Audio upgrade for Melbourne landmark

1 March 2007

Australia - Established in 1859, the GPO is a famous Melbourne landmark, transforming from postal hall to popular night spot and function centre in the 1990's. Managed by Robertson Hospitality Group, the GPO most recently underwent a comprehensive update of its audio systems, selecting Allen & Heath mixing products throughout.

"CEO Ian Robertson and music director Scott Thompson were looking for a premium quality audio system that could stay in the background visually, but be very much in the foreground acoustically," commented system designer and contractor Nathan Pugh of One Productions.

The GPO offers four key function areas, The Lexington, The Music Room, The Library and The Terrace. The Lexington makes use of the heritage architecture of the GPO building, with grand archways, 7-metre high ceilings, huge period windows, Swarovski crystal chandeliers, draped private enclaves, and art-deco furniture. On Level 2, the Music Room is a loft-style club, which also boasts two private function rooms.

One Productions selected an Allen & Heath iDR-8 DSP system to manage audio distribution to all four spaces, providing all rooms with their own audio feeds.

The Library is the GPO's new wine bar, while The Terrace comprises a conservatory and outdoor garden area overlooking Melbourne's skyline. An Allen & Heath GR05 analogue 4-zone installation mixer controls audio distribution to both these function areas, enabling staff to easily set up the rooms as separate areas or combined.

The GPO also has three Allen & Heath Xone:62 DJ mixers - one installed in the Lexington, another in The Music Room, and a third unit available for use in any of the other rooms.

(Jim Evans)