Microphone upgrade sees HKCEC move to Neumann
Published: ASIA
CHINA: The Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) has purchased a quantity of Neumann KM100 microphones in an upgrade to its facilities. The new mics have been described by Event Facility & Logistics manager Ekmanson Poon as offering ‘clarity of speech that we haven’t experienced before’.
Since opening in 1988, the HKCEC has enabled Hong Kong to establish its position as Asia's trade fair capital and a premier international convention and meeting location. The iconic building, located on the waterfront of Victoria Harbour, is owned by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (TDC) and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government. A team of over 920 ensure the smooth running of all operations in the facility, including 20 A/V technicians. This division oversees the dynamic audio and video requirements in the six exhibition halls, two multi-purpose ballroom-style convention halls, two theatres, 52 variously sized meeting rooms, two large foyers and other amenities.
Catering to various sized conferences and speeches forms a large part of the A/V requirements and the department decided to upgrade its inventory of podium microphones recently. ‘We had some concerns regarding microphone pops and mobile telephone interference,’ disclosed Mr Poon. ‘We looked at several manufacturers and ultimately opted for the Neumann KM100 to solve these problems.’
The KM 100 is 48V phantom powered and uses transformer-less output circuitry, offering high output capability and low self-noise, whilst providing clean sound, free of colouration. As with traditional transformers, common mode rejection is assured and the balanced output signal is protected against interference. With the HKCEC having ordered longer cable lengths, interference has now become a thing of the past as the microphone pre-amplifiers can now be concealed under the stage.
The entire microphone circuitry is on a single hybrid module measuring only 2cm² in area, built into the microphone capsule. As a result, the quality of the audio signal is never compromised when the capsule is detached from the output and mounted on a cable or a gooseneck. The modular construction of the capsule, which is screwed directly onto the output stage, lends itself to a wide range of applications.
‘We have acquired two microphone holders – the conventional MF3 and the shorter MF2,’ explained Mr Poon. ‘When speakers are using the MF2, the audience looks surprised as they can’t see the microphone, yet they are hearing clear, amplified speech.’
Sound Works Supplies provided the Neumann KM100 microphones to the HKCEC, but it isn’t the first time they have done business. ‘SWS supplied us with d&b audiotechnik E-Series speakers in 2004 and we have continued to add to our inventory since then,’ Mr Poon furthered. ‘We are currently in the process of acquiring T-Series models. We prefer to buy quality systems that sound good, are scalable and are reliable – d&b fits this category perfectly and we normally use them for high profile events. Unlike projectors, which many clients cannot afford, investments in speaker systems ultimately pay off. We usually replace equipment every five years, but we’re still using the E-Series series speakers seven years later.’