A Self-contained Sound-recording Van
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THE accompanying illustrations are of an interesting streamlined soundrecording van, having a Commer N3 forward-control (12-ft. 9-irr. wheelbase) chassis as its foundation, which has recently been supplied to R.C.A. Photoplione, Ltd., by Gurney and Ewer, Ltd., Ruislip, Middlesex, which designed and built the bodywork in conjunction with the R.C.A. company.
• • Of modern appearance and designed for both exterior location work and studio operation, the van is a completely self-contained unit and carries all the necessary recording and power equipment. The forward-control type of chassis provides ample scope for a well-planned body layout, there being no fewer than four entirely separate sections:
In the driver's compaitment there is an electric generator driven direct off the Commer engine and used for charging the accumulators which operate the recording equipment. Immediately be
'hind the driver is the monitor room— with an entrance on the near side— containing a portable " mixer " console, which can readily be removed and placed on the set to enable the operator to view the action while recording,. as well as microphones, camera-motors, spare parts, etc.
Behind the monitor room is the recording room itself, which is constructed so that it can also be used as a dark room. All the power equipment on the van is controlled from a panel in this compartment. Reached through a door at the rear of the van is the fourth section, in which all the power apparatus, cables, etc., are carried. The accumulators are housed in lockers located between the front and back wheels on each side .af the vehicle.
Although equipped with its own independent power supply, the van is designed to operate off the studio system when in use for interior work, whilst 'provision is also made for recharging the accumulators from any external A.C. mains supply, if required. The walls and roof of the body are effectively sound-proofed.
Well finished, both inside and out