Ermelo, Netherlands-based Havo, a leading producer of clay, paint and modelling materials for the educational and hobbyist markets both under the premium Creall brand as well as a private label, recently upgraded its factory headquarters sound system in a project directed by integrator Quality AV utilizing Allen & Heath AHM-64 audio matrix processors and companion components.
“Havo’s factory is situated in a residential area with strict anti-noise pollution regulations in place,” explains Ronald Guliker, owner of Quality AV, which is also located in The Netherlands. “We wanted to implement a system capable of time-triggered events, automating changes to the maximum volume of the system at various times of the day. We also needed a system that could integrate with an existing network of Dante cabling and PoE amplifiers, the ability to run over 40 discrete zones throughout the facility, and of course simple endpoint control for Havo’s staff in the factory and offices.”
To meet current requirements while allowing headroom for expansion, the integrators opted for a pair of AHM-64 matrix processors to manage the audio requirements of the facility. “The AHM-64 was the logical choice thanks to the flexibility of the system, the Dante capabilities, ease of programming and deployment, plus the price-to-performance ratio,” Guliker says.
The 64 x 64 AHM-64 offers 12 x 12 local analo I/O that can be expanded via an ecosystem of remote expanders via an integrated SLink port. The onboard digital audio networking port can be fitted with a Dante card for 64 channels of Dante audio in and out of the system with DDM compatibility for more complex multi-domain enterprise scenarios.
More than Allen & Heath IP-1 remote controllers were deployed throughout the site for end user control. The IP-1 is a PoE-compatible programmable wallplate controller focused on ease of use with a color LCD screen for visual feedback. “For the users, the control has to be easy” Guliker notes. “The IP-1 is simply perfect for this; turn for volume, push-turn to change a radio station or source. That’s it.”
To adhere to the neighborhood’s strict noise regulations, Guliker utilized the AHM’s Scheduled Event feature to perform several automated changes to the system’s output volume throughout the day. “Automatic recalling of Presets on specific times and days allows for automatic level setting in the zones and configuration changes on the IP-1 controllers, setting different max levels for the user,” he says. “At the start of each working day the output level is unmuted and set to –20 dB at 05:30 before increasing to 0 dB at 08:30. In the evening, the volume is reduced by –10 dB at 21:00 before the entire system is muted at 23:00.
“With the automated volume changes crucial to meeting the noise regulations, the stability of the system is critical. I’m pleased to say that the system has been completely solid since the installation with no issues at all, and the staff are delighted with the ease of use. In short, everyone is happy.”
