The two performing arts halls at the new Auditorio de Lugo (in the historic Galician city of Lugo, Spain) are equipped with advanced communication capabilities due to an RTS 32-port ODIN OMNEO digital intercom matrix implemented by systems integrator Chemtrol.
The large cultural complex covers more than 15,000 square meters, built to host a variety of events that include concerts, ballets, theatrical productions, conferences and presentations. As such, the venue is divided into a variety of spaces, including the two performing arts halls (an auditorium with 900 seats and a theater with a 300-person capacity), an exhibition and congress area, a music school, a media library, a projection room, eight training rooms, a commercial area, a restaurant, an office area and underground parking.
The ODIN intercom matrix helps ensure clear communication between the 20 intercom stations in the various spaces is an ODIN intercom matrix. Chemtrol opted for the 32-port option that also provided the ability to expand the system up to 128 ports within the single 1RU device. With the audio system for the entire venue running over a Dante network, Chemtrol elected to use ODIN’s ability to communicate with Dante audio via the built-in OMNEO IP architecture to connect the intercom system to the wider network. This allows simpler communication between the front-of-house gallery position in either hall with their RTS DKP-3016 desktop keypanels and the wings that have a rack-mounted KP-3016 keypanel for both performance spaces.
In addition, a classic partyline intercom installation which has been deployed in both halls, and it is backwards-compatible in connecting to the main ODIN intercom. A PS-20 two-wire intercom power supply drives the partyline while BP-4000 single-channel universal beltpack headset stations are called on by the users.
In addition to these fixed points, the venue also invested in a ROAMEO DECT-based wireless intercom system for mobile users, including AP-1800 access points and TR-1800 beltpacks. The venue has six wireless stations that connect back into the digital audio network and allow clear communications between many users across the whole venue.
The ability of ODIN’s OMNEO networking to communicate with Dante audio devices formed another key element of its selection. Further, ODIN’s four-wire connectivity will allow integration with more traditional broadcast intercom systems while its RVON IP connectivity will accommodate connectivity over greater distances if required.
The integration project itself presented several challenges. With the construction of the building completed long before any decision was made on the AV equipment to be installed, Chemtrol worked to retrofit its design without damaging the finished look of the venue. The integrator also wanted to create a powerful infrastructure that used the latest technology and could adapt to future innovations. This led to the creation of a dense network of Cat-6 data cabling and OM3 fiber optics. ODIN fit with this concept due to its connectivity options and its future-looking design for evolving systems.
