As the sole integrator for Reading University, Snelling has consolidated the A/V systems and standardised on Shure and QSC for audio, and adopted Dante networking for its G10 Theatre.

The University was previously using a mix of analogue equipment and was limited in frequency choice due to interference from other channels and external factors. These limitations were compounded by the high level of maintenance and licence management required. In response, Snelling worked alongside the Shure UK Systems Group to provide a scalable and resilient networked audio system comprised of Shure ULX-D Digital Wireless System, QSC DCA cinema amplifiers and loudspeakers from the DCS, SR and SB cinema ranges. The result is a high-spec and flexible system controlled by Q-Sys, QSC’s Digital Signal Processing platform, that can deliver up to 7.1-channel surround sound in the auditorium.

The Shure ULX-D Digital Wireless System was chosen for its audio quality and features such as rechargeable stations, digital encryption, the ability to increase wireless microphone channel count in High Density mode and IT friendly features. Shure Wireless Workbench 6 System Control Software allows for remote monitoring and management across the estate. A Shure SCM820 Digital IntelliMix Automatic Mixer is also used to improve the audio quality for speech applications.

The audio infrastructure installed in G10 not only gives Reading a future-proof system via I/O expansion, but also meets their requirement to provide a user friendly and intuitive GUI for in-house IT technicians. This is in addition to comprehensive features for patching and routing of multiple I/O’s that can be controlled via iPad or a digital mixing desk, with IP streaming provided via Dante. The system is remotely monitored via the Crestron Fusion RV control platform, in addition to providing audio feeds for screenings at the Reading Film Theatre.

‘Careful consideration was taken at the system design stage to ensure the best technology was chosen from proven industry partners, as such Shure and QSC feature as the main audio provider,’ says Snelling Sales Director, Steve Royans. ‘The Shure UK team continue to exceed themselves for pre- and post-sales support. During the project Wireless Workbench allowed for microphone channel allocation, reducing time at commissioning stage, and Shure’s UK System Group assisted with the commissioning of the system, as it had to provide approved feeds into the Dolby certified processor.’