samedi 19 juillet 2014

Good Church Sound System Design Clarifies Words And Music

By Marylou Forbes


From elegant cathedral-like structures to humble store-front rooms in strip malls, most congregations have a weekly gathering place. While a house of worship is more than just a building, its acoustics determine whether worshipers can comfortably hear both music and message. Good church sound system design makes the difference between an involved and enthusiastic congregation, or one that is struggling just to hear.

Most people have experienced discomfort in rooms having problems with amplification, and understand how elaborate amplification setups may eliminate some problems, but can make others worse. The volume may be fine in one area, but ear-shattering across the room. Voices might be loud, but impossible to clearly understand. Podium speakers may seem far away or disembodied, or else obscured by embarrassing, ear-shattering feedback.

In some congregations, the addition of acoustic panels or thick carpet may eliminate echo entirely, while others fight heavy reverberation. People sitting in the front pews may hear the speaker adequately, but those a few rows back may miss most sentences. Inadequate microphones often provide good spoken vocal clarity, but cannot begin to handle the demands of amplified bass, drums or keyboards.

Church members sometimes attempt to correct these issues without outside help, even though acoustically fine-tuning a room for both music and sermon may be best accomplished through professional analysis and necessary equipment improvements. Most churches have limited resources, but the costs involved are only one factor in selecting the best components and controls. While sometimes necessary, spending a great deal may not be effective.

An experienced consultant begins an analysis by critically listening with both electronic devices and well-trained human ears. Most analysts employ specialized audio software designed to accurately outline the acoustical shape of a room, along with the problem areas where sound will either echo or disappear. This process helps to achieve a comfortable dynamic listening range for every single seat in the pews.

A single speaker may be enough for a small space, but using multiple sets can cause timing problems and other issues. Proper echo-control and balance eliminates most of those irritations, giving each listener the gift of clean, easy-to-process sound waves. Without the proper equipment, however, achieving accurate calibration can be frustrating or difficult, and a design company eliminates the guesswork.

Both music and spoken words are vital to church services, and a system must be able to handle both at the same time. Certain microphones are fine for vocal reproduction, but not for the combo that accompanies the singers, and can create a wall of distorted noise rather than amplifying an inspiring anthem. Choosing speakers because they are on sale can be disappointing, even though budgetary considerations are always important.

Installation is as important as design. An experienced system installer avoids code violations, and knows how to place wires to avoid inductive noise. In addition to tasteful concealment, proper speaker suspension helps ensure the safety of those sitting beneath. When the system is in place, most will also train members of the congregation to properly operate the electrical control panel.




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