Wednesday, 10 April 2002
A portable sound level meter from Hampshire firm Testo has provided a simple solution to PA volume problems at Reading FC's home ground - the Madejski Stadium. At the start of the 2001/2002 football season, Reading FC received complaints from supporters regarding the PA system in certain parts of the ground. While some supporters commented on the excessive volume, others complained that it could not be heard.
The Club decided to acquire a reliable and accurate sound meter so that operations manager Jeff Adams could measure the volume in specific areas of the stadium and balance the sound levels uniformly. Portability, accuracy and ease of use were essential requirements, all met by the testo 815.This is a compact hand-held sound level meter, weighing just 170g. It features an attachable microphone to avoid measurement errors, digital noise suppression to ensure accuracy and easy calibration via buttons. Jeff Adams comments: "Since adjusting the volumes in concert with the sound meter we have received no further complaints."
(Ruth Rossington)