the BSS Audio Soundweb London platform having worked with it successfully many times in the past. Said project manager Ian Thomas, "We know its capabilities and know whatever situation is thrown at the system it can deliver."
LSI Projects then turned to the main mixing platform, specifying two Soundcraft Vi6's (connected via MADI to a Vi Stagebox to mix the music from the point source PA system).
One Vi6 is used at FOH and the other for monitors, and since the Student Union contains a radio station as part of the building they will be able to use the MADI link for broadcast/record purposes should the need arise.
In conclusion, Nick Minshull, LSE Students' Union bar and catering manager, said, "The Soundcraft mixing desk has allowed us to open a wider range of entertainment, appealing to the diverse student body we have here at The London School Of Economics Students' Union."
(Jim Evans)
