Category HOW AV

Case Study: Enhancing the Audio-Visual Experience at Davidson College Presbyterian

Overview

Davidson College Presbyterian Church sought to enhance their sanctuary’s audio-visual systems as part of their upcoming renovation. CIAVL was selected to design and install a state-of-the-art AV system to improve the worship experience for their congregation. This case study outlines the solution provided by CIAVL and the impact it has had on the church’s operations.

Project Objectives

  • Improve video projection and display capabilities.
  • Enhance audio quality throughout the sanctuary.
  • Provide advanced control systems for ease of use.
  • Ensure the new system integrates seamlessly with existing infrastructure.

Solution Provided

Video Systems

CIAVL installed an extensive video system designed to offer superior image quality and reliability. The components included:

  • Projection and Screens:
    • Draper 124”x198” motorized tab-tensioned projection screen.
    • Two 65” x 104” fixed frame “EDGELESS” screens.
    • NEC 10,000 lumen laser projector and two 8,000 lumen laser projectors.
  • Flat Panel Displays:
    • Two 65” flat panel displays mounted in the alcoves of the sanctuary, serving as confidence monitors for on-stage individuals.
  • Control Systems:
    • Extron TLP Pro 725T 7” tabletop touch panel and control processor in the A/V booth.
    • An Apple iPad for remote operation of the touch panel.
  • Cameras:
    • Six PTC-150W PTZ cameras with 30x optical zoom and 1080p60 resolution.
    • Two portable PTC-150 cameras on tripods.
    • RMC-300A camera control unit for centralized camera operation.
  • Video Mixing and Streaming:
    • Data-Video SE-3200 HD seamless switcher.
    • Data-Video HD/SDI capture device.
    • Apple iMac streaming computer utilizing the church’s existing streaming software.
    • Two Data-Video 17” monitors for multi-view and matrix monitoring.
    • Blackmagic HyperDeck Studio Mini card recorder for high-quality video recording and playback.
  • Additional Video Equipment:
    • Various converters and distribution amplifiers to ensure smooth signal transmission.
    • Comprehensive cabling solutions for all video components.

Audio Systems

The audio system upgrade was centered around high-quality sound reinforcement and ease of use:

  • Mixing Console:
    • Allen & Heath AH-SQ-7 48 channel digital console with AR2412 24×12 digital stage box.
  • Speakers:
    • Eight d&b Audiotechnik column speakers and eight extension speakers.
    • Eight wall-mounted columns and two subwoofers.
    • Twenty-six d&b Audiotechnik small speakers for the choir, mounted on the back of the pews.
  • Amplification and DSP:
    • Five 4-channel amplifiers with DSP to ensure equalization, protection, routing, power, and time alignment for all speakers.
  • Microphones:
    • Four hanging Earthworks choir microphones and two stand-mounted choir microphones.
    • Earthworks podium microphones for the pulpit and lectern.
    • DPA stereo piano microphone kit.
  • Control and Power Management:
    • Power sequencer and expansion modules for one-button on/off procedures.
    • Middle Atlantic 21-space rack and two 12-space racks for equipment housing.

Implementation

CIAVL provided a comprehensive solution, from design and engineering to installation and training. The process included:

  • Detailed design and engineering to tailor the system to the church’s specific needs.
  • Professional installation ensuring all components were seamlessly integrated.
  • Comprehensive programming and user training to ensure the church staff could operate the new systems efficiently.

Impact

The new audio-visual systems installed by CIAVL have significantly enhanced the worship experience at Davidson College Presbyterian Church. The congregation benefits from:

  • High-quality, consistent video projection and display.
  • Superior sound clarity and distribution throughout the sanctuary.
  • Intuitive control systems that simplify the operation of complex AV equipment.
  • Enhanced streaming capabilities, allowing the church to reach a broader audience.

Conclusion

The successful implementation of the AV systems at Davidson College Presbyterian Church demonstrates CIAVL’s expertise in delivering customized, high-quality solutions. The church now enjoys a modern, reliable, and user-friendly AV setup that supports their worship services and events.

Case Study: Upgrading the Audio System at First Baptist – Ocala

Background

First Baptist – Ocala sought to enhance their audio experience to support their growing congregation and diverse range of events. They required a modern, reliable, and intuitive sound system that could handle various audio demands with ease. CIAVL was tasked with designing and installing a state-of-the-art audio system tailored to their specific needs.

Objectives

  • Upgrade the existing sound system to a digital solution.
  • Provide easy-to-use personal monitor controls for musicians and presenters.
  • Ensure seamless wireless audio transmission with minimal interference.
  • Enhance overall sound quality and control flexibility.

Solution

We proposed and installed the Allen & Heath dLive DLC35 digital mixing surface, supported by the dLive MixRack and various other high-quality components. Key features of the installation included:

1. Allen & Heath dLive DLC35 Digital Mixing Surface:

  • User Interface: Equipped with 24 faders over 6 layers and dual 12” capacitive touchscreens for an intuitive, smartphone-like user experience.
  • Harmony UI: Offers the fastest workflow in the industry, enabling instant familiarization and efficient operation.
  • Tactile Control: High-grip rotary knobs with RGB illumination for precise control and instant visual orientation.

2. dLive Mix Engine and Accessories:

  • dLive-DM0 Mix Engine: Core processing unit ensuring robust performance.
  • Card Conversion Interface and Dante Interface Card: Facilitates versatile connectivity options and integration with other audio systems.
  • 10-Port PoE Hub and ME-1 Personal Monitor Mixer: Provides individual musicians and presenters the freedom to control their own monitor mixes with ease.

3. Wireless IEM System:

  • 10 Apple iPads: For wireless in-ear monitor (IEM) control, allowing users to adjust their monitor mixes remotely.
  • Sennheiser Wireless IEM System: Includes 5 wireless IEM 2-channel transmitters and 10 receivers with earpieces, ensuring clear and reliable audio monitoring.
  • RF VENUE Power and Antenna Distribution: Utilizes diversity paddle antennas to increase wireless range and reduce antenna dropout, ensuring consistent performance.

Implementation

The installation process was meticulously planned and executed to minimize disruption to the church’s activities. The Allen & Heath on-site factory training and commissioning ensured that the church staff could efficiently operate the new system.

Components Installed:

  • Allen & Heath AH-DLIVE-DLC35 Digital Mixing Surface
  • Allen & Heath AH-OLIVE-OMO Mix Engine
  • Allen & Heath Card Conversion Interfaces and Dante Interface Cards
  • Allen & Heath AH-ONSITE On-Site Factory Training and Commissioning
  • Allen & Heath AH-ME-U 10 Port PoE Hub
  • Allen & Heath AH-ME-1 Personal Monitor Mixer
  • PreSonus HP60 DA
  • Sennheiser SR 2050XP IEM Wireless IEM Transmitters and Receivers
  • RF Venue CP Beam Antennas and Antenna Combiners
  • Apple iPads for Personal Wireless IEM Control

Results

The upgraded audio system at First Baptist – Ocala has significantly improved the sound quality and user experience. The dLive DLC35’s intuitive interface and powerful capabilities have streamlined audio management during services and events. The personal monitor mixers and wireless IEM system have empowered musicians and presenters to customize their audio settings, resulting in better performances and clearer sound.

The implementation of RF VENUE’s antenna solutions has also ensured stable and reliable wireless communication, free from dropouts and interference. Overall, the new audio system has met and exceeded the church’s expectations, providing them with a robust and flexible solution for their audio needs.

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.