With so many passengers to take care of, it's important that any announcements made to the public are both clear and concise and can be heard by everyone who needs to hear it, whether it is travel information or emergency information being issued.
Traditional transport hub structures and building materials meant that this station suffered from poor intelligibility, with the reflective surfaces such as marble and glass causing high reverberation times. However, passengers are now enjoying crystal clear audio thanks to a recently completed overhaul of the audio system, which included installation of Tannoy's new VLS Series. The major upgrade to the PA system was handled by Glasgow-based TG Baker who were brought in by main contractor NG Bailey Rail for the design and commissioning phase. The project was funded by Network Rail.
"We've used Tannoy's QFlex digital beam steering range at other transport projects in the UK, including a major installation at Glasgow Central, but this is the first time we have utilised the technology available in the new passive column range," said Brian Andrew, head of TG Baker's Railway Division.
"The VLS was a perfect solution for the space, as it fitted in with the overall architecture and allowed us to use the existing structure to hang the loudspeakers. It also provided the audio coverage that was essential for a busy transport hub like Waterloo. Both the styling and audio quality of VLS Series fits very well with the recently built prestigious retail balcony and the high end stores that it contains. The VLS loudspeakers, once commissioned, provide the balcony area with the same quality and coverage as that of the active 'intelligent' loudspeakers that cover the main concourse area."
(Jim Evans)
