Among the UK’s largest independent pub companies, Amber Taverns operates a network of more than 160 outlets across the North of England, Scotland and Wales. The North Star in North Shields is one of the latest additions to the chain, opening in late 2023 following a major renovation including a complete A/V overhaul.
Overseeing all aspects of the A/V specification and installation, Bolton-based TVC Technology Solutions provided the A/V package, including 4K LED Hospitality TVs, signal distribution systems to mirror programming delivered to other pubs across their current catchment area, and an Optimal Audio loudspeaker and control system.
The installation includes Optimal Audio’s Cuboid 8 two-way, full-range passive loudspeaker and Sub 15 high-power sub-bass cabinet. Given the North Star’s lively environment – the venue offers a full BT and Sky Sports entertainment – the Sub 15 is called on to deliver 135dB during busier periods.
Chosen for their robustness as well as sonic performance, the compact Cuboid and Sub speakers’ plywood cabinets are fitted with steel grilles. They are managed from a ZonePad 4 Wall Controller, which offers touch control of up to four zones via six programmable presets. The easy-to-operate ZonePad is supported at the North Star by Optimal Audio’s WebApp, which staff access via iPad. WebApp’s cross platform design offers a simple and intuitive user interface for non-professional A/V staff set EQ, routing, ducking and limiting where required.
‘The three main reasons we chose Optimal Audio for the North Star Tavern and for many of our other projects are ease of installation, commissioning and usability by staff, the range of options on the Z8P Controller for control, DSP and routing and the flexibility of control from the unit, wall panels and app,’ says TVC Technical AV Manager, Tiago Borges. ‘The fact that the Optimal Audio app is constantly updated is another factor. We’re seeing regular updates, modifications and new features geared to the needs of integrators and end-users, which is very welcome.
‘Our main goal is to provide a solution to the client that works, gives great results and offers simplicity of use at the same time,’ he adds. ‘And Optimal Audio is allowing us to do exactly that.’
More: https://optimal-audio.co.uk/products/loudspeakers/cuboid
