A conference is a great opportunity for industry professionals to connect, as well as learn about new developments in the sector. Conferences are known for large-scale speeches and addresses, during which individual speakers or panels have to communicate information to significant audiences. This might sound simple enough to do with a PA system, but in reality, the best events will often employ some specialist conference audio.
The event can only succeed if everyone in attendance can hear everything clearly, without struggling to make out individual words or straining their ears in general. This article will explore some of the most essential, effective audio solutions for conference rooms, ranging from distributed audio systems to more focused assisted listening devices.
Speaker placement for distributed sound
Projection is important in any form of public speaking, but you’d have to have a supersonic diaphragm to fill an entire conference room. The simplest (and laziest) approach is packing two speakers at the front of the stage, cranked up to the max so the front row gets blasted with deafening sound and the back struggles to hear.
If you’re going to use audio conference speakers, it’s wiser to distribute the sound with smaller ceiling speakers throughout the room. This allows for a lower volume along with better clarity.
Acoustic management
It’s also important to manage the acoustics of the space that you’re working with. Things like drapes, carpets and other fabrics can ensure that the audience is subject to annoying sound reflections.
Utilising assisted listening devices
Assistive listening devices are ideal for ensuring that everyone at the conference can hear the audio properly, even if they are hard of hearing. This isn’t just a practical decision, as it’s also essential for accessibility compliance regulations such as the UK Equality Act.
Assisted listening devices can include:
- Induction loops work with wire cables installed around the perimeter of the room, broadcasting the audio feed directly into attendees’ hearing aids or cochlear implants (with T-coil tech).
- Infrared systems use invisible light to send audio to line-of-sight wireless receivers with earpieces or neckloops. IR systems are highly secure, cutting out any potential for sound bleeding out.
This system is necessary for communicating with people who suffer from hearing problems, but it can also be useful for transmitting to large groups regardless of hearing ability.
Conference microphone selection
Choosing the right conference room microphones is also essential. The best transmitter in the world won’t save a speech if captured by poor-quality technology.
Headset and earset mics are generally considered the most effective choice, keeping the actual microphone a fixed distance from the mouth. This maintains a consistent volume throughout any sort of keynote presentation. Panellists should each be equipped with their own mic to allow for a smooth flow of conversation.
Learn more about audio solutions
If you’re interested in learning more about assisted listening devices and other conference audio solutions, visit TourGuide Systems today. Our extensive range of audio products can be applied everywhere from conference halls to outdoor tours, so you can keep your guests in the know, whatever the event.
For more guidance like this, check out our blog.