Soundfield systems for schools.

About soundfield systems for teaching environments.

Sound field voice reinforcement systems provide mild amplification but need to be designed to optimise speech intelligibility. The Sound field system amplifies the wide natural dynamics of the human voice with minimal distortion.

Natural speech reproduction demands a wide frequency response throughout the entire transmission chain. The highest quality microphone, transmitter, receiver, and loudspeakers are essential to ensure that the full voice range, (especially the critical 16 consonant sounds), is reproduced. Soundfield Systems can use radio or infra-red transmission from a personal microphone worn by the teacher.

A suitable choice of speakers is critical to realize the full benefits of Sound Field amplification. Loudspeakers specifically designed for maximum speech intelligibility and uniform distribution of sound in classroom-sized spaces are necessary, (e.g. flat-panel loudspeakers using NXT technology).

To allow for multipurpose use, the systems can be fitted with input sockets for connecting audiovisual equipment such as a tape recorder, TV, laptop or interactive whiteboard (like SMART Board™). In addition it is possible to connect the personal FM system of a hearing impaired child or an induction loop system for hearing aid users.

Besides classroom use, the Soundfield system can be used during extracurricular activities, as an aid for a guest lecturer, or for amplification of audio-visual equipment and the principles apply to teaching spaces in primary or secondary school, corporate training centre, college or university.

More information

Building Bulletin 93 sets the Department for Education & Skills (DfES) legislative standards for the acoustics of new school buildings. For guidance notes on sound systems for teaching environments, visit the Government Teachernet website.

Here at Apple Sound, we design and install sound systems that are entirely fit-for-purpose rather than just sell you products. We provide complete solutions - treating poor room acoustics and installing the right sound system for your classroom, lecture theatre, sports or assembly hall. If you’re looking for an engineered solution to improve speech intelligibility in your teaching spaces then please contact us.