Multichannel / spatial audio engineer for pneuma and amanzi eafrica exhibitions

Iziko Museums of South Africa, a Schedule 3A public entity and non-profit organisation, requires a multichannel/spatial audio engineer to work on two artworks in the MTN UJ New Contemporaries exhibition at the Iziko South African National Gallery and one ambient sound installation for the Amanzi eAfrica exhibition at the Iziko South African Museum. The scope covers acoustic assessment, AV installation, system calibration, and spatial audio mixing of three sound artworks, with basic audio editing, soundscape production, looping and mastering for one installation. Work must be done in accordance with drawings, specifications and plans in Annexure A.

Site visit and briefing: 14 October 2026 at 11:00 at Iziko South African National Gallery, Government Ave, Cape Town, 8001

Closing date: 23 October 2026 at 11:00

Project deadlines:

• MTN UJ artworks: On-site installation 16–20 November 2026; completed installation required by 20 November 2026 (exhibition opens 21 November 2026). Acoustic room analysis can take place on appointment, prior to 19 November 2026. User/technical manual can be delivered the week after 19 November.
• Amanzi eAfrica: Appointment anticipated late October/early November 2026. Workshop and sound shortlisting 4–10 November 2026. Audio editing, soundscape production, looping and mastering 10 November – 1 December 2026. Sign-off and final edits 2–6 December 2026. On-site calibration, tuning and mix adaptation 7–11 December 2026. Exhibition opens 12 December 2026.

Technical enquiries:

• Contact: Nkosingiphile Mazibuko
• Email: [email protected]

Also noted:

• Attention: Noleen Donson and Amy Sephton
• Email: [email protected]
• Contact: Amogelang Maledu
• Email: [email protected]

Submission address (email): [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]

Service/delivery address:

Iziko South African National Gallery

Government Ave

Cape Town, 8001

Submission method: email

Submission email: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]

Closing time: 23 October 2026 at 11:00

Returnable documents (all must be completed, signed and submitted):

• Completed Request to Quote submission (all pages filled in where applicable)
• SBD 4 (Bidder's Disclosure): declares any employment by an organ of state, relationships with procuring institution staff, and interests in other enterprises; failure to disclose all CSD-registered active companies linked to directors leads to disqualification.
• SBD 6.1 (Preference Points Claim Form): claims preference points for specific goals under the 80/20 system.
• Valid B-BBEE certificate or sworn affidavit.
• Full, current CSD report (not older than the publication date of this advertisement) reflecting active and compliant tax status, complete company details, and CSD MAAA number.
• Valid SARS Tax Compliance Status (TCS) PIN and Income Tax Reference Number.
• Detailed pricing structure inclusive of VAT.
• Portfolio with at least three relevant projects completed within the past five years, including pictures, descriptions, completion dates, and client contact details.
• Every page of Annexure A signed, acknowledging review of drawings and specifications and that the quoted price covers all works.

Disqualification risks:

• Any required administrative document omitted.
• Bid not filled in correctly or completely, or not complying with specifications.
• Submission after the closing date and time.
• Supplier not registered on CSD or with non-compliant tax status.
• Any alterations to the tender document other than filling in bidder details and price.
• Bidder listed on the Register of Tender Defaulters or List of Restricted Suppliers.

Evaluation is based on the 80/20 preference point system:

• Price: 80 points
• Specific goals: 20 points

Mandatory requirements before price and preference evaluation:

• CSD registration with active and compliant tax status.
• Valid TCS PIN and tax registration number.
• Valid B-BBEE certificate or sworn affidavit.
• Completed SBD 4 and SBD 6.1.
• Detailed pricing structure.
• Portfolio with at least three comparable projects within the past five years.
• Signed Annexure A.

Specific goals points (based on black ownership):

• 50% or more black ownership: 20 points
• Less than 50% black ownership: 10 points
• 0% black ownership: 0 points

Iziko reserves the right not to award to any bidder, to retract the quotation, or to reduce deliverables. The lowest or only quotation will not necessarily be accepted. Iziko may consider the risk of fruitless and wasteful expenditure, abnormally low bids, material irregularities, and may not consider bids from bidders in litigation with Iziko or with a proven poor record of accomplishment.

Scope: Appointment of a spatial audio engineer to provide acoustic assessment, AV installation, system calibration, and spatial audio mixing for three sound artworks at Iziko museums. Basic audio editing, soundscape production, looping and mastering required for one installation.

Artwork 1 (MTN UJ): Pneuma: For Mbizo & Mongezi by Zara Julius

• 6.1 multi-channel sound installation (7-channel playback) in a 9.2 x 12.2m gallery with a sand field (6.3m x 8.6m) and two church pews.
• Hardware: Six active studio monitors (JBL Control 2) on 1.2m stands in a hexagon, active 11-inch subwoofer, BrightSign XT4 player via USB, Behringer U-Phoria UMC1820 interface.
• Requires a full day of calibration for intimate yet relatively loud listening, precise spatial balancing of mids, lows, and highs.

Artwork 2 (MTN UJ): It's Us O Lord by Simnikiwe Buhlungu

• 4.1 surround sound installation (11 minutes 12 seconds loop) with modular wooden platforms.
• Hardware: 4 directional surround channels + 1 subwoofer/LFE (Titan 8 Active), BrightSign LS OB, Behringer Xenyx x1003B.
• Requires spatial balancing to manage sound reflections off walls and structures; prepare for sound leakage and acoustic reverberation assessments.

Artwork 3 (Amanzi eAfrica): Ambient Sound Installation

• Continuous multi-zone ambient soundscape across 8 speakers integrated into landscape elements and displays.
• Hardware: Optimal Audio Cuboid 5TX loudspeakers, one to two Wharfedale Pro DP-8015i 8-channel power amplifiers, Allen & Heath CQ digital mixer (brands may change but specs similar).
• Loop approximately 10 minutes long; requires multi-zone level balancing across all eight channels, smooth spatial bleed between zones, and gradual fade towards the Lucid Dreams installation to avoid audio overlap.

Deliverables for each artwork:

• Acoustic room analysis: assess reverberation, reflections, frequency response, room modes, low-frequency behaviour; provide written assessment and recommendations.
• AV installation: install and configure complete audio playback system per Annexure A, safe and discreet for public museum environment, reliable long-duration operation.
• System calibration, tuning and on-site mix adaptation: calibrate level, EQ, delay, phase/polarity, bass management; test and adapt in situ; allow minimum on-site days specified in Annexure A; final system and mix signed off by Iziko.
• User/technical manual: document equipment, signal routing, channel assignments, playback requirements, calibration settings, operating procedures; submit on completion.

Additional services for Amanzi eAfrica only:

• Audio editing and soundscape production: review/edit environmental recordings, develop 8 sound zones (Zone 1 standalone composition synced with video, Zones 2–8 continuous ambient soundscapes).
• Looping and mastering: seamless loops with no audible gaps or clicks, consistent loudness, playback-ready uncompressed files; Zone 1 synced with video.
• Stock audio licensing allowance: capped allowance for licensed third-party recordings or original recordings, subject to prior written approval and supporting documentation.

The appointed service provider must demonstrate specialist experience in multichannel and spatial audio installations, particularly in museum, gallery or contemporary art environments. Required competencies include: acoustic assessment and room analysis; multichannel/spatial audio systems and discrete channel routing; loudspeaker deployment and system design; system measurement, calibration and tuning; experience with 6.1 sound installations; bass management and subwoofer integration; on-site mixing and adaptation of sound works; long-duration and unattended exhibition playback; installation within public museum/gallery environments; DAW and multichannel playback systems.

Bidders must provide verifiable evidence of at least 3 relevant projects completed within the past 10 years, demonstrating experience in sound installation, spatial/multichannel audio, and working within public gallery, museum or contemporary art contexts. The portfolio must include pictures, descriptions of work done, completion dates, and client contact details. Projects should demonstrate experience in multichannel/spatial audio and/or calibration and/or sound design for exhibition, immersive theatre, gallery, theatre, or similar environments.

Pricing must be provided as a detailed cost schedule inclusive of VAT, covering all costs, disbursements, escalations, and overtime. The schedule must follow the table provided in the RFQ, with items for acoustic room analysis, AV installation, system calibration/tuning/mix adaptation, additional calibration days, user/technical manual, audio editing and soundscape production, looping and mastering, capped stock audio licensing allowance (R10,000), and travel/disbursements. Quotations must be valid for at least 60 days from closing date. No price variation after award.

Pricing format: Cost schedule inclusive of VAT, detailing all costs, disbursements, production costs, and overtime. No variation after award.

Pricing schedule items:

• A: Acoustic room analysis and assessment (3 artworks)
• B: AV installation and system setup (3 artworks)
• C: System calibration, tuning and on-site mix adaptation (2 days for MTN UJ 2 artworks; 1 day for Amanzi eAfrica installation)
• D: Additional calibration/tuning/mix adaptation days, if required (2 days for MTN UJ 2 artworks; 2 days for Amanzi eAfrica installation)
• E: User/technical manual (3 artworks)
• F: Audio editing and soundscape production (Amanzi eAfrica installation)
• G: Looping and mastering (Amanzi eAfrica installation)
• H: Capped allowance for licensed third-party recordings or original recordings: maximum VAT-inclusive R10,000, subject to prior approval and supporting documentation. Not a guaranteed payment; unused portion not payable.
• I: Travel, disbursements and other incidental costs (as per Annexure A, in Rand value)

Quotation validity: Minimum 60 days from closing date.

Stock audio licensing allowance terms:

• All expenditure must receive prior written approval from Iziko and be supported by invoices, receipts, licensing documentation.
• Allowance is not a guaranteed payment; unused portion remains unspent and cannot be invoiced as fee or profit.

CSD registration: Must be registered on the Central Supplier Database with active and compliant tax status. Submit a full, current CSD report (not older than publication date of this advertisement) with CSD MAAA number.

Tax compliance: Provide valid SARS Tax Compliance Status (TCS) PIN and Income Tax Reference Number.

B-BBEE: Provide a valid B-BBEE certificate or sworn affidavit to determine status level. Preference points for specific goals based on black ownership (see evaluation criteria).

SBD forms: Complete and submit SBD 4 (Bidder's Disclosure) and SBD 6.1 (Preference Points Claim Form).

Declaration: Confirm no appearance on Register of Tender Defaulters, no convictions for fraud or corruption in last five years, no association with other tendering entities or conflict of interest, and that information is true and correct.

Consent: By signing, bidder consents to use of personal information and confirms consent from shareholders/directors; failure to provide information may lead to disqualification.

The Amanzi eAfrica installation uses environmental field recordings (rainfall, children playing, flowing streams, frogs, hippos, fish eagles) to evoke water and wildlife. The soundscape must be balanced to avoid harsh audio spill or acoustic clashing, and must transition appropriately towards the Lucid Dreams installation to avoid audio overlap or interference. No specific environmental compliance requirements are stated.

The proposal and appended documentation form the basis for a formal contract to be negotiated and concluded between Iziko and the preferred service provider. A mere offer and acceptance does not constitute a formal contract. Quotations must be valid for a minimum of 60 days from closing date. Pricing schedule and formal quotation must include all applicable costs with no variation after award. The stock audio licensing allowance (R10,000) is capped, requires prior written approval, and is not a guaranteed payment. Iziko may consider risks of fruitless and wasteful expenditure, abnormally low bids, and material irregularities. Iziko reserves the right not to consider bids from bidders in litigation with Iziko or with a proven poor record of accomplishment.

Evaluation uses the 80/20 preference point system: 80 points for price, 20 points for specific goals. Specific goals points are based on black ownership: 50% or more black ownership = 20 points; less than 50% = 10 points; 0% = 0 points. Bidders must meet all mandatory requirements (CSD, tax, B-BBEE, SBD forms, pricing, portfolio, signed Annexure A) to proceed to price and preference evaluation. Iziko reserves the right not to award, to retract the quotation, or to reduce deliverables.

The procurement covers two sound installations: 'Pneuma' by Zara Julius, a 6.1 multichannel sound installation, and the 'Amanzi eAfrica' ambient sound installation. The work includes sound installation, exhibition acoustics, loudspeaker system calibration and on-site mixing of discrete multichannel works.

Compulsory site visit: date and time not stated; attendance is mandatory before work commences.

Returnable documents:

• Annexure A (Signature of Bidder): signed confirmation that the drawings and specifications have been reviewed, all requirements considered, and the quotation includes all labour, materials, equipment and works necessary to complete and install the scope.

Submission method and address are not stated in the provided document.

No evaluation criteria are stated beyond the requirement to sign Annexure A. A compulsory site visit is mandatory before work commences.

Scope: supply and install multichannel/spatial audio for two exhibitions at Iziko Museums of Cape Town.

Pneuma (Zara Julius) – 6.1 multichannel sound installation:

• Dedicated to exiled South African jazz musicians Johnny Mbizo Dyani and Mongezi Feza.
• Features a 'chamber orchestra' of 6 voices using circular breathing.
• Gallery: 9.2 m x 12.2 m, with a sand field (6.3 m x 8.6 m) and two dark-stained hardwood church pews facing each other.
• Audio hardware: six active studio monitors (JBL Control 2) on 1.2 m stands in a wide hexagon, plus an active 11-inch subwoofer.
• Playback: BrightSign XT4 player via USB through a 7+ channel audio interface (Behringer U-Phoria UMC1820).
• Acoustic expectation: looped soundscape calibrated for intimate yet relatively loud listening, requiring precise spatial balancing of mids, lows and highs across all channels to suit the room's reverberation. A full day of calibration is necessary.
• Power outlets: Outlet 1 (1st Imix PS-71) – 5 projectors, 1950 W, 8.5 A; Outlet 2 (2nd Imix PS-71) – Mac Mini + audio + network + Pi/Arduino, 472 W, 2.1 A; Outlet 3 (Surround Sound setup).

Amanzi eAfrica Ambient Sound Installation:

• Soundscape for the Amanzi eAfrica exhibition, with 7 speaker zones.
• Speaker locations shown are approximate; final placement determined during installation and system calibration.
• Set dressing generally commences approximately 500 mm above finished floor level; speaker placement expected to fall broadly within this area.
• Existing environmental recordings (freesound.org and YouTube links) are provided as primary source material; the supplier should review and incorporate suitable recordings where appropriate.
• Licensing for YouTube sources must be secured if used.

General requirements:

• All work must comply with National Building Regulations SANS 10400.
• On-site verification of dimensions and levels is mandatory before any work commences.
• Confirmation of dimensions on-site is required before producing shop drawings, manufacturing components, or placing orders.
• Drawings must be interpreted with details, schedules, drainage drawings, internal elevations and other specialist drawings.
• Any conflicting information must be referred to the architect, exhibition designers and responsible consultants before construction.
• The supplier must attend the compulsory site inspection to familiarise themselves with the installation environment, site access, existing building conditions and constraints.
• The supplier must take all necessary site measurements and verify all dimensions before commencing the job; dimensions on drawings are for reference only.
• The supplier must satisfy themselves that their proposed construction and quote can be successfully installed.
• The supplier must verify the position of all existing services, floor outlets and other building features that may affect installation of dry walls.
• The supplier must immediately notify the client of any discrepancies between drawings and actual site conditions before fabrication begins.

Methodology for Pneuma installation:

• Physical setup: Centered in the 9.2 m x 12.2 m gallery is a sand field (6.3 m x 8.6 m) with two dark-stained hardwood church pews facing each other.
• Audio hardware: Six active studio monitors (JBL Control 2) on 1.2 m stands form a wide hexagon around the seating area, paired with an active 11-inch subwoofer.
• Playback: BrightSign XT4 player via USB through a 7+ channel audio interface (Behringer U-Phoria UMC1820).
• Acoustic calibration: A looped soundscape must be calibrated for intimate yet relatively loud listening, requiring precise spatial balancing of mids, lows and highs across all channels. A full day of calibration is necessary.
• Power outlets: Outlet 1 (1st Imix PS-71) – 5 projectors, 1950 W, 8.5 A; Outlet 2 (2nd Imix PS-71) – Mac Mini + audio + network + Pi/Arduino, 472 W, 2.1 A; Outlet 3 (Surround Sound setup).

Quality requirements:

• All work must strictly adhere to specified dimensions and comply with SANS 10400.
• On-site verification of dimensions and levels is mandatory before work commences.
• The supplier must take all necessary site measurements and verify all dimensions before starting.
• The supplier must satisfy themselves that their proposed construction and quote can be successfully installed.
• The supplier must verify the position of all existing services, floor outlets and other building features that may affect installation.
• Any discrepancies between drawings and actual site conditions must be reported to the client immediately before fabrication begins.

Stock Audio Licensing Allowance: An allowance of R10,000 is available for the purchase and licensing of third-party environmental sound recordings from approved stock audio libraries. All expenditure against this allowance requires prior written approval from Iziko and must be tracked and supported by invoices, receipts and licensing documentation. Any unused portion remains unspent and is not payable to the supplier as a fee or profit.

Stock Audio Licensing Allowance:

• An allowance of R10,000 is available for the purchase and licensing of third-party environmental sound recordings from approved stock audio libraries.
• All expenditure against this allowance requires prior written approval from Iziko.
• Expenditure must be tracked and supported by relevant invoices, receipts and licensing documentation.
• Any unused portion remains unspent and is not payable to the supplier as a fee or profit.

No specific compliance requirements (e.g., CSD registration, tax clearance, B-BBEE level, CIDB grading) are stated in the provided document.

Environmental recordings: The supplier should review available existing environmental recordings (provided as links) and incorporate suitable recordings where appropriate. Licensing for YouTube sources must be secured if used. An allowance of R10,000 is available for purchasing and licensing third-party environmental sound recordings from approved stock audio libraries, subject to prior written approval from Iziko.