Case Study: First Baptist Church of Dunnellon – Full Campus AV Integration

Project Overview

First Baptist Church of Dunnellon, Florida, embarked on a new campus construction project requiring full AV integration. The objective was to implement a high-quality audio and video system across multiple spaces, including the main auditorium, Youth Worship, Children’s Worship, and Fellowship Hall, along with campus-wide ISP connectivity via fiber between buildings.

Client and Location

  • Client: First Baptist Church of Dunnellon, Florida
  • Location: Dunnellon, Florida

Project Goals

The primary goals of the project included:

  • Implementing a clear, full-range audio system for the auditorium.
  • Installing a triple-wide projection screen to enhance visual presentations.
  • Equipping Youth Worship, Children’s Worship, and the Fellowship Hall with professional AV systems.
  • Establishing fiber connectivity across all buildings for seamless AV and networking integration.

Project Timeline

The project was highly dependent on the general contractor’s schedule, which led to an adaptive approach rather than a strict timeline. The team remained flexible, ensuring that installations were completed as soon as conditions allowed.

Team and Expertise

This project was executed by an experienced team specializing in AV design, project management, installation, and remote support:

  • Designers: Don DePew and Wayne McKinney
  • Project Managers: Don DePew, Perry McKinney, Michael Melton
  • Technicians: Ryan James, Andrew DePew, Darren Mitchell, Hunter Smith
  • Remote Support: David Dudley, Steven Neese, David Jennings

Solution Design

The design phase utilized Ease Focus 3 modeling software and architectural blueprints to create an optimized AV solution that met both the client’s goals and budget.

Innovative Solutions:

  • A Blackmagic DeckLink 8K was uniquely configured to serve as four independent outputs for ProPresenter 7, enabling seamless multi-screen content delivery.
  • Edge blending of three projectors was expertly managed to create a seamless 36-foot-wide projection screen, enhancing visual presentations in the auditorium.
  • The house lighting system initially presented challenges in responding to traditional 0-10V to DMX dimming. Doug Fleenor Design provided a specialized interface that successfully bridged this gap, ensuring smooth dimming functionality.
  • Video feeds from the worship center were distributed to various rooms using Alfatron HDMI extenders and distribution amplifiers, allowing for real-time content sharing across campus.

Technology and Equipment

A comprehensive AV setup was implemented, featuring top-tier brands and technologies. Key components included:

  • Audio System:
    • Allen & Heath digital consoles (AH-AVANTIS, QU-24-C, AH-AHM-16)
    • Fulcrum Acoustics DX Series speakers, subwoofers, and monitors
    • Shure wireless microphones and IEM systems
    • Ashly and Apex amplifiers with DSP control
  • Video System:
    • Draper 90”H x 432”W projection screen
    • NEC 8K lumen laser projectors
    • Extron scaling switchers, amplifiers, and control processors
    • Data-Video PTZ cameras and streaming encoders
  • Networking & ISP:
    • Ubiquiti UDM-Pro for network management
    • Ubiquiti long-range WiFi access points
    • 700 feet of fiber connecting campus buildings

Client Satisfaction

The client has been extremely satisfied with the final outcome. Key highlights include:

  • The audio system has been highly praised by the community for its clarity and full-range performance.
  • The ultra-wide projection screen has drawn significant attention from visitors, enhancing the church’s ability to engage its congregation visually.
  • The project team was recognized for their professionalism, patience, and ability to overcome unforeseen obstacles, ensuring a high-quality installation despite construction-related challenges.

Conclusion

The successful implementation of AV technology at First Baptist Church of Dunnellon has resulted in a state-of-the-art worship experience that seamlessly integrates audio, video, and networking across multiple buildings. The combination of advanced projection systems, high-fidelity sound, and robust networking has set a new standard for church AV installations, making this project a benchmark in the industry.

Case Study: Emmanuel Baptist Church Sound System Installation

Project Overview

CIAVL recently completed a state-of-the-art sound system installation at Emmanuel Baptist Church. This project aimed to enhance the auditory experience during services and events through advanced technology and strategic design.

Challenges

The primary challenge was to ensure optimal sound dispersion and intelligibility throughout the sanctuary, a crucial factor for engaging and impactful services. Moreover, the church required a flexible, user-friendly system capable of handling various events with different technical needs.

Solution Provided
1. Site Assessment and System Design

CIAVL conducted a thorough review of the sanctuary to understand the acoustic characteristics and user requirements. Based on the findings, CIAVL recommended the installation of professional loudspeakers from Fulcrum Acoustics, known for their high performance and immersive sound quality. These speakers feature proprietary DSP algorithms and revolutionary coaxial designs, enhancing sonic accuracy and adding depth to the auditory experience.

2. Advanced Mixing Console

The installation included two 64-channel Avantis digital mixers from Allen & Heath, placed at the Front-Of-House and in the Production Room. These mixers, part of the 96 kHz console series, are known for their high-resolution sound and versatile processing capabilities. Features include:

  • Elegant dual 15″ full HD touch screens for an immersive mixing experience.
  • 24 motorized channel faders with intuitive visual feedback.
  • Quick access to EQ, compressor, FX settings, and more.
  • Standard 12 XLR analog inputs and outputs, with additional connectivity options.
  • The Avantis-W-DPACK, equipped with DPACK DEEP and DYN8 preinstalled for advanced sound processing.
3. Seamless Connectivity

To minimize wiring and simplify setup, CIAVL implemented digital stage boxes for microphone connections, allowing audio signals to be transmitted through a single Cat-5E cable.

4. Superior Wireless Systems

The system included a Shure Axient quad wireless receiver and four wireless handheld transmitters, enhanced by RF VENUE power and antenna distribution. This setup ensures extended range and reliability, reducing the chances of antenna dropouts.

5. Equipment Housing and Power Management

All equipment was neatly organized in a 21-space equipment rack, ensuring easy access and maintenance. A power sequencer with expansion modules was installed to enable one-button on/off procedures, protecting the system from transient pops or cracks.

Results and Impact

The installation at Emmanuel Baptist Church was a resounding success, significantly improving the sound quality and user experience during services. The advanced technology and strategic design provided by CIAVL ensured:

  • Enhanced sound intelligibility and dispersion throughout the sanctuary.
  • A versatile, user-friendly system capable of supporting a wide range of events.
  • Reduced wiring complexity and maintenance needs.
  • Reliable and extended-range wireless connectivity.
  • Safe and efficient power management for the audio system.

CIAVL’s commitment to delivering tailored solutions and its attention to detail in the installation process have set a new standard for audio system installations in places of worship. The project at Emmanuel Baptist Church not only met but exceeded client expectations, demonstrating CIAVL’s expertise in integrating complex audio systems seamlessly.