The News: Shure, a global leader in audio equipment, has unveiled the Microflex Advance MXA902 Integrated Conferencing Ceiling Array. This groundbreaking device combines an array microphone, loudspeaker, and IntelliMix DSP, delivering superior audio quality and streamlined deployment for small and medium-sized meeting rooms. The MXA902 extends Shure’s Microflex Ecosystem portfolio, providing a comprehensive audio solution with minimal setup requirements. See the complete Press Release from Shure here.
Shure Introduces MXA902 Integrated Conferencing Ceiling Array, Revolutionizing Audio Solutions for Meeting Rooms
Analyst Take: Enhancing Collaboration with MXA902 Integrated Conferencing Ceiling Array
The introduction of Shure’s MXA902 Integrated Conferencing Ceiling Array represents a significant advancement in audio solutions for modern meeting rooms. This all-in-one device, comprising an array microphone, loudspeaker, and IntelliMix DSP, offers a transformative conferencing experience.
I had a chance to see this solution firsthand at Infocomm 2023 in Orlando, Florida. Let’s delve into the key features and benefits of the MXA902 that caught my attention during this hands-on demo.
Optimized Audio Capture and Reproduction
At the heart of the MXA902 is a state-of-the-art array microphone that excels at directional voice capture. By eliminating the need for external microphones or extensions, the MXA902 simplifies setup and ensures accurate voice reproduction for all meeting participants. Additionally, the integrated wide-dispersion loudspeaker enhances the audio quality, delivering a natural and clear far-end speech. This combination of superior voice capture and reproduction creates an immersive environment for effective collaboration.
Seamless Setup and Intelligent Control
Shure understands the importance of simplicity and efficiency in conference room setups. The MXA902 is designed to be easily configured out of the box, minimizing installation time and effort. Thanks to the Single Zone Automatic Coverage Technology, the MXA902 automatically captures talkers’ voices and reduces background noise, ensuring optimal sound capture and listening within a 20′ x 20′ space. This intelligent feature fosters a balanced meeting environment where all participants can be heard clearly.
Pristine Audio Mix with IntelliMix DSP
The MXA902 integrates Shure’s IntelliMix DSP, which adds another layer of excellence to the conferencing experience. With features such as Automatic Gain Control, Acoustic Echo Cancellation, Noise Reduction, and Automatic Mixing, the MXA902 ensures a pristine audio mix. These advanced DSP capabilities enhance clarity, reduce echo and background noise, and deliver balanced sound for both in-room and remote participants. The MXA902 exemplifies Shure’s commitment to providing exceptional audio quality.
Security and Design Excellence
Addressing the concerns of organizations regarding audio confidentiality, Shure has incorporated Shure Audio Encryption into the MXA902. This industry-leading encryption technology ensures that audio content remains protected within the Shure Microflex Ecosystem, offering peace of mind for sensitive discussions and confidential meetings.
Moreover, the MXA902 features a modern and sleek design that seamlessly blends with various architectural styles. It is compatible with MXA900 series accessory kits, providing a flexible mounting system suitable for different ceiling types, simplifying the installation process while maintaining aesthetics.
Looking Ahead: This product makes premium audio available in smaller to mid-size rooms and is a win for IT administrators and end users alike.
As businesses continue to embrace hybrid work models, the demand for reliable and efficient conferencing solutions is paramount. Shure’s MXA902 Integrated Conferencing Ceiling Array addresses this need by providing a comprehensive audio solution that transforms meeting rooms into collaborative spaces. With its advanced features, simplified setup, and superior sound quality, the MXA902 sets a new standard for conferencing audio solutions.
Disclosure: The Futurum Group is a research and advisory firm that engages or has engaged in research, analysis, and advisory services with many technology companies, including those mentioned in this article. The author does not hold any equity positions with any company mentioned in this article.
Analysis and opinions expressed herein are specific to the analyst individually and data and other information that might have been provided for validation, not those of The Futurum Group as a whole.
Other insights from The Futurum Group:
Wainhouse Live! from InfoComm 2023 with Shure’s Jim Schanz
Qualcomm Gives Communications Hardware Vendors a Powerful Foundation for AI-Based Experiences
Zoom Huddles: A Modern Communication Experience for the Hybrid Workplace
Author Information
As Practice Lead - Workplace Collaboration, Craig focuses on developing research, publications and insights that clarify how the workforce, the workplace, and the workflows enable group collaboration and communication. He provides research and analysis related to market sizing and forecasts, product and service evaluations, market trends, and end-user and buyer expectations. In addition to following the technology, Craig also studies the human elements of work - organizing his findings into the workforce, the workplace, and the workflows – and charting how these variables influence technologies and business strategies.
Prior to joining Wainhouse, now a part of The Futurum Group, Craig brings twenty years of experience in leadership roles related to P&L management, product development, strategic planning, and business development of security, SaaS, and unified communication offerings. Craig's experience includes positions at Poly, Dell, Microsoft, and IBM.
Craig holds a Master of Business Administration from the Texas McCombs School of Business as well as a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Tulane University.
