MAP: Multi-channel audio player

MAP was designed by Lawrence Harvey and implemented by Pete Brundle as a solution for presenting mixed audio examples for PhD submission.

The player was developed to solve the problem of how to present different types of audio examples for a PhD examination. The audio ranged from collections of short sound objects to eight channel compositions and simulations of a sound installation.

What was also needed was a flexible visual component for each audio example that could be easily linked to the text in the PhD. The idea was an examiner could read the printed copy provided and easily find audio examples using the platform.

The platform provided a way of different visual representations to be linked to the different examples.

In a presentation (lecture, tutorial, workshop, conference), stereo or multi-channel files may be required where unique visual materials accompany each audio example. To avoid swapping applications and risk issues on audio output while presenting, the principle is to have a single platform that can hold a mixture of examples and formats.

MAP provides:

• playback of mixed audio examples of 1-16 channels
• a cursor following playback with time readout
• method to use any visual with the audio example
• easy jumping between examples, especially useful comparing short sound examples.
• mute-unmute of channels
• menu for holding a bank of examples.