qualified electronic technicians, carried on the rolls of the Architect of the Capitol. Placement of Microphones and Speakers 10 microphones, for speaking, would be installed as follows: 2 on the Rostrum (one for the Speaker; one for the Reading Clerk); 2 in the Democratic and Republican Wells, 6 at the Democratic and Republican Tables the same as at present. Loudspeakers, serving the positions of the Speaker, the Reading Clerk, the House Clerks, the Parliamentarian, the Sergeant at Arms, and the Official Reporters would be installed in their respective locations. Each seat on the Floor would be served by an individual loudspeaker installed in an enclosure mounted under the back of the chair, except in the front row where the loudspeakers would be installed inside the armrests. The audience in the Galleries would be served by 358 loudspeakers distributed at appropriate locations in the galleries. The Press Gallery would also be provided with loudspeakers. The microphones for the Speaker and the Reading Clerk would be provided with cut-off switches which would permit muting of the microphone by the user. All microphones used in the proposed system would have unidirectional pickup patterns. pickup from the direction in which the microphone is oriented, that is, from the direction of the person speaking, while minimizing pickup of ambient noises. All microphone positions will be provided with signal lights indicating the "live" condition of the microphone. Microphone cables, loudspeaker cables and signal wiring will be run concealed under the floor of the Chamber. Loudspeaker wiring for the loudspeakers in the Galleries will be run in surface-mounted conduit. The control position for the new system will remain unchanged from the existing position at the railing of the Public Gallery North. The control position will include a control panel with illuminated switches operating each of the microphone channels individually. Each microphone channel would be provided with an individual microphone preamplifier and mixing control. The system would include equalization to provide best intelligibility and best overall quality and naturalness of sound. The system would also include an automatic level control amplifier intended to assist the system's operator in maintaining a constant level of reinforcement. A breakdown of the estimated cost of the sound system follows: Breakdown of Estimated Cost of Sound System Professional services of acoustical consultants: For development and completion of design of the system, preparation of specifications for competitive procurement of major system components, and evaluation of bids received from prospective suppliers of system components.... .$ 8,000 For services during the installation of the system by government personnel, testing and adjusting the installation, and instructing government personnel in the operation of the system.... 7,000 Cost of system components, wiring materials, supplies, and miscellaneous devices, delivered to site. 75,000 Premium pay for overtime services by government personnel in making installation during other than regular working hours, in order not to disturb operations in the House Chamber.... 10,000 Miscellaneous and contingencies.... 3,500 Total Estimated Cost.... $ 105,000 Funding of Sound System Based on the above estimate submitted to the Committees on Appropriations in 1970, $105,000 was provided by the Congress in the Legislative Branch Appropriation Act, 1971 (Public Law 91-382, approved August 18, 1970), under the appropriation "Capitol Buildings, Architect of the Capitol." Deferment of Project In deference to the authority vested in your Commission in the Legislative Reorganization Act, approved October 26, 1970, as indicated in my letter to you of We have not used the $105,000 for other purposes but, at our request, the full amount has been continued available each year, the last legislation continuing the funds available until June 30, 1973. Recommendation Relating to Sound System If there is to be any prolonged delay in deciding upon other changes in the galleries, I recommend that your Commission concur in our proceeding with installation of the new sound system during the current fiscal year. We have been advised by the sound consultants that the sound system proposed would be adequate whether or not the glass barrier is installed and that modifications to sound system would not be substantial in the event it is decided later to install the glass enclosure. OTHER IMPROVED FACILITIES IN THE GALLERIES FOR VISITORS: We have not engaged in study of the other items mentioned in the Legislative Reorganization Act, but in accordance with your request, we have concentrated our efforts on the proposal to enclose the galleries and to improve the sound reinforcement system. I am enclosing sufficient copies of this report and the sketches so that a copy of each may be sent to each Member of your Commission. I appreciate your deep interest in these matters. Please be assured that I am ready to cooperate with you and your Commission |