Photo courtesy of Cathy Hutchison for Acoustic Dimensions

Green AV

In this edition of Church Production Magazine Online Update, we speak with Craig Janssen, Principle at Acoustic Dimensions in Dallas, Texas. Craig addresses the subject of Green AV and discusses LEED accreditation and why it concerns much more than just sound, lights, and video.

For more information on Acoustic Dimensions visit www.acousticdimensions.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).

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Christ Fellowship Church Selects Worxaudio Technologies for Sound System Overhaul

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Religious Buildings Will Be the Top Performing Non-Residential Construction Sector in 2010
American Institute of Architects (AIA) data shows worship market to outpace all other segments

As U.S. building market segments continue to struggle, there is a bright spot on the horizon for the house of worship market. According to the latest data released last month by the American Institute of Architects (AIA), Religious Buildings will be the top performing non-residential construction sector in 2010.

"The AIA forecast information is a breath of fresh air for product and service providers to the house of worship market, and to congregations who are considering a building project," says Brian Blackmore, publisher and editor-in-chief of Worship Facilities Magazine and Church Production Magazine. "With other markets reeling from the lack of confidence in the economy, the AIA data provides assurance that houses of worship represent a more reliable sector, with less volatility than other construction segments--something many businesses are looking for these days."

The AIA Consensus Construction Forecast Panel released this data in a report that includes projections of business conditions in the construction industry over the coming 12 to 18 months. Data is compiled from the leading nonresidential construction forecasters in the United States, including McGraw-Hill Construction, Global Insight, Moody's economy.com, Reed Business Information, and FMI. The AIA Consensus Construction Forecast Panel has been conducted for the past 11 years.

As a leading information source for houses of worship on topics pertaining to facilities and technology, Production Media, Inc publishes Worship Facilities Magazine, Church Production Magazine and presents WFX – Worship Facilities Conference and Expo.
SOURCE: American Institute of Architects.

www.aia.org

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Link Launches New Website

Link is pleased to announce the launch of its' new interactive website: www.linkusainc.com.
After a six-month design and development initiative, Link now offers a practical and educational web experience whereby Link customers and partners can review over 2,000 products available, plan out connectivity needs, and integrate the solutions with their existing equipment. Link's Dealers and Reps are able to price and quote products online.

In line with Link's fundamental philosophy to provide its customers with strong, flexible, reliable, safe, and durable cabling and connectivity solutions, the new website extends Link's network to meet the 24x7 support needs of today's audio, video, and lighting professionals.

"We are very excited to complete the initial rollout of a powerful customer support site that offers the user an online suite of tools for designing, building, and integrating a professional multi-media system" said Link USA's Business Development Director, Bob Vanden Burgt. "The new dynamic web presence will allow our customers to better leverage Link's unique ability to design, build, and support the sophisticated multi – platform, analog and digital hybrid cabling systems that are demanded in today's live application marketplace."

The major components of Link's new site include:

• Online Help Desk & Support Center
• Interactive Product Catalog
• Technical Documentation Library
• Media Galleries, Dynamic News and Events listing

The site, powered by DotNetNuke, is easy to navigate and offers the system designer a complete catalog of Link products within the eurocable, LK Connectors, and DGlink brands. 

www.linkusainc.com

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TV One Celebrates 25 Years of Excellence

With a long history of design and manufacture, TV One celebrates a new milestone with its 25-year anniversary in 2009. From its inception in 1984 TV One has been supplying the Professional AV and Broadcast markets with premium-quality and award-winning products. "TV One has gone from strength to strength over the last 25 years," says Steven Mattingly, Managing Director of TV One's EMEA division in UK, "with a dedicated workforce and a clear vision of our course for the future, I am confident that we can continue our growth and success for another 25 years."
 
The original PC-TV adaptor that was first developed back in the mid-eighties was to drive the small family run business into the world of desktop video. The growing product range in these early years guaranteed the ongoing success and in 1998, the Research and Development team based in the UK developed the CORIO technology that would go on to be the backbone of all TV One products manufactured in the UK, propelling the company's recognition across the world for their superior range of first-class quality products. The huge success that these products achieved ensured that TV One continued to swell into an ever-expanding international company with locations all over the globe including USA, UK, Taiwan, China, Germany and Argentina.
 
Over the years that followed, the company went on to enjoy success and growth and after the new millennium, TV One developed the award winning Dual Channel Video processors that are still highly sought after today. This new decade also saw the introduction of an entirely new kind of product as after years of intensive research at the UK offices, TV One went on to develop advanced audio processing products to compliment its existing range of video processing equipment.  "This expansion into new fields hi-lights TV One's ongoing quest for excellence in the production of advanced technology in the ever increasing market place," explains David Barnes, Chairman of TV One. "Our company is committed to providing products that are the preferred choice of our customers.  We listen to what they want and develop our technology as necessary."
 
Hard work and the constant pursuit of improvement is what has driven TV One's success over the last 25 years, and with the continual development of the CORIO technology TV One will remain associated with providing high-class audio and video products, and the TV One brand will be further driven to the forefront of the ProAV, Broadcast, Systems Integration, Presentation and Live Events Markets. Barnes goes on, "We have many exciting plans for the future at TV One and we are looking forward to the ongoing challenges and success that this future will bring."
 
www.tvone.com

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Christian Archives Offers Churches Custom Web Page for Sermon Archive Storage

Christian Archives recently added a new feature to their sermon archiving service – custom web pages for church members.

Church members now choose a specific web URL i.e. churchname.christianarchives.org for their custom web page during sign-up. Each custom web page houses the archives of the specific church. The new feature makes it easy for churches to link their websites to their archive page. If a church does not have a website they can also use their custom web page as their website.

The Christian Archives search engine is installed on each custom web page so that church members can search and find sermons by topic or keyword. In addition to archives, each church custom web page provides churches with the option of offering additional information including pastor name, church address/directions, service times, events, devotions, Church community news and contact information. Other information modules as well as custom templates for the web pages will be introduced soon. 

Under development since January of 2007, Christian Archives is a private, independently owned entity created to assist churches in making the transition from traditional media storage and distribution to the online world of digital storage and distribution easier - a world that's more efficient, cost-effective, convenient, and immediate.

A Christian Archives Basic Church Membership is free. Members are supplied with 1.5 GB of storage capacity to archive their materials - roughly the equivalent of fifty 30-minute audio files or twenty-five 30-minute video files. Member churches can manage their own archives to stay within these limits indefinitely, or take advantage of cost-effective Tiered Membership levels to expand their storage space.

Christian Archives provides members and visitors with a host of features including the Knowledge Base, a constantly growing resource of easy-to-search direct links to relevant articles, information and websites on more than 200 church and Christian topics. Topics range from theological to business to building materials, and everything in between.

Yet another Christian Archives feature is Marketplace, another constantly expanding resource that provides "locate, compare and contrast" shopping capability for a variety of church-related products and services.

www.christianarchives.org

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Berkleemusic Introduces Online Voice Technique 101

Spring Term starts on April 6th.

Voice study is the secret to attainment for many contemporary vocal artists performing in Houses of Worship. Vocal Techniques 101 is an introductory course designed to teach vocalists how to make the voice sound more powerful, how to use vocal technique to expand musical range and expression, and how to become more confident in vocal recitals and singing with choirs. This course is a superb starting point for anyone wanting to make the most of their voice in both the traditional setting or in the more progressive forms of ecclesiastical music.  

To learn more, visit : http://www.berkleemusic.com/school/courses/voice

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Broadcast Pix Introduces First 3G 1080p Upgradeable Switchers

Broadcast Pix announces the Slate G Series, which enhances and replaces its current generation of live integrated production systems. Now shipping, the Slate G Series has a new quad workstation that houses the Slate video processing boards, and is upgradable to 3Gb/s 1080p boards expected later this year. The new Slate G Series are the only 3G upgradeable switchers.  Compared to conventional HD switchers, 3G provides higher quality pictures and effects, superior multi-definition support, and adds 1080p I/O.  The 3G upgrade is priced at just $11,900 for 1 M/E models and $18,900 for 2 M/E models. 

The new G Series streamline workflow with new features announced today and available now.  New watch-folder software enables content from edit stations to be sent over a network into the G Series, even during a live production.  The watch-folders feed Slate's integrated clip stores and still stores, which have now been upgraded to HD.  New HD clip formats include Apple ProRes, MPEG4 and AVC/H.264.  The built-in Inscriber CG is also now upgraded to HD.  The Slate G Series and a prototype of its 3G upgrade will be shown at NAB in the Broadcast Pix booth (SU2617).

According to Broadcast Pix President Ken Swanton, "Compared to conventional control rooms, Slate already was a much easier and more cost-effective way to create compelling live video. Today the G Series adds the easiest production workflow for graphics and clips, and soon with the 3G upgrade, it will leapfrog conventional HD equipment in picture quality as well."

Five new Slate G Series models were announced today, and are priced the same as the models they replace.  They are ideal for broadcasters, webcasters, entertainment, education, corporate, religious and other live production studios. 

The Emerging 3G 1080p Video Production Standard
3G is named for its data rate, 3Gb/s 1080p, which is twice the data rate of conventional HD.  Routers have already transitioned to 3Gb/s because it offers significant advantages over conventional HD  that are even more important for production switchers.  Broadcast Pix is one of only two 3G production switchers or video production systems planned for a 2009 debut at this time.  The other is a much more expensive family that does not include a 1 M/E model.

3Gb/s creates a superior "multi-definition" switcher.  The fundamental problem with conventional multi-def HD switchers is that they lose image quality, such as when using a mixture of 720p and 1080i cameras and other sources, or providing outputs in different formats.  Upscaling 720p cameras to 1080i means the final output will not have all of its spatial resolution.  In the other direction, de-interlacing 1080i sources to output 720p creates artifacts.  A 3G 1080p switcher solves both of these problems, providing a superior multi-def switcher, with lossless use in both mixing of 1080p, 1080i, 720p and SD inputs, and in simultaneous output of all.  

1080p progressive processing is also inherently less prone to motion artifacts than conventional interlaced HD switchers, and so progressive processing improves picture quality whenever the switcher processes motion, which includes transitions, picture-in-picture boxes and 4:3 / 16:9 aspect correction.  Broadcast Pix is a leader in progressive processing, as all Slate switchers have always had progressive processing.

3G switchers will also take advantage of all the emerging 1080p equipment.  In addition to 3G routers and terminal gear, there are now affordable 1080p LCD and plasma monitors, computers with 1080p outputs, projectors with 1080p inputs, and 3G cameras are emerging.

Each of the five new Slate G Series models is a complete live video production system.  The Slate 100G is priced at $10,995 in SD and $14,400 in HD, with one channel of clip store, five channels of graphics, Inscriber CG, multi-view monitor and 16:9 / 4:3 aspect correction.  The Slate 1000G adds a control panel. The Slate 2100G and 3000G add more I/O and redundancy. The Slate 5000G has a larger control panel and 2 M/E switcher.   Previous Slate systems can upgrade to the new G Series, for prices starting at $3,900.

For more information, go to www.broadcastpix.com.  

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Shure Debuts New Recording Microphones and XLR-to-USB Adapter

Shure Incorporated debuts three new products – the PG27USB and PG42USB Side-Address Condenser Microphones and the X2U XLR-to-USB Signal Adapter.  In addition, Shure introduced XLR models of the new microphones, the PG27 and PG42.

"Over the past several years, more and more musicians, both professional and amateur, have taken recording into their own hands at home, on the road, in their bedroom, basement, tour bus…wherever," said Chad Wiggins, Category Manager, Wired Microphones.  "With these new products, we're bringing the legendary heritage of Shure microphones to every level of performer and home recording artist as the proliferation of digital recording continues."

The PG27USB and PG42USB microphones connect professional-caliber Shure microphones to any USB computer port with "Plug and Play" performance.  The cardioid condenser microphones feature built-in headphone monitoring with zero latency and monitor mix control, enabling users to instantly hear what they're recording through headphones and make adjustments on-the-go, which makes them excellent tools for multi-track recording.  Both microphones are durable enough for everyday use and practice, but sophisticated enough for advanced recording by the most discerning artists.

"Now anyone can connect a Shure microphone to their computer to create their music," said Scott Sullivan, Senior Director of Product Marketing and Development.  "We realized that musicians who create digital recordings are looking for three things – superior equipment to translate their sound; the ability to hear themselves…monitoring; and the ability to accurately adjust their monitor mix.  We're delivering all of this with our new USB microphones and the X2U adapter."

The PG27 and PG42 are XLR counterparts to the USB models.  The key difference between the PG27, PG27USB, PG42, and PG42USB microphones is the application for which they were designed:

• The PG27 and PG27USB feature a flat, neutral frequency response for natural reproduction of a wide variety of instrument and vocal sound sources.
• The PG42 and PG42USB were specifically engineered to reproduce the subtle nuances of lead vocals. The large diaphragm allows for higher sensitivity to clearly reproduce refined performances.  The low-cut filter and external shock-mount further optimize performance for vocals.

Other unique features include:

• Large diaphragm capsule: Provides wider dynamic range, clear highs, and strong lows.
• USB "Plug and Play" Connectivity for the PG27USB and PG 42USB: Enables convenient digital recording, anywhere your computer goes.
• Integrated pre-amp with Microphone Gain Control: Allows precise control of input signal level to prevent overload of the analog-to-digital converter.
• Zero Latency Monitoring: For real-time playback and multi-tracking without disorientation.
• Headphone Jack: For monitoring with 1/8" connectivity.
• Monitor Mix Control: For blending microphone and playback audio.

X2U XLR-to-USB Signal Adapter

The Shure X2U Adapter is a modular accessory that connects any XLR microphone to a computer to create better-than-CD quality recordings.  As home recording flourishes, the X2U redefines what amateur musicians and podcasters can do in their homes and on the go.  The X2U mimics the sleek, beautiful design of Shure's iconic SM57 and SM58 microphones and can be used unobtrusively for live and in-studio recording.  The X2U's unique features include:

• USB "Plug and Play" Connectivity: Enables the convenience of digital recording, anywhere your computer can go (compatible with Windows Vista, XP, 2000, and Mac OS X 10.1 or above).
• Integrated pre-amp with Microphone Gain Control: Allows precise control of input signal level to prevent overload of the analog-to-digital converter.
• Zero Latency Monitoring: Enables real-time playback and facilitates multi-tracking without disorientation.
• Headphone Jack: For monitoring with standard 1/8" connectivity.
• Monitor Mix Control: For blending microphone and playback audio.
• 48-volt Phantom Power:  For compatibility with all condenser microphones.

Pricing and Availability

• X2U Adapter: $129.00 retail [$154.00 MSRP]
• PG27USB: $199.00 retail [$238.00 MSRP]
• PG42USB: $249.00 retail [$298.00 MSRP]

The PG27, PG27USB, PG42, and PG42USB Side Address Condenser Microphones and X2U Signal Adapter will be available in spring 2009 and will carry a two-year limited warranty.  The products can be purchased at select retail partners and the X2U will also be available at www.shure.com.  Check www.shure.com for a complete list of Authorized Dealers.

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Elation's Touch-sensitive ART-1024 DMX Wall-mount Keypad

Putting the right "touch" on a building's lighting has never been easier, thanks to Elation Professional's new ART-1024 touch-sensitive DMX wall-mount controller. The ART-1024 lets users run all of a building's DMX fixtures and different lighting zones from one compact keypad unit.
 
The ART-1024 comes with its own proprietary software that makes it simple to program shows and scenes from a PC.  Then, once lighting programs have been created, they can easily be uploaded and triggered on the ART-1024's convenient touch-sensitive keypad.
 
Designed as a single-controller solution for all types of DMX lighting, the ART-1024's programming software includes built-in effects for multi-categories of fixtures: LEDs, moving lights and dimmers.  It features 2 DMX universes, providing the capacity to control a total of 1,024 channels.
 
In addition to different types of fixtures, the ART-1024 can take command of lighting in different areas, rooms and spaces within a building. The trim, compact unit can control up to 5 different zones, with up to 8 different programs in each zone. For example, operators can designate a foyer, or hallway as separate zones, each with their own lighting programs triggered to change at different times of day.
 
Like the shows themselves, the zones can be created in the software, then transferred to the ART-1024's memory.  The software includes a realtime clock and calendar, allowing users to program specific times and dates for shows to play in each zone.  The shows will then be triggered and turned off automatically – so your lighting will always perform exactly as you want, without requiring any operator to run the controller. Lighting fixtures can also be set to move and chase to music, thanks to an internal microphone and audio input that are built into the unit.
 
The ART-1024 was created to provide a complete control solution to complement Elation's growing ELAR line of architectural lighting fixtures, said Eric Loader, the company's director of sales.  "Our customers told us that they wanted an easy and affordable way to program and control all of the DMX lighting within an architectural installation," Loader commented.  "The small but powerful ART-1024 offers just such a solution. Its programming software is very simple to use, yet it can handle virtually any type of DMX-compatible fixture, and it can run lighting in different zones simultaneously.  Plus, like all Elation products, it offers a great value --its price is much lower than you might expect to pay for this type of control package."
 
Developed by the same designers who created Elation's CompuLive PC-based lighting control software, the ART-1024 package includes: the keypad unit, PC programming software; USB cable for unit-to-PC connection; user manual; power supply; and 512MB mini SD card, which serves as the unit's memory. One feature is that the controller's memory can be expanded by upgrading to a larger SD card (not included), since the unit will accept cards of more than 512MB.
 
Continual upgrades to the controller and software will also be available from Elation. The company plans to add new features to the ART-1024 in mid-2009, including a dedicated remote control and Ethernet networking. Some future features will require a firmware upgrade, which will be provided to customers free of charge.
 
The MSRP of the ART-1024 lighting control package is $1,199.95.  PC requirements to run the ART-1024's programming software include a Windows XP or Vista operating system, 32 bits and USB 2.0.
 
For more information, call Elation Professional toll-free at 1-866-245-6726 or visit www.elationlighting.com

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