ACTIVE PRESS UNITS
An active press mult is really a distribution amplifier (DA) with specialized features geared toward press conferencing.
It has the advantage of being entirely self contained and should operate on AC or battery power.
A basic unit will have a single mic input, several mic outputs and one or two line outputs for attaching passive press mult boxes as expanders.
It will usually have an input level control with signal/clip LEDs, phantom power select and headphone monitor.
More elaborate units might have dual redundant mic inputs, a tone generator, signal meters, outputs that are selectable for mic or line and automatic power switching – that is, if AC fails, the unit will switch seamlessly to battery backup.
When the outputs are mic/Iine selectable, each user has the choice of receiving mic or line signal or outputs can be set to line level to be used for attaching passive expanders.
PROCEDURES AND WHAT TO EXPECT
You will—of course—need to locate your press mult (and mixer if necessary) in a location that is accessible to those plugging in, usually at or near the podium. It helps if that’s an open area nearby that gives convenient access for the press.
Often, the press will use wireless “cubes” like the Lectrosonics plug-in transmitters. If possible, locate the press mult where it gives line of sight to the coverage area and avoids obstructions and obvious sources of RF interference.
These transmitters also use up more area around them than standard mic cables so make sure that your press mult’s connectors are spaced far enough apart to accommodate these popular units side by side.
Once you’re set up, send tone to the press mult at +4 dB. This will output a usable mic level signal on your press mult and the press can adjust their devices accordingly. Although most of the press folks are old hands at this and carry adapters to go from balanced XLR into whatever device they have, be prepared. You will inevitably encounter someone that is new to this or forgot cables or adapters and will come to you for help, so keep a black bag of various adapters and cables handy.
CUSTOM INSTALLS
Remember that you are not always limited to providing or encountering off the shelf units. Some government buildings, public utilities, airports, etc. utilize large format systems as permanent installs with or without ancillary portable units.
Some buildings might even have a press system built into the outside wall. Kept behind lockable doors, it’s always ready when a conference is held outside “on the steps.” Feeds are then readily available not only to reporters, but also to broadcast trucks parked on the street.
GET THE NEWS
Don’t miss out! The ability to provide press feeds can seal the deal when you’re into political or corporate sound work or if you want to realize an additional source of rental income. Keep a press mult handy… you never know when the president might stop by!
AI Keltz is general manager at Whirlwind.