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EM Acoustics Reference Series installed at new Western University venue

Western University - founded in 1878 in London, Ontario, Canada - recently crafted a special events space in the new Ronald D. Schmeichel Entrepreneurship and Innovation Centre (SEI). The multipurpose room was designed to host a wide variety of functions, ranging from keynote speeches to musical performances.

However, the room’s architecture, which features extensive concrete, glass and high ceilings, presented significant acoustic challenges. Western University’s Classroom Technology Group partnered with several experts in audio integration, ultimately selecting EM Acoustics’ Reference Series as its core solution. The choice of the Reference Series loudspeakers was made following an extensive evaluation that included Ease modelling of various systems from multiple manufacturers.

The system design centred on EM Acoustics’ Reference Series loudspeakers, including one R12 large-format 3-way precision passive loudspeaker at the centre of the cluster, flanked by two R10s. A compact S-18 reflex subwoofer was positioned behind the cluster for additional low-frequency support.

Two DQ10D 4-channel advanced system amplifiers power the setup, with one amplifier dedicated to the primary operation and the second serving as a backup, crucial for hosting live events. The system also employed EM Acoustics’ variable angle mounts and a custom rigging solution by DKE designed to attach securely to a heavily reinforced concrete beam above the event space.

The SEI building’s architectural features posed various challenges for the project. The space includes reflective surfaces such as glass and concrete, a high ceiling, and asymmetrical seating arrangements, all of which complicate audio design. Additionally, the placement of large LED displays and a central podium required the loudspeakers to be mounted above the displays due to limited placement options.

“Ease modelling helped calculate coverage requirements and addressed how to minimise excess energy on the nearby second-floor glass surface whilst still providing adequate coverage to seats on the floor below”, says Dieter Kunz, Design and Engineering Consultant at DKE. “The rigging solution was also critical, as the installation required custom mounting hardware to attach to the concrete structural beam containing embedded rebar.” A structural engineering firm reviewed and approved the designs to ensure safety and compliance.

“The engineering of the Reference Series waveguide options made it possible to create a compact cluster that met both the acoustic and aesthetic requirements”, adds Kunz. “The flexibility offered by providing two different interchangeable HF horns with two different coverage patterns was great to work with in conjunction with the Ease modelling.”

Chris Jordan, Manager and AV Systems Architect for the Classroom Technology Group at Western University, oversaw the project. He expressed his thanks to Dieter Kunz of DKE Engineering, Bill Coons of Contact Distribution, “the good folks” at One Diversified, Joel Theatrical, King Components, Malcom O’Brien of Arcon Electric, Cody Ruthman of University Machine Services, Hayman Construction, Dan Heald, Matt Vantfoort, Tyler Vollett, and the rest of his team in the Classroom Technology Group for their support. 

(Photos: EM Acoustics/Western University)

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