Trinity Church's New Entasys System is Heard but Barely Seen

For Trinity United Methodist Church in Philipsburg, Pennsylvania, sound has always been an issue. The sanctuary's soaring peaked roof and exceptionally live acoustics lends a majestic touch to the choir, bell choir and pipe organ, but rendered the sermons nearly unintelligible. That was the conflict confronting Music Mart's Tom Gallagher.

"The room had a three-second reverb time, and the musicians loved what it did for the sound," says Gallagher. "But for the pastor, anyone more than about 20 feet away could barely get a word out of the sermons. We had to find a way to improve the intelligibility factor without resorting to any acoustic treatment that would impact the room's resonance."

Gallagher found the solution in Community Professional's new Entasys, a compact, high-performance column line array system. "We looked into using a steerable array, but it wasn't really practical for their budget, and was almost a bit of overkill for a 400-seat room," he observes. Using a combination of Entasys full-range and low frequency columns, he was able to provide even coverage across the entire area with minimal impact on the church's budget, or the sanctuary's aesthetics.

"The columns are less than six inches wide, and most of the congregation didn't even notice them," says Gallagher. "We mounted one full-range and two low-frequency units on either side of the chancel, and one more full-range unit up high and a bit further back to cover the balcony, and that's all we needed." Using the Entasys pan-tilt and fly kit brackets, the columns are tilted forward and angled slightly inward, providing tight, focused coverage to the seating areas. "The columns are only about four feet from the lectern, but the pattern control is tight enough that there's virtually no problem with feedback," he adds. "And we had to do almost no equalization – they sounded great right out of the box."

Patricia Coldiron, the church's Music Director, is equally pleased. "Our old, outdated system was always a challenge to work with," she says. "The new system enhances not only our music program but also the spoken word presentations." A single Community SLS920 cabinet provides monitoring for the musicians. Crest amplification powers the system, and a single Rane RPM88 unit provides signal processing for the entire system.

Gallagher reports that, while much of the congregation barely saw the new speakers, virtually everyone heard the difference. "I had people coming up to me and asking me what had changed," he says. "All of a sudden they could hear the sermon, and they couldn't figure out why until I pointed out the columns."

For more information, please visit www.communitypro.com

The first Audio, Visual, Lighting Conference and Expo (AVL Expo), presented by premier systems integration firm Advanced Broadcast Solutions (ABS) and Experience Church.tv earlier this month, exceeded expectations, with representatives from more than 100 churches attending the conference. Specifically designed for the worship community, the two-day conference at Experience Church.tv in Puyallup, Wash., featured panel discussions and conference sessions, plus a select group of almost 20 vendors that specifically address the needs of AV practitioners and church pastors.

Dennis Cummins, Senior Pastor at ExperienceChurch.tv, said the AVL Expo program appealed to small and medium-sized churches. "We were able to share our story along with much of the pain that was associated in our process of putting all the media pieces together," he said. "When they saw another church that was relatable and what we have accomplished it inspired them to new levels of hope."

With ABS as its technology partner, Experience Church.tv has embraced an innovative approach to incorporating the latest AV technologies into its ministry. "Many were surprised at our level of disclosure. We were an open book and so many found it refreshing. They can't wait for more," said Cummins. "They also appreciated the generosity of Advanced Broadcast Solutions' Mark Siegel for sponsoring this event and his technical team that provided outstanding insight. Many of the churches are now moving forward with fund raising and planning for implementing the solutions presented to them at AVL."

Presentations covered a variety of topics, from Web-based media to raising capital for technology needs, but audio, video, and lighting topics all seemed to draw interest from attendees. "I think they were able to see that it is all an integral part in the creation or development of their church," Cummins explained. "Since most of the churches work with volunteer staffing, they realized how important it was for all three areas to play nice with each other – and that it wasn't a competition between departments."

"We couldn't be happier with AVL Expo, and Experience Church.tv was the ideal partner for this type of conference," said Mark Siegel, President of ABS. "The event was an outstanding opportunity for us to share information and establish new relationships. We're already considering ideas for next year's conference – based on the feedback we received from our attendees, AVL Expo is just getting started."

For more info, please visit www.advancedbroadcastsolutions.com (ABS) and www.experiencechurch.tv

NEW PRODUCTS
01.	Mackie Unleashes HD Series Powered Loudspeakers
	Mackie launches the HD Series High-Definition Powered Loudspeakers, creating what company press release calls an entirely new category: High-Definition Live Sound. The HD1521 2-way and HD1531 3-way, Class-D amplifier system, delivers up to 1800W of peak system power. Mackie’s legacy of producing precision crossovers, transducer time alignment and phase correction circuitry right in the box are evident in the new HD Series loudspeakers. The new line includes a patented acoustic correction processing that counters inherent physical attributes that can make typical loudspeakers sound honky or washed out. "Our new HD Series loudspeakers are on the cutting edge of loudspeaker technology," said Greg Young, Mackie brand product manager. "They offer more watts per dollar than the competition and the sonic clarity is nothing short of amazing." With custom transducer design and system tuning by the high-end touring experts at EAW, HD Series loudspeakers feature 15? neodymium woofers, matched with the 1.75? heat-treated titanium compression driver. The HD1531 3-way also features a 6? midrange driver and Mackie's optimized WaveFront mid/high horn system for ultra-wide, consistent coverage. A user-adjustable 3-band EQ with a sweepable mid lets the user gently and flexibly EQ the system for the application at hand. This is a great feature for smaller setups that may not have a ton of outboard gear. The rugged all-wood cabinets feature 12 integral fly-points for horizontal or vertical rigging and both models are pole-mountable. Integrated protection circuitry and robust build quality ensures years of reliable use. "HD loudspeakers deliver immense power, are ultra-compact and lightweight and offer unmatched clarity," added Young. "We truly elevate the experience for the audience, not to mention the engineer." HD Series High-Definition Powered Loudspeakers will be available in May 2009. The HD1521 will be $1,249.99 MSRP, and the HD1531 will be $1,499.99 MSRP. For more information, please visit www.mackie.com
02.	Martin LC Plus a New Generation of LED Video Panels
	Available now is the LC Plus Series from Martin Professional, a modular system of LED video panels with new generation technology that closely integrates light, video and set design for new possibilities in indoor and outdoor staging. The LC Plus is an easy-to-use, all-in-one video solution. Martin's LC Plus offers several key advantages over other types of LED panels: High brightness, 3000 Nit Extremely low weight - only 11 kg per square meter Fast and easy set up Superb color and brightness uniformity True IP65 protection and wide temperature range for extended outdoor use P3 Architecture The LC Plus is built around Martin's new and innovative P3 technology platform (Pixel Push Protocol) for video signal processing and distribution. Based on Gigabit Ethernet and Cat5e wiring, the P3 technology removes the inherent limitations of video-type protocols for easy connectivity and speed of set-up. The Ethernet based system is true plug and play, eliminating the limitations of DVI, fiber optic and coax (SDI) cable connections. Fast and easy to assemble, any cable can be up to 100 m in length and up to 50 panels can be daisy chained (no splitters or buffers needed) for virtually unlimited design possibilities. The LC Plus uses robust RJ45 connectors and the Gigabit Ethernet technology enables 500,000 pixels with 48 bit data to be updated 60 times per second for broadcast-quality, smooth, step-free images. Latency (delay) is virtually undetectable meaning the image on the LC Plus screen is in perfect sync with the live performer. For easy set up, the LC Plus uses a display and button system familiar to any user of MAC luminaires. With no external power supplies, each LC Plus unit comes with everything built in - substantially reducing logistical costs and set-up time. P3-100 System Processor P3 technology is directed via a P3-100 System Processor, an ultra robust processing unit that contains several key features. Built in scaling and de-interlacing Supports multiple video protocols and resolutions including DVI and most analog formats Allows key parameters including brightness and image mapping to be manipulated in real time Built-in graphical user interface Images can be previewed on a local display (in real time) Allows mapping of functions to DMX512 channels Settings can be conveniently stored on a USB stick LC Plus panels communicate with the P3-100 Processor to report any problems Consistency in color and brightness With 14 bits per color the LC Plus image is extraordinary, even at greatly reduced screen brightness settings. Each LC Plus panel is pixel-level calibrated at Martin's state-of-the-art calibration facility are designed to produce perfect color consistency from panel to panel. Indoors or out The LC Plus's high level of brightness - 3000 nits (cd/m²) - is more than sufficient for most indoor uses and bright enough for many outdoor applications. A true IP65 protection rating and wide operating temperature range of -20o to +40o C means the LC Plus is suitable for most types of outdoor entertainment including permanent installations such as theme parks, cruise ships or other outdoor areas. Semi-transparent The LC Plus panels are 60% transparent and allow light and effects to pass through (audio, smoke and air too), creating increased possibilities for multi-layered looks. Dim the panels and they seem to disappear, revealing objects or performers placed upstage. In architectural applications the LC Plus panels can be placed behind windows to allow sunlight into interior spaces. 40 mm pixel pitch The LC Plus's 40 mm pixel pitch is small enough for clear images at a distance and vivid graphics up close, and allows for a high level of transparency and a low weight. Image quality is significantly better than typical low-resolution LED screens and the LC Plus panels are considerably less costly than higher resolution screens. Wide viewing angle The LC Plus features a very wide 100° horizontal viewing angle to cover not only the front but also the sides where viewers tend to miss out. Hassle–free Essentially maintenance free, the LC Plus panels are completely convection cooled and use no fans which means no noise, fewer parts to fail, less cleaning, and greater reliability. A robust cast aluminum housing for the electronics not only provides complete protection but gives the panels a contemporary, streamlined look. Upgrade existing LC Series panels Owners of existing Martin LC Series panels can upgrade their inventory with LC Plus electronics, which adds many of the LC Plus features. For more information, please visit www.martin.com
03.	Panasonic AW-HE870 2/3-Inch 3-CCD High Definition Convertible Camera
	Panasonic has announced the immediate availability of the AW-HE870N, a 2/3" HD/SD convertible camera that supports 1080i/720p/480i image acquisition. Delivering affordable image capture for a wide range of applications and lighting conditions, the HE870 is compatible with most 2/3-inch motor drive zoom lenses, all current Panasonic Broadcast pan/tilts and controllers, and many third-party systems. The HE870 offers a simple upgrade path to HD for thousands of Panasonic SD camera customers. The versatility, high video quality, and cost effectiveness of the HE870 makes it ideal for use in education, government, houses of worship, corporate, rental and staging, and other applications. The HE870 is the latest addition to Panasonic's best-selling lineup of HD convertible cameras, which includes the native 1080i resolution AK-HC1800N and the high-performance AK-HC1500G. The HE870's new 38-bit digital signal processor (DSP) and 14-bit A/D converter deliver super-sharp images. The camera's high sensitivity is measured at f11 at 2000 lux for superb video capture in varied lighting conditions. Panasonic's advanced spatial-offset, image-processing technologies provide exceptional high definition imaging, and 12-axis color correction allows for precise control and matching of HD video. The multi-format HE870 provides switchable HD/SD component output at 1080/59.94i, 720/59.94p, or 480/59.94i, along with SD composite output. The optional AW-HHD870 output card adds two distributed SDI outputs (HD/SD switchable) and a Zoom/Focus control port. The HE870's other features include: flesh tone noise suppression, shutter speeds ranging from 1/100 to 1/10000 second, a Syncro-Scan mode (61.19 Hz to 1466 Hz) to eliminate flicker when shooting a television or computer monitor, genlock, DC 12V operation, and a low power consumption of 18 watts. The compact, 2.6-pound AW-HE870 is the same size as Panasonic's popular AW-E860 SD camera and employs the same connectors and an upgraded version of the same remote control software. The HE870 is also compatible with Panasonic's comprehensive line of high performance pan-tilt systems, including the AW-RP655, AW-RP555, AW-RP400, AW-CB400 controllers, and the AW-H360, AW-PH400, AW-PH405 and AW-PH650 pan/tilt heads. The camera is compatible with Fujinon and Canon 2/3" HD motor drive lenses, and with many other third party peripherals and systems from Telemetrics, Telescript, Telecast and others. Previously installed control systems may require a firmware upgrade to access all of the new camera's features. The AW-HE870 is available now at a suggested list price of $11,500. The optional AW-HHD870 HD/SD-SDI output card is available at a suggested list price of $1,995. www.panasonic.com/broadcast

Creative Stage Lighting Becomes North American Distributor of Compulite Products
Creative Stage Lighting has announced that it is now the North American distributor of Compulite products. Compulite products, including the Vector series of lighting consoles, will be available to Creative Stage Lighting's Dealer Network. "This relationship with Compulite is very exciting and rounds out Creative's portfolio of the high quality products we distribute." said CSL President George B. Studnicky III. "The Creative Stage Lighting approach, taking on new products, along with its strong dealer network have made CSL a natural choice for Compulite. We are delighted to establish together a significant presence for our products in the market," said Compulite CEO Yehuda Shukrun.

Creative Stage Lighting recently announced its hiring of Michael Nevitt as Product Manager. Nevitt's responsibilities at CSL include supporting Compulite products sold in North America through Creative Stage Lighting. Vector Consoles are designed for use in theatre, opera and ballet, television, concert touring, theme parks, clubs, exhibitions, and industrial shows.

Featuring dual processors, Vector consoles provide a rich GUI with high performance and stability. The Vector line provides fast, flexible and intuitive programming for mega shows or smaller environments. The Vectors have a long and impressive track record. The upcoming Vector 3.16 version offers new features and enhancements offering more productivity, stability and capacity.

www.creativestagelighting.com
www.compulite.com

QSC Audio Extends Rebates
Great savings on premium products from QSC will be offered through July 6th of this year as part of an extended rebate program offering up to $150 back on a variety of models found within the RMX, PLX2, and HPR product groups.

Returning for more calendar dates thanks to overwhelming demand, the rebate applies to select models and is backed by a free six-year warranty with online registration. Valid on purchases made in the US by US residents, the money-back offer is yours simply by downloading a coupon online, filling it in, and returning it with required documentation by 7-6-09. To download the coupon in English follow this link:

http://www.qscaudio.com/rebate/RebateForm08WEBext.pdf

For a Spanish version of the document, visit:

http://www.qscaudio.com/rebate/RebateForm08WebSPext.pdf

www.qscaudio.com

Rational Acoustics Gets SMAART
Great savings on premium products from EAW announces that Rational Acoustics (www.rationalacoustics.com) is being awarded worldwide distribution of SMAART, the critically acclaimed software used for real-time sound system measurement, optimization and control. EAW and Rational Acoustics are entering into a two-stage agreement, under the terms of which, from today forward, all of the mechanics and infrastructure associated with the sales and distribution of SMAART are being modified, so that sales of SMAART is now conducted and supported by Rational Acoustics. Furthermore, within six months, Rational Acoustics will purchase SMAART outright and assume immediate responsibility of the management of the products.

Rational Acoustics, founded in early 2008 by Jamie and Karen Anderson, Calvert Dayton and Adam Black, has been working closely with EAW for the past year, offering SMAART support, development and an extensive training program. Karen Anderson, COO of Rational Acoustics and former Director of Marketing for EAW, states “It’s a very friendly and synergistic relationship which has benefited both companies as well as the SMAART user community.”

Jeffrey Cox, VP of EAW, states, “I am gratified that Rational Acoustics is moving forward with the distribution and support of SMAART, as well as ongoing development of the brand. SMAART is a core technology to our industry, and I know that Rational Acoustics will grow it and keep it in the premier position it holds in our business, and in our hearts.”

www.eaw.com
www.rationalacoustics.com