UNC Memorial Hall Achieves Maximum Audio Performance with Minimal Solution

RMB Audio recently deployed a unique Martin Audio MLA Mini solution at the University of North Carolina’s Memorial Hall to ensure consistent audio coverage with minimal impact on sightlines.

Built in 1885, the venerable Memorial Hall has undergone several renovations––most recently from 2002 through 2005––and has served as a premier venue for artists such as the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Tony Bennett, Itzhak Perlman, Joffrey Ballet, the Jazz at Lincoln Center with Wynton Marsalis and many others.

RMB Audio, who has provided audio for Memorial Hall for over a decade, first recommended Martin Audio MLA technology in 2014. For larger, more robust shows such as Buddy Guy, an MLA Compact system with DSX subs on the stage wings has been used to provide absolutely consistent coverage front to back and side to side with the understanding that audience sightlines are necessarily somewhat impacted.

A Martin Audio MLA Mini solution helps produce sound in the hall without taking up too much space.

For smaller, more intimate shows with lower SPL requirements, RMB Audio owner Cooper Cannady recently recommended a Martin Audio MLA Mini solution with two flown hangs consisting of 3 MSX power module subs and 12 Mini cabinets per side that doesn’t impact sightlines.

“We needed the same coverage, control and noise cancellation that we got from the MLA Compact system without the subs on the proscenium walls that cost us about 40 seats in terms of impacted sightlines,” says Cannady. “The coverage has to be perfect for everyone in the room because it involves high profile artists in a critical and intimate setting with only 1434 seats.

“With the MLA Mini, we have the MSX subs up in the air that work incredibly well and we also use 4 Martin Audio DD6’s for lip fills which sound great. We basically have a PA flying upstage with the performers, which is a challenge because of the possible noise issues. Only MLA technology could make it all work.”

“I was extremely pleased with mixing on the MLA Mini system,” says RMB Audio’s Roger Dennis. “It didn’t feel any different than MLA Compact with the same high level of responsiveness to nuanced level and EQ changes.”

Discussing the overall impact of MLA Mini in the hall, Cannady says, “We’ve already used the system successfully with distinguished artists such as the jazz pianist Fred Hersch and guitarist Julian Lage, Jason Moran, the Count Basie Orchestra and New York Voices, and vocalist Diane Schuur.

“MLA is the only technology on the market that allows multiple sonic goals to be prioritized and optimized. MLA Mini provides consistent coverage of the orchestra level and balcony seating while avoiding reflections from the balcony fascia. Ultimately, Memorial Hall management has requested that the MLA Mini be provided for all applicable future events and shows.”