South African university opens on-campus cinema complete with AUDAC solution

AV Distribution designs and supplies a surround sound system to one of South Africa’s leading universities.

 

AV Distribution was recently appointed to design and supply an audio-visual solution for one of South Africa’s leading universities. The Media Communications and Culture Department planned to open its very own cinema with the School of Social Sciences, where students would be able to experience the work they directed and produced in a professional, immersive environment.

 

 

As part of a large-scale technology upgrade, the university had already enlisted audio-visual specialists, Digital Fabric, to specify a solution for the new cinema. The 18.5 metre by 8.5 metre venue is fitted with 140 sloped seats to be used for film and video screenings, as well as everyday lectures. Therefore, extra specification was needed for microphones, audio-visual presentations, and a central control system that could be easily operated by the university staff. “Our goal was to create an environment where students can view their own work with the same impact and quality sound found in professional theatres,” says Sagrys Fourie, Consultant for Digital Fabric.

With the intention of creating a Dolby Atmos 7.1.4-capable theatre, AV Distribution was appointed to supply and assist the design of this comprehensive system, while Ubuntu Technologies – the university’s integration partner – took care of installing the audio-visual solution.

 

 

“To maximise power and clarity throughout the theatre, we specified an AUDAC VEXO system,” explains AV Distribution’s Fred van der Merwe. “Three full-range AUDAC VEXO112 loudspeakers were deployed front of stage for direct audience coverage, while ten VEXO108 loudspeakers were installed along the side walls for a surround sound experience. An additional four VEXO108 loudspeakers were mounted to the ceiling for full coverage.” Low frequency was provided by two AUDAC BASO15 bass reflex subwoofers.

In the engine room, an AUDAC SMQ1250 quad-channel amplifier delivers 630W RMS to each stage front loudspeaker, while a second SMQ1250 is bridged to drive 2500W RMS to each subwoofer. Four SMQ500 amplifiers deliver 200W RMS to the surround loudspeakers. “Every amp has an AUDAC ANI44XT Dante card for a complete digital signal path,” van der Merwe continues. “After commissioning, the SPL measured at the Reference Listening Position was set at 85dB, with a maximum capability of 100dB.”

 

 

Along with the AUDAC sound system, AV Distribution and Digital Fabric also specified a Christie M 4K15+ RGB laser projector and a Da-Lite Cinema Contour screen with a HDPro1.1 perforated surface. “The projector showcases student work in 4K, providing an authentic cinema experience, while the ambient lighting is essential when the venue is used as a lecture theatre,” he adds.

“We were able to craft a system that truly elevates the learning and creative experience for Media Communications and Culture students,” notes Digital Fabric’s Sagrys Fourie, on the close collaboration with AV Distribution.

 

 

Installation partner, Ubuntu Technologies, was also impressed with the well-balanced system; “This space will allow students to fully immerse themselves in the work they have created,” says Operations, Technical & Project Manager, Johan Burger. “The products specified by AV Distribution were perfectly suited to the requirements, resulting in a venue that delivers professional-grade sound and visuals. Our installation teams were well-prepared and equipped with all the necessary resources to complete the installation in strict accordance with the client’s specifications.”

The collaboration between the three companies ensured that every aspect of the project was executed with precision. “It was a privilege for AV Distribution to be part of this project and work alongside Digital Fabric and Ubuntu to create a unique cinema solution for the university,” comments van der Merwe. “The AUDAC products selected deliver a powerful experience at an affordable cost. We believe this cinema will showcase the university’s drive towards creativity and teaching excellence.”