University College London

UCL Marshgate stands at the forefront of University College London’s East Campus in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, East London. Purpose-built as a centre for innovation, research, and creative industries, it houses state-of-the-art facilities that enable students and academics to push boundaries in education and media production. Working to CharcoalBlue’s specifications, Solotech delivered cutting-edge AV and studio lighting solutions across the media suites.

Blackbox

The Blackbox space was equipped with extensive AV infrastructure, including cabling, containment, and facility panels connected to equipment racks. Custom-made, height-adjustable AKA desks were installed to support flexible workflows. ETC Colorsource Dimmers power a range of lighting fixtures, including Prolight Eclipse and Aputure Nova, mounted on a dedicated grid, with control via an ETC Colorsource lighting desk. Audio systems feature EM Acoustics speakers and subs managed through a QSC Q-Sys platform with a touchscreen interface. Blackmagic URSA Mini Pro 4.6K G2 cameras and an AVID S1 audio console with a dock complete the professional setup.

Grading Suite

Designed for precision video grading, the Grading Suite includes local AV cabling and facility panels feeding into racks. A Q-Sys touchscreen provides room control, while Neumann speakers deliver high-quality audio monitoring. Blackmagic video tools, including the UltraStudio 4K Mini, work alongside a 65” LG colour-calibrated display, creating a streamlined space for high-end production.

Audio Recording Studio

The Audio Recording Studio combines seamless cabling and containment systems with exceptional audio playback and recording tools. Neumann speakers handle monitoring duties, paired with AVID S1 controllers, an AVID Dock, and iPad interfaces for system control. Mac Studio systems with 24” displays offer robust computing power, while a range of microphones from AKG, Audix, Neumann, and DPA—along with K&M stands and cables—provide versatility for recording sessions.

Post-Production Suites

The post-production suites are fitted with facility panels, racks, and local AV cabling. Each room includes Neumann speakers for accurate monitoring, as well as AVID S1 systems with docks and iPad control. Blackmagic video interfaces ensure smooth video editing workflows, enabling students to refine their work in a professional environment.

Dub Studio

The Dub Studio delivers professional-grade audio and video mastering capabilities. Cabling and containment connect to equipment racks housing key components such as DAD AX64 and MOM processors, along with PSI Audio active bass traps. Genelec and Neumann speakers deliver pristine sound, supported by an AVID S1, dock, and iPad for streamlined control. Wall-mounted 4K monitors provide comfort and primary mix displays, while an Apple Mac Mini runs the Dolby Atmos Mastering Suite. Blackmagic video tools complement the setup, with additional Shure, AKG, and Neumann microphones providing flexibility for recording.

Podcasting Suite

In the Podcasting Suite, a custom-built desk by AKA Consoles integrates all necessary equipment. Neumann speakers ensure crystal-clear audio monitoring, while Shure microphones, Beyerdynamic headphones, and a Focusrite Scarlett preamp with Klang Quelle headphone amplifiers provide high-quality sound capture and playback. An AVID S1, dock, and iPad offer intuitive control, ensuring a smooth workflow for podcast production.

Projection and Screening Rooms

Two screening rooms were installed to provide students with exceptional playback and viewing facilities. The smaller room features an Epson DLP projector paired with a custom screen, supported by an EM Acoustics LCR audio system with subs. In the larger screening room, a Barco cinema projector, media server, and Dolby processor create a high-end cinema experience. A 7.1 QSC surround sound system delivers powerful, immersive audio, while Williams IR assistive listening systems ensure accessibility. QSC Q-Sys control systems, with touchscreens located in the rooms and control spaces, allow seamless operation.

UCL Marshgate’s media facilities offer an unparalleled environment for content creation, combining professional-grade technology with innovative design to empower students and staff in their creative and academic pursuits.