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In late 2017 Meyer Sound announced its new very low frequency control (VLFC) element, a specially designed line array system capable of producing powerful subsonic frequencies in the 13-30 Hz range. Created for large-capacity rock and EDM concerts and festivals, the VLFC is also being targeted to cinematic and theme park applications, which aim to provide spectators the kind of wow factor that comes from sound that is felt as much as heard.
Given the similarities between these venues and the stylistic approach embraced by many modern churches, it’s certainly worth examining whether these new low frequency systems have a place in today’s tech ministries.
As many of our readers are aware, the human ear is commonly acknowledged to perceive frequencies between 20 and 20,000 Hz. The VLFC system, however, produces frequencies below this range with the express purpose of allowing people to "experience" the sound rather than simply hear it. The system literally creates variations in the air pressure, which translates into a physical sensation for audience members. The overall impact is far more powerful while still staying within safe sonic limitations. Moviegoers lucky enough to experience “Dunkirk” in IMAX in summer 2017 will be familiar with how big of a difference very low frequencies can make.
A Little Context
At first blush, it may be tempting to regard VLFC arrays as more of a special effect, better suited to show business than to worship experiences. But this kind of thinking actually runs contrary to hundreds of years of church history. For centuries large churches and cathedrals have been home to pipe organs capable of producing these kinds of low frequencies. In fact, recent sound analysis indicates that some pipe organs are capable of producing frequencies as low as 3.5 Hz with peaks at 6 Hz.
Given the effort and expense of creating instruments capable of producing these astoundingly low frequency ranges, often without the assistance of electricity, it’s crucial to remember just why churches embraced organs in the first place. Since the beginning of the church, music has been an indispensable way to point people toward the spiritual, ethereal realms. People would travel from all around the world to experience worship that incorporated these ultra-low frequencies. The worshipper could literally feel the music, creating a new sense of wonder and awe of God and his creation.
Even to this day, many people associate the very low frequencies common to church organ music with that same spirituality. Composer Hans Zimmer even utilized that unique emotional resonance within his original score for “Interstellar” in order to musically express the eternal. Ultimately, churches that choose to incorporate VLFC technologies would actually be embracing a long tradition of bringing heaven closer to earth for their congregations.
VLFC In Modern Worship
There are a number of innovative ways tech ministries and sound engineers can begin utilizing very low frequencies in worship settings. The most immediate impact would likely be felt through the subtle incorporation of VLFC within congregational worship music. When used sparingly, lower frequencies can enhance modern, blended and even traditional worship music styles in a way that could be embraced by multiple generations.
For ministries utilizing secular music or EDM styles of music, very low frequencies will increase the visceral engagement levels for first-time visitors. These systems can also be used to up the wow factor for special event openings and feature moments. Additionally, as churches grow their original filmmaking abilities, VLFC systems will dramatically impact the creative potential of these types of expressions.
Next Steps
A good first step for tech directors ready to explore incorporating VLFC arrays into their tool kits may be to start by casting a vision to church leadership and stakeholders. One effective way to illustrate the impact of increased frequency ranges would be to host a double feature movie outing, where a leadership team can experience a big-budget movie twice, first in a regular theater, followed by watching the same film in IMAX. This side-by-side comparison will likely be more effective than all the charts, graphics and slideshows in the world.
Once your executive leadership has an idea of how effective VLFC systems can be, it’s usually wise to begin exploring how they can both enhance the worship experience and increase worship engagement in your specific context. Helping pastors understand the history of very low frequencies in worship will also help alleviate any concerns about simply chasing the entertainment factor. When it’s all said and done, these systems should ultimately be seen as another effective tool to reach people with the Gospel in new and dynamic ways.
