We provided acoustical and audio/visual design services to Maples Argo Architects for the renovation of the 500 seat Instructional Resource Centre Theatre #2. The original room design dates back to 1973 and was in need of upgrades as it is the flagship lecture theatre at UBC.

before the summer 2006 renovation

This was a comprehensive architectural upgrade that allowed an upgrade to the room acoustics and change in the AV system configuration to modernize its capabilities.

The reverberation time was shortened by 0.25 seconds which improves intelligibility of speech and helps reduce student generated noise. The room has a ceiling surface now, where it was an open and exposed structure with a very high ceiling surface. The upholstered seating was replaced to maintain the acoustical value of the seating. Additional wall and ceiling absorption helped tune the acoustical qualities of the room.

The AV system features a pair of rear screen video projectors for side by side dual images, plus a 3rd centre mounted rear screen projector for widescreen DVD film presentation. There are also two motorized drop down screens for conventional overhead projector use.

The lectern is equipped with a pair of document cameras to provide the electronic overflow display capability to other IRC theatres. There are XGA and C-video overflow feeds available for use in the other IRC theatres, routed through the AV Master Control Room.

The audio system is equipped with a DSP to provide all the audio processing, plus acoustic echo cancelling to allow this room to be interlinked to other IRC theatres or used for distance education. Full duplex interaction is possible which enhances the experience for overflow participants.

The speaker system has been split between a front system and rear system so that it is possible to achieve more uniform coverage front to rear without excessive levels above the lectern microphones.

The control system can be operated using the touch panel or remotely through e-Control so that the AV technicians can support much of the teaching from the Master Control Room, especially handy for visiting teachers.

after the summer 2006 renovation