Advanced Audio Solution Enhances Historic World War II Codebreaking Site

Bletchley Park, the legendary World War II codebreaking site and museum, has further enhanced its visitor experience with the opening of the Fellowship Auditorium. Unveiled in October 2023, the purpose-built 250-seat venue is part of a broader site development that includes the Diesel House reception area, the Radley Room social space, and a new Learning Centre.

With a distinctive 180-degree radial seating arrangement, the auditorium posed unique acoustic challenges. L-Acoustics Certified Provider Adlib was awarded the contract to supply a tailored audio solution. Tim Robinson, System Designer at Adlib explains that speech intelligibility was paramount for this installation. “The unique configuration of the space, with seats arranged in a 180-degree arc around the stage, meant that crystal-clear speech reproduction was essential. As primarily a lecture venue, every seat needed perfect intelligibility.”

L-Acoustics Soundvision software played a crucial role in the system’s design, enabling Adlib to model and verify solutions while providing 3D visualisation tools for seamless collaboration with other trades. “Soundvision allowed us to communicate the design effectively to the client and other contractors, ensuring smooth integration within the space,” Robinson adds.

To achieve precise audio coverage, the installation features six horizontally arrayed L-Acoustics A10i Wide constant curvature enclosures, delivering seamless 180-degree coverage. Two KS21i compact subwoofers complement the system, while LA4X and LA2Xi amplified controllers provide precise control and optimal performance.

The fixed-curvature line source solution ensures even distribution of sound, mitigating reflections and supporting a balanced listening experience. The compact design of the A10i Wide enclosures, combined with adjustable HF pattern control and optional front screens, minimises visual impact while maximising acoustic performance.

Beyond lectures and presentations, the system has exceeded expectations in versatility. Its superior audio quality has prompted plans for a conference featuring live musical performances, proving its adaptability for a range of events.

The successful integration of L-Acoustics technology at Bletchley Park’s Fellowship Auditorium highlights how modern audio solutions can enhance historic venues while preserving their unique character. This installation sets a new benchmark for speech intelligibility and immersive sound in educational and cultural spaces, ensuring visitors fully engage with the site’s rich history and ongoing legacy.

About Bletchley Park

Bletchley Park is a vibrant heritage attraction and museum, open daily to visitors. It was the home of British World War Two codebreaking; a place where technological innovation and human endeavour came together to made ground-breaking achievements that have helped shape the world we live in today.

This unique site was previously a vast Victorian estate, where parts including the Mansion still survive, expanding during wartime to accommodate Codebreakers Huts and Blocks. During World War Two, the Government Code and Cypher School (GC&CS), now known as the Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ), was based at Bletchley Park.

It grew from a small team of specialists to a vast intelligence factory of thousands of dedicated women and men. This extraordinary combination of brilliant and determined people and innovative technology contributed significantly to Allied victory. In tough conditions, they provided vital intelligence and developed pioneering technological innovation that had a direct and profound influence on the outcome of the war.

The site continues to reveal secrets and tell fascinating stories of our national legacy.

Find out more here:

bletchleypark.org.uk