You could say that Yamaha live sound technology and Yamaha processors saved the Preston Guild Hall & Charter Theatre complex.
The establishment was once an essential stop on any band’s UK tour, but its prominence has largely faded into history. That’s because as recently as 2014, the site was earmarked for demolition.
The new owners decided against demolition and instead put the building under an extensive refurbishment, which included a major upgrade of the AV system utilizing Yamaha processors and control.
The project covers the 2034-capacity Preston Guild Hall ‘Grand Hall,’ 780-capacity Charter Theatre, and a range of restaurants and other facilities.
Using Yamaha Live Sound Tech for Multiple Zones
In the most recent phase, Autograph Sales & Installations was asked to supply an unobtrusive but powerful multi-zone audio system for Level, a facility providing a wide range of entertainment and activities, including a multi-screen sports bar and nightclub. [related]
Autograph’s Ben Tredwell worked closely with the Preston Guild Hall technical manager James Hubbard, who was clear from the start that he wanted a Yamaha-based infrastructure and front end.
“I transitioned from the analogue to digital world using Yamaha products and, because the company has kept its software similar throughout its pro audio ranges, I have always tried to use Yamaha products, both live and in fixed installations. They are easy to understand, intuitive and have a very logical flow,” he says.
Yamaha Processors Work with Dante
“We also wanted the ability to link the systems via Dante. Yamaha products integrate extremely well and we don’t have the time or need to learn new software for alternative control,” says Tredwell.
The new phase of the project features two of Yamaha’s new PGM1 zone paging microphones, MRX7-D matrix Yamaha processors and DCH8 digital controller hub. Control is provided by two DCP4V4S and two DCP1V4S digital panels, as well as ProVisionaire Touch iPad remote control software.
“With ProVisionaire Touch and the new Dante-compatible paging mics, it made sense to use the MRX7-D, which allows each zone to select any input on the system. The inputs include two Sky boxes, two audio sources (streamed and local), two Bluetooth inputs (one behind the bar and another in the VIP area), local DJ input and a link to the cocktail bar, allowing a single DJ to play across two sites and three levels of the second site,” says James.
“The MRX7-D allowed us to re-sync and time align audio to two large-format video walls and smaller satellite screens, as well as to individually EQ and limit each output. The Yamaha live sound software also allows us to set maximum levels on the controls for different parts of the building – a real must once an install is handed over to enthusiastic staff!”
This story premiered on our sister publication, CI Europe.
