Otaru University of Commerce Enhances Hybrid Lectures with Shure's MXA920 Ceiling Microphones

Key Takeaways

• Otaru University of Commerce needed to improve audio quality for hybrid lectures as demand for remote and blended learning increased.
• Their existing setup using PC microphones, handheld mics, and speakerphones resulted in poor audio clarity and frequent technical issues.  
• By installing Shure MXA920 ceiling array microphones across multiple lecture rooms, the university achieved consistent, high-quality audio capture regardless of room layout.
• The solution enabled clear, intelligible audio for both in-person and remote students, creating a more engaging hybrid learning experience.
• Simple operation and seamless integration allowed instructors to teach naturally without worrying about audio setup or technical distractions.  

About Otaru University of Commerce 

Otaru University of Commerce, founded in 1910, has a rich history in providing high-quality education and contributing to the regional development of Hokkaido. In 2004, the university established a business school targeting working professionals. The need for remote and hybrid lectures increased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, making it crucial to improve the audio quality in lecture rooms.

The Challenge: Improving Audio Quality for Hybrid Lectures

Otaru University of Commerce faced the challenge of improving audio quality for hybrid lectures at its Sapporo Satellite Campus. They needed a solution to deliver clear audio for both in-person and remote students. Their existing setup using PC cameras, handheld microphones, and speakerphones was insufficient, leading to frequent technical issues and poor audio quality. The demand for better remote learning solutions grew, especially with the integration of distant universities and the need to provide high-quality education.

MXA902 installed in a small classroom

The Solution: Deploying Shure MXA920 for Consistent Lecture Audio

The university decided to improve the audio setup by using Shure’s ceiling array microphones, specifically the MXA920, due to its exceptional performance. They conducted local demonstrations at the Sapporo Satellite Campus and were impressed with the results. Consequently, they installed the MXA920 in three lecture rooms of varying sizes. This setup allowed for flexible use of the rooms without needing to rearrange microphones for each class.

Large classroom for up to 60 people

The Results: Clearer Communication and Enhanced Hybrid Learning

The installation of Shure's MXA920 microphones significantly improved the audio quality for hybrid lectures. Clear and intelligible audio was recorded consistently, enabling a more natural experience for remote participants. The microphones ensured that important presentations, such as business workshops, were captured with high clarity, benefiting the students' learning experience. The solution also allowed seamless integration with existing handheld microphones and speakers, enhancing the quality of both in-person and remote lectures. Shure’s support and the ease of equipment operation further contributed to the successful implementation, allowing instructors to deliver lectures naturally without technical distractions. 

Two MXA920s installed in a large classroom

Shure's ceiling array microphones are effortless; all you have to do is face the students and lecture as you normally would, and the audio is picked up clearly. Shure Japan also provided solid support, so I felt it was a solution that could be implemented with peace of mind.

Tomoyuki Hatamoto, Professor and Head of Entrepreneurship Department, Otaru University of Commerce Business School (Professional Graduate School) 

Explore how Shure's conferencing solutions support clear, consistent communication across hybrid learning and collaboration environments here. 

Published November 29, 2024. Updated June 22, 2026.