Otaru University of Commerce Enhances Hybrid Lectures with Shure's MXA920 Ceiling Microphones

Customer Profile

Otaru University of Commerce, founded in 1910, has a rich history in providing high-quality education and contributing to the regional development of Hokkaido. In 2004, the university established a business school targeting working professionals. The need for remote and hybrid lectures increased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, making it crucial to improve the audio quality in lecture rooms.

Challenge

Otaru University of Commerce faced the challenge of improving audio quality for hybrid lectures at its Sapporo Satellite Campus. They needed a solution to deliver clear audio for both in-person and remote students. Their existing setup using PC cameras, handheld microphones, and speakerphones was insufficient, leading to frequent technical issues and poor audio quality. The demand for better remote learning solutions grew, especially with the integration of distant universities and the need to provide high-quality education.

MXA902 installed in a small classroom

Solution

The university decided to improve the audio setup by using Shure’s ceiling array microphones, specifically the MXA920, due to its exceptional performance. They conducted local demonstrations at the Sapporo Satellite Campus and were impressed with the results. Consequently, they installed the MXA920 in three lecture rooms of varying sizes. This setup allowed for flexible use of the rooms without needing to rearrange microphones for each class.

Large classroom for up to 60 people

Advantages

The installation of Shure's MXA920 microphones significantly improved the audio quality for hybrid lectures. Clear and intelligible audio was recorded effortlessly, enabling face-to-face-like experiences for remote participants. The microphones ensured that important presentations, such as business workshops, were captured with high clarity, benefiting the students' learning experience. The solution also allowed seamless integration with existing handheld microphones and speakers, enhancing the quality of both in-person and remote lectures. Shure’s support and the ease of equipment operation further contributed to the successful implementation, allowing instructors to deliver lectures naturally without technical distractions.

Two MXA920's installed in a large classroom

"Shure's ceiling array microphones are effortless; all you have to do is face the students and lecture as you normally would, and the audio is picked up clearly. Shure Japan also provided solid support, so I felt it was a solution that could be implemented with peace of mind."
Tomoyuki Hatamoto, Professor and Head of Entrepreneurship Department, Otaru University of Commerce Business School (Professional Graduate School) “”