Digital or Analog Audio Mixing Consoles?

In this edition of Church Production Magazine Online Update, we speak with Matt Larson, Sales Manager - Americas for Midas and Klark Teknik. Larson reviews the features and benefits of digital mixing consoles and what you should look for in a console in general. For more information on Midas consoles visit www.midasconsoles.com.

Technical support for this Podcast courtesy of D&M Professional (www.d-mpro.com), Audio-Technica (www.audio-technica.com) and Blue Sky (www.abluesky.com).

back to top

World Youth Day Down Under Puts Adamson Up Front

back to top

WFX Announces Winners for 2008 New Product Awards

The winners of the 2008 WFX New Product Awards were announced at the Worship Facilities Conference & Expo (WFX). The WFX New Product Awards, presented by Church Production Magazine and Worship Facilities Magazine, were designed to recognize the newest and most innovative building, management, and technology products marketing to churches within the past year.

The following is a complete listing of the 2008 winning companies and products. Product descriptions and categories entered are listed online.

BEST BUILDING MATERIAL AND BUILDING SYSTEM PRODUCTS
Acoustical Treatment, Fabri Trak Systems, Inc.: EZ Span System
Architectural Lighting Product/System, ETC (Electronic Theatre Controls, Inc.): ETC Unison Architectural Lighting Console System
Building Automation Product/System, Crestron Electronics: TPS-6X
Church Seating, Bertolini Inc: Postureflex Titan VBE 91664
Electrical Product/System, Furman Sound: M-8Dx Power Conditioner
HVAC Product/System, ServiceU Corporation: EventU Green
Wall Covering, Quad-Lock Building Systems, Ltd.: R-ETRO System
BEST OVERALL BUILDING PRODUCT, ETC (Electronic Theatre Controls, Inc.): ETC Unison Architectural Lighting Console System

BEST AUDIO PRODUCTS
Digital Mixing Console, Roland Systems Group: RSS V-Mixing System
In-ear Monitoring System, Audio-Technica U.S., Inc.: Audio-Technica M3 Wireless In-Ear Monitor System
Large-Format Loudspeaker, Meyer Sound: UPQ-1P Wide Coverage Loudspeaker
Microphone, Audix, Inc.: M1255 Micros Miniature Condenser Microphone   
Small-Format Loudspeaker, Meyer Sound: MM-4XP Miniature Loudspeaker
Other Audio Product, Lab.gruppen: PLM 10000Q Amplifier
BEST OVERALL AUDIO PRODUCT, Roland Systems Group: RSS V-Mixing System

BEST VIDEO PRODUCTS
Digital Signage, Sony Electronics, Inc.: VSP-NS7 Digital Signage System
Installation Projector, Christie Digital Systems USA, Inc.: Christie HD10K-M
Presentation Software, Renewed Vision: ProPresenter 3.5 with Advanced Alpha Keyer Modules
Projection Screen, Elite Screens, Inc.: StarBright Ultra-High Gain Projection Screen
Video Camera/Camcorder, Sony Electronics Inc.: PMW-EX3 XDCAM EX Camcorder
Video Switcher/Scaler/Mixer, TV One: C2-3300
Other Video Product, Gefen: HDMI over RGB Extender
BEST OVERALL VIDEO PRODUCT, Renewed Vision: ProPresenter 3.5 with Advanced Alpha Keyer Modules

BEST LIGHTING PRODUCTS
Conventional Lighting Console, Lehigh Electric Products Company: Wave lighting console
Dimmer, Crestron Electronics: CLS-C6RF
LED Fixture, A.C. Lighting: Chroma-Q Color Blade
Other Lighting Product, Leprecon, LLC: aris Architectural Interface System
BEST OVERALL LIGHTING PRODUCT, Leprecon, LLC: aris Architectural Interface System

BEST DIGITAL CHURCH PRODUCTS
Podcasting, Webcasting, and Website Streaming Media Solution, faithHighway: SermonConnect

BEST OVERALL DIGITAL CHURCH PRODUCT, faithHighway: SermonConnect

The products competing in this year's program must have been introduced to the market between October 1, 2007 and November 6, 2008 to be considered an eligible award recipient. Each contestant submitted an extensive description of the product and noted features and benefits to be judged by a panel of industry experts.

Additional information on the contestants is currently featured online at www.wfxweb.com.

back to top

WFX Announces Winners for Solomon Awards Program

The winners of the 2008 WFX Solomon Awards were acknowledged recently at the Worship Facilities Conference & Expo (WFX) in Houston, Texas. The Solomon Awards, presented by Church Production Magazine and Worship Facilities Magazine, provided churches across the nation with recognition for their excellence in facilities design, operation, use, and A/V production.

All projects in this year's program must have been completed between January 1, 2003 and August 8, 2008. Multiple awards were given per category based on church size.

The following is a complete listing of the 2008 winning companies and projects. Product descriptions and categories entered are listed online.

Most Innovative Church Facility:
Bright Side Baptist Church: Lancaster, PA
Mount Paran Church: Atlanta, GA

Best Building Contractor
The Beck Group: First Baptist Church Dallas – Criswell Center, Dallas, TX
Cogun, Inc.: Rock Bridge Community Church, Dalton, GA

Best Church Architect
BGW Services: Lutheran Church of St. Andrew, Silver Spring, MD
Visioneering Studios: Central Christian Church, Beloit, WI
Studio RED Architects: Fellowship of the Woodlands, The Woodlands, TX

Best Church Design: New Construction Project
Hope Chapel / The Salvation Army: Las Vegas, NV
Bright Side Baptist Church: Lancaster, PA
Watermark Community Church: Dallas, TX

Best Church Design: Expansion Project
Hamilton Hills Baptist Church: Fishers, IN
Canyon Ridge Christian Church: Las Vegas, NV

Best Church Design: Renovation Project
Richland Hills Church of Christ: North Richland Hills, TX
LaGrange Bible Church: LaGrange, IL
Moraine Valley Church: Palos Heights, IL

Best Construction Management: New Construction Project
Hammen Contracting, Inc: Lutheran Church of St. Andrew, Silver Spring, MD

Best Special Project
Bright Side Baptist Church: Lancaster, PA
Willow Creek Community Church: South Barrington, IL
Sight & Sound Ministries: Branson, MO

BEST OVERALL BUILDING PROJECT
Bright Side Baptist Church: Lancaster, PA

Best Design, Implementation and Operation: Audio Equipment/System
Design 2020: First Baptist Church Simsponville, Simpsonville,SC
Acoustic Dimensions: Resurrection Life Church, Grandville, MI
Ravi Zacharias Internationa Ministries: Norcross, GA

Best Design, Implementation and Operation: Video Equipment/System
Temple of Greater Beth-EL: Phoenix, AZ

Most Innovative Production
Victory Life Outreach: Sherman, TX
Faith Church: New Milford, CT
Mt. Bethel United Methodist Church/Live it Live! Production Team: Marietta, GA
Sight & Sound Ministries: Branson, MO

Best Technical Production Team
Spring Place Church of God of Prophecy: Cleveland, TN
Forestville Baptist Church: Greenville, SC
Westover Church: Greensboro, NC

Best Technical Director
Ryan Hodges, Van Buren First Assembly of God: Van Buren, AR

Best Technical Contractor
MusiCraft: First Baptist Church Simpsonville, Simpsonville, SC

Best Technical Consultant
Don Allensworth and New Ground Group: WestHills Church, Villa Rica, GA
Design 2020: Rock Bridge Community Church, Dalton, GA

BEST OVERALL AV PROJECT
Mt. Bethel United Methodist Church/Live it Live! Production Team: Marietta, GA

Worship Facilities Conference & Expo (WFX) is the leading event for church facilities and technology teams. WFX is presented in the spring and fall of each year by Church Production Magazine and Worship Facilities Magazine. For more info go to: www.wfxweb.com.

back to top

PreSonus Announces StudioLive Blog

PreSonus VP of Sales and Marketing Rick Naqvi is beta-testing the new PreSonus StudioLive 16-channel digital mixer in the field--and you are there! Join Rick on his new StudioLive blog as he mixes and records an assortment of live and studio performances in various clubs, churches, concert halls, and studios. Several times a week, Rick will write about his experiences using the StudioLive, and each week he will post at least one new video of the StudioLive in action, demonstrating how to quickly and easily get up and running, set up a mix, and record a multitrack show with only two mouse clicks, using the included Capture software. He'll guide you through the features as they are actually used in real concerts, worship services, and studio sessions.

This is an interactive blog, and we urge you to add comments and ask questions; Rick will respond promptly. With its ship date rapidly approaching, the StudioLive mixer will be one of the hottest audio products of 2009; follow Rick's blog to find out why!

http://presonusaudio.blogspot.com

For detailed information on PreSonus and its family of products, please visit www.presonus.com.

back to top

Yamaha Commercial Audio Systems, Inc. Expands Dedicated House of Worship Staff

Yamaha Commercial Audio Systems, Inc. (YCAS) has announced the appointment of Jacob (Jake) Cody to the position of House of Worship Marketing Specialist. In his new position, Cody will support the efforts of Dan Craik, House of Worship Marketing Manager and will report directly to YCAS marketing manager, Marc Lopez. The announcement is part of the planned expansion of the department directly responsible for all product marketing activities in support of dealers and customers within the houses of worship market.

As marketing specialist, Cody's responsibilities will include the organization and coordination of trade show and conference logistics for YCAS events and market research including the facilitation of marketing and promotions specifically geared toward this market.

"As our house of worship department continues to grow, it was important that we have a dedicated specialist located at our headquarters office to coordinate all the events and seminars  we conduct within the house of worship market," states Dan Craik, marketing manager, House of Worship. "Jake is a fine asset and with his experience in the worship market, he will be a tremendous aid to me personally."

Prior to joining YCAS, for the past six years, Cody was an audio technician at the 12,000-member Cathedral of Faith in San Jose, Calif. supporting over six venues on the church campus specifically with their digital consoles. (Cathedral of Faith uses Yamaha PM1D and M7CL digital audio consoles).  He has worked as an audio technician for ABC and ESPN Sports on college related broadcasts and spent four years as a freelance contractor/engineer mixing for local clubs, hotels, corporate events and festivals.

For further information go to: www.yamahaca.com.

back to top

The White Space Ruling: Chicken Little Can Take A Deep Sigh of Relief

Following the recent ruling by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regarding proposed "white space" consumer devices, Sennheiser is taking steps to assure users of wireless audio products that the sky will not fall after February 17th (the deadline for the digital TV conversion). The anticipation of these changes has caused a great deal of anxiety for many customers. However, not only have a variety of safeguards been put in place by the FCC ruling to help prevent interference between the unlicensed consumer devices and RF wireless microphones, but Sennheiser is launching enhanced customer service and support programs. As a first level, Sennheiser is offering a free initial consultation service via phone to answer questions from users or dealers and to address each individual situation. Anyone wishing to receive a call from an RF specialist regarding the operation of any wireless mic or monitoring equipment after February 17, 2009 may sign-up on the company's dedicated website www.sennheiserusa.com/spectrumreallocation. Higher level services will include on-site spectrum analysis, frequency coordination, as well as service contracts.

The new FCC rules include several safeguards to avoid interference to wireless microphones. Most importantly, licensed operation of wireless mics takes precedence over TV Band Devices (TVBDs), formerly referred to as white space devices (WSD). TVBDs must coordinate around active licensed wireless mic systems.

TVBDs must include the spectrum sensing capability to listen to the airwaves and detect wireless microphones (in addition to TV stations). Until they can demonstrate through "proof of performance" that they can reliably sense wireless mics and avoid causing interference through this method alone, they must also use a geolocation database system. The database would include a table of registered broadcast license assignments. It will also include a list of protected areas that use wireless microphones such as entertainment venues and sporting events. TVBDs must first access the database to obtain a list of permitted channels in the area before operating. A TVBD that lacks this capability can operate only under the direct control of a TVBD that has it.

The FCC ruling accommodates for at least two channels available for wireless mics. This ensures that a minimum of sixteen wireless mic systems - eight in each TV channel - may be used simultaneously in any venue. Equipment with high linearity (extreme suppression of harmonic distortion known as intermodulation), such as Sennheiser's 3000 and 5000 series products, will support at least twenty systems, or ten in each TV channel. Specific areas protected by the FCC ruling will enable the operation of many more channels.

Multi stage and studio properties may also effectively increase the number of systems in use through physical distance and transmitter output power management. Techniques such as shifted coordinated frequency sets, zone isolation (natural or enhanced shielding between rooms), directional antennas, and filtered distribution systems, as well as time multiplexing (using systems in different rooms at different times) may also be used.

Noted Joe Ciaudelli, Sennheiser's White Space spokesperson, "From the start, Sennheiser assessed, communicated and educated. We assessed the issues and commented on the proposed solutions based on proven technologies, rather than the often speculative technologies endorsed by the white space lobby. We communicated with the FCC and elected officials to help them understand the proven benefit of wireless audio devices to maintain the high standard of TV, radio, film, and live entertainment that the entire population has come to expect. We educated our customers, helping them distinguish between the facts and the rhetoric."

TVBDs categorized as Fixed devices are allowed to operate with effective radiating power up to 4W on channels 2-51, with the exceptions of channels 3, 4, and 37. Those classed as Personal/Portable are restricted to channels 21–51, and are also not allowed in channel 37. In addition, in thirteen major markets where certain channels between 14 and 20 are used for land mobile (municipal and public safety) operations, two channels between 21 and 51 will be reserved and available for wireless microphones. These will be the first open (non-TV) channels above and below channel 37.

Further, the unlicensed consumer devices are limited to 100mW operating power or 40mW if operating in a channel adjacent to an active station. This moderate power will reduce their range and therefore the possibility to cause interference.

Ciaudelli adds, "Although the introduction of TVBDs will pose new challenges for wireless mic users, multi-channel operation can be made reliable through the use of quality equipment operated using best practices. To assist customers with the latter, we encourage them to visit our website www.sennheiserusa.com/spectrumreallocation call our help desk hotline, and ideally attend one of our RF Sound Academy seminars."

For more information, please visit www.sennheiserusa.com.

back to top

Panasonic Announces 64GB Solid-State P2 Card

Panasonic announced the immediate availability of its new 64GB P2 solid-state memory card (model AJ-P2C064), providing expanded recording capacity for its line of P2 and P2 HD camcorders and workflow products.

Ideal for long-form production, the high-capacity 64GB P2 card allows professionals to record for hours, offering double the record times of the 32GB P2 card and increased storage capacity for larger high-definition data files. The new P2 card also features an improved transfer rate of up to 800 Mb/s for faster transfer and offload of P2 content.

Exceeding the typical storage capacity of tape and disc-based systems, the reusable 64GB P2 card can hold more than five hours of DVCPRO footage (356 minutes), more than two hours of DVCPRO50 or AVC-Intra 50 recordings (128 minutes), or more than an hour of full raster AVC-Intra 100 or DVCPRO HD content (64 minutes). With five 64GB P2 cards installed, a VariCam 3700 or AJ-HPX3000 P2 HD camcorder can record for 10 hours and 40 minutes in AVC-Intra 50, or 5.3 hours in AVC-Intra 100 or DVCPRO HD (6 hours and 40 minutes in 1080/24pN mode). Up to 13 hours and 20 minutes can be recorded in AVC-Intra 100 or DVCPRO HD using the 720/24pN mode available in the VariCam 2700 or AJ-HPX2000 P2 HD camcorders.

With P2 solid-state memory cards, users can immediately access recorded content, eliminating the need to digitize or process footage. Packaged in a rugged, die-cast frame, the P2 card is highly reliable and, unlike tape and optical discs, it is resistant to impact, vibration, shock, dust and environmental extremes including temperature changes. P2 cards can store the complete range of P2 frame rates and formats, from high definition to standard definition and from DVCPRO to AVC-Intra 100. The P2 card can be connected instantly with laptop PCs and major non-linear editing systems, eliminating the time-intensive digitizing process. For connection to laptop or desktop computers with ExpressCard slots, professionals can utilize a PC card-to-ExpressCard adapter.

Like the 16GB and 32GB P2 cards, the 64GB P2 card is compatible with Panasonic's full line of P2 camcorders, recorders and workflow tools. The 64GB P2 card will work immediately with all P2 HD camcorders purchased from May 2007 forward. P2 and P2 HD products purchased prior to that date will need a free, downloadable software upgrade available on the Panasonic website.

The 64GB P2 card is available at a suggested list price of $2,600.

P2 HD solid-state products offer high definition recording without the mechanical wear and environmental limitations of tape, hard disk, and optical disc based systems. P2 HD ensures the highest reliability, especially in challenging conditions of extreme temperature range, shock, and vibration. P2 HD products provide a significant reduction in maintenance costs, longer useful product life, and immediate access to recorded video (no need to digitize, ingest or create proxy video files) and metadata. P2 HD provides the reliability of solid-state production; the immediate connectivity to existing IT infrastructures; the speed, ease of use and portability of P2 cards; and interoperability with leading NLE systems.

For more information on Panasonic Broadcast products, access the company's web site at www.panasonic.com/broadcast.

back to top

Elation Unveils Compact ELAR Image X Projector

Elation Architectural's compact ELAR Image X image projector is small enough to fit on the palm of your hand, yet it's powerful enough to shoot a sharp, brilliant gobo or image across a room. The Image X is amazingly bright for its tiny size, because it's powered by a discharge lamp, rather than the halogen lamp found on most small image projectors. In fact, the Image X's 32W Xenon discharge lamp is equivalent in output to a 250W halogen projector.
 
Thanks to its brilliant output and razor-sharp optics, the Image X isn't limited to using only metal cut gobos, like most halogen projectors, but is brawny enough to project through glass gobos too. With glass gobos, it is possible to produce much brighter colors and crisper images -- and the Image X is definitely up to the task. Its discharge lamp operates at a color temperature of around 6,000 kelvin, much higher than the 3,200 kelvin color temperature of a halogen lamp. This higher color temperature means that the Image X creates more of a cool, fluorescent white light, allowing it to project the true, rich, lifelike colors that a glass dichroic gobo offers.
 
With its brightness and sharpness, the Image X is ideal for producing crystal-clear, vivid-color images and logos at retail establishments, grand openings, trade shows, merchandise displays, special events, and upscale entertainment venues. Its compact size allows it to fit into virtually any space and makes it easy to transport to exhibits and events.
 
"Until now, small image projectors have typically used halogen lamps," said Eric Loader, director of sales for Elation Professional. "The Image X is a totally new, innovative kind of small projector, because it utilizes a discharge lamp and is able to project through glass gobos. It offers the best of both worlds – compact size and ultra-brightness. This little dynamo projector is perfect for a variety of applications such as retail displays, department stores, exhibits – anywhere a very bright, razor-sharp logo or image is needed."
 
Users will also appreciate the easy operation and low maintenance of the Image X. Its discharge lamp lasts for 3,000 hours, compared to only 300-500 hours for a halogen lamp, so replacements are far less frequent.
 
The projector is available in two versions: the ELAR Image X, a stationary projector; and the ELAR Image XR, a rotating projector that's great for splashing an image across a wider area. Both versions accept metal and glass gobos, with a gobo viewing size of 37.5mm OD x 20mm.
 
Built to withstand the rigors of travel, both models come housed in rugged extruded aluminum casing. With their striking futuristic, robotic-like design, the Image X and Image XR not only project gobos extremely well, they'll also "project a great image" for the businesses and individuals who use them.
 
The ELAR Image X and ELAR Image XR each come with a 4' power cord. The MSRP of the ELAR Image X is $419.95. The MSRP of the ELAR Image X is $479.95.
 
For more information, call Elation Professional toll-free at 866-245-6726 or visit www.elationlighting.com.

back to top

AKG Introduces LC: Light Condenser Vocal Microphone

Designed for a wide range of applications ranging from vocals and live sound to recording and studio use, the Light Condenser Premium Vocal Microphone from AKG is an affordable acquisition for any musician.

The professional condenser vocal microphone produces outstanding performance through the loudest mix or on any stage. Its cardioid polar pattern ensures maximum gain before feedback and has been optimized for use with in-ear monitor systems. Custom-designed with piano black painting we want to address the aesthetic preferences of special performances with this slim line premium condenser microphone.

Delivering an extremely accurate, detailed and natural sound, the AKG LC features an XLR connector module with 24-carat gold plated pins for optimized connectivity, as well as resistance to corrosion and humidity. Additionally, the LC features a spring steel wire-mesh grill for extreme ruggedness offering reliable control of pops and wind noise while an artist is on stage.

The resulting LC microphone features a frequency range of 60 to 20,000 Hz and premium 24-carat gold plated transducer case for optimum conductivity. Not only is the sonic quality of the microphone aimed at complementing each voice, so too is the aesthetic design of the LC. Offering a slender and elegant silhouette, the lightweight unit has a subtle piano black finish to visually complement any performance.

Commenting on the versatility of the microphone, Vice President of Marketing and Product Management for AKG, Alfred Reinprecht states, "The LC microphone from AKG is designed for every individual user to create their own individual sound in a range of different applications. It is aesthetically pleasing and produces outstanding sound quality despite the harshest stages conditions."

Standard accessories are the PC 1000, which adds 3 to 5 dB of high-end enhancement between 5 and 9 kHz for improving clarity of each voice, a beautiful protective mic case and the stand adapter SA 61.

• Condenser vocal microphone for onstage use
• PB1000 Presence boost adapter for increased intelligibility
• XLR connector module with 24-carat gold plated pins
• 24-carat gold plated transducer case for optimum conductivity and resistance to corrosion and humidity
• Spring steel wire-mesh grill for extreme ruggedness incl. reliable control of pops and wind noise
• Shock mount

For additional info visit www.akg.com.

back to top