One real world problem that is encountered with setting up conference type PA systems is finding people with enough patience to stand in front of microphones in order to do a proper sound check.
Every time I have to do it I have wished that I had access to a portable talking head which can be positioned on a microphone or lighting stand in front of a microphone which can then play back spoken word recordings from a memory card.
I am aware of one product currently on the market which can do this but it is a high end reference type product and carries a hefty price tag:
NTi Talkbox
TalkBox - Acoustic Generator (STIPA Reference)
Enhancements could include:
- a panning mechanism to allow the talking head to move randomly to the left and right as often occurs in reality.
- ability to turn on randomness to the audio level to simulate presenters who fluctuate in level or in distance from the microphone.
- remote control via RS-485/RS-422 protocols with DMX512/VISCA personalities.
- ability to record to memory card from a microphone input.
- wireless connectivity for audio input/pan control
- 3D printed head-shaped enclosure based on members of the Ben Heck Show 