Mazowsze Performance Hall adopts Optocore solution for fiber upgrade Krzysztof Polesiński bases network around AutoRouter loops and MADI M8 switching
Situated to the west of Warsaw in Mazovia, the around 650-seat multipurpose Mazowsze Performance Hall concert venue and cultural centre recently moved onto a fiber optic backbone, after adopting an Optocore topology.
Noted sound engineer and designer Krzysztof Polesiński was responsible for the specification, which included two AutoRouter loops and four Optocore M8 MADI switchers — part of a new immersive infrastructure, with L-Acoustics L-ISA and DiGiCo Quantum state-of-the-art sound at front-of-house. He wanted the entire new system to be as redundant as possible and was unequivocal in his choice of fiber-optic signal transport.
Explaining his decision, he said, “Fiber is a medium for transmitting various types of signal losslessly, including audio, video, and data. Also, it is safe to use because it eliminates all problems associated with copper cables … notably electromagnetic interference.
“In addition, fiber optics can support many different protocols simultaneously, significantly reducing the amount of cabling required. In both fixed and touring installations, the use of fiber optics has now become so common that copper installations are seen less and less.”
He had first become familiar with Optocore while working on DiGiCo D5 consoles, which were based on Optocore network transmission. “Although they were using an older firmware version, the possibilities were still enormous,” he said. “My next experience—with the newer firmware was on a concert tour when Optocore devices distributed the signals.”
Thus, when he was tasked with designing the installation at the Roma Musical Theatre in Warsaw, it coincided with the launch of the AutoRouter. “For me this became a game-changer for permanent installations, allowing the replacement of loop-based installations with a star topology, which in permanent installations—where different devices are connected in different locations—significantly improves the flexibility for local technicians.” It was the beginning of a long relationship with AutoRouter.
“In subsequent installations I designed, I always tried to use the AutoRouter whenever the topology or user needs required it. After all, technology is there to make our work easier!”
At Mazowsze Performance Hall, Optocore handles signal distribution to the many locations, ensuring automatic connection and disconnection of devices appearing across a vast network. This entire network is on two Optocore loops, each of which is routed to its own AutoRouter, allowing for complete flexibility in connecting multiple points simultaneously, with all signals meeting at the consoles.
“Up to 1,000 channels can be transmitted across the entire Optocore network,” Krzysztof explains. “Besides network integration with DiGiCo consoles, signals can also be routed outside the consoles between X6R-FX modules, which allow for analogue, AES/EBU signal transport, and provide an Ethernet tunnel. Furthermore, if necessary, these devices can be combined with the consoles, creating another point with a set of inputs and outputs.”
He again emphasised the importance of complete redundancy, utilising redundant Optocore network connections for each loop. “Redundancy is also present in the Optocore devices themselves, as we have two AutoRouters and four M8 interfaces, two for each [L-Acoustics] L-ISA II processor, as they are also redundant. The entire installation uses only two types of amplifier, and each type has its own redundant counterpart.
As for the upgraded connectivity, he has detailed standard HMA connectors for the Optocore network, BNC connectors for MADI or video signals, analogue AES/EBU connectors, and an extensive network of Ethernet connections in the CAT6A category. The connections were designed in collaboration with Andrzej Kawiak from Odeo. Audio Plus were responsible for the sound system; Polsound were responsible for the consoles and signal distribution.
The installation also required modifying the 4-ton acoustic panel hanging above the auditorium, and this operation was the most complex due to the building’s construction.
In summary, Krzysztof Polesiński says, “I believe the Mazowsze signal system is well-thought-out, allowing for very quick set-up and dismantling by the technical crew. The crew uses the same type of cabling both on-site in the auditorium and for touring concerts, which significantly improves efficiency and eliminates errors. The cabling and transport system is designed for touring applications, including the use of Optocore.
“From the moment I discovered it, Optocore proved to be one of the most stable solutions, ensuring full galvanic isolation, lossless transmission, and easy scalability. As I already mentioned, AutoRouter is a game changer, and I can’t imagine an installation without it.”
It has certainly proven popular with operators and incoming productions, as the venue’s chief sound engineer, Piotr Przedbora, confirms. “The Optocore system is the perfect solution for all the projects I’ve had the pleasure of participating in so far. Krzysiek expertly developed the entire system, taking into account the specifics of the artistic teamwork, the feedback from the acoustic team, and numerous discussions looking far into the future.
I have always been confident in the stability of the entire system. Quick network access from the consoles is incredibly convenient—and when everything is properly configured, we, as engineers, can focus on creating the mix. Then there’s no need to worry about interference or sonic limitations, as only the music matters.”
An important element behind the success of the Mazowsze fiber upgrade was the involvement of Optocore’s Polish distributor, AudioRebel, led by its founder Dawid Somló. As a former Optocore employee, he brings deep technical knowledge of the platform and practical experience from many system deployments. This background allows him to support Polish integrators, rental companies and consultants with a level of insight rarely found outside the manufacturer.
Due to this partnership, the project integrated smoothly into Optocore’s ecosystem in Poland. AudioRebel continues to play a key role in educating engineers, promoting fiber workflows and supporting advanced installations such as Mazowsze’s with solid, manufacturer-level expertise.
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Picture credits:
Exterior building photo: Krzysztof Sitkowski
Remainder of photos: Bartłomiej Lichocki