The Client

Project Brief

Upgrade to a modern AV system

Ever faithful to the school’s Latin motto, “Da Nobis Recta Sapere” or “Grant that we may be truly wise”, in early 2022, the school decided the time was right to completely replace and upgrade to a modern AV system.

One that would fulfill the school’s increasing need for including a much wider range of content and visual media. It would also provide enhanced and versatile delivery technology to handle regular school meetings, announcements, lectures, presentations, ceremonies and other events. 

Sound Division was invited to tender for the project on recommendation. Chosen principally for its technical expertise, understanding of the project brief/requirement and package specification. The company was also able to work to a short lead time and install during the August School holiday.

Sound Division’s customised specification for the project came in three parts:

• AUDIO — Public address & sound management 
• VIDEO — Visual image projection
• LIGHTING — Stage lighting/illumination

System Solution

Audio system

To provide clear sound reinforcement across the wide span of the assembly hall, Sound Division specified Martin Blackline X8 Compact 8” Speakers, in a white finish, powered by a Crown DCi400 Digital Amplifier.

The existing audio rack cabinet was completely rebuilt, together with new audio equipment including a BSS Soundweb Blu100 digital sound management device for configurable signal processing and high bandwidth.

A Mackie DL16S 16 channel digital mixer with inbuilt WiFi was also supplied for ‘dynamic’ live voice and sound mixing. Complemented by a bespoke Apple iPad, programmed for further remote, sound management duties.

To complement the public address facility an industry standard Audio Technica ES925C 15” cardioid ‘gooseneck’ mic was installed to the existing lectern. Sound Division also provided a pair of Sennheiser EW-D835-S digital, handheld radio mic systems for general stage use.

Video equipment

Sound Division installed two Sapphire 2.4M wide 16:9 electric projection screens in white housings one each side of the hall stage. A pair of white Ben-Q LU930 DLP 5000 ansi-lumen high powered laser projectors were flown, suspended from the existing ceiling rigs.

A Blustream HD based-T data extension system was installed to enable the distribution of a HDMI signal over the long distance between a laptop source and two projectors. And would provide matrix switching of the display material.

Lighting the stage

Upgrading the stage lighting system involved replacing all previous lighting fixtures. Chauvet lighting was chosen for its excellent performance and competitive price alongside sister brand, Chamsys, as the control desk.

Chauvet Ovation F-series LED Fresnel washes, Chauvet EVE 50’s spots, and CYC1FC Cyclorama floods were selected as an all-round, flexible system of fixtures, perfect for general secondary school hall applications.  

The very-user friendly and affordable Chamsys Quick Q10 compact-lighting desk – specifically aimed at school hall procurement – was selected for programming lighting shows. Ten regular scenes were also loaded onto a Chamsys push-button, wall-mounted remote panel.

To accommodate the free flow of DMX data between the lighting rig and control system a Chauvet ArtNet Xll 8-way distribution unit was also installed.  

To ensure no interruption to the daily schedules, Sound Division completed the entire project on a short turn around during the summer vacation when the school was closed.  

At the start of the new academic year user training was provided to selected staff.

End game

Sound Division’s David Graham said, “We’ve been involved in a number of AV refurbs for schools, colleges and places of worship over the years. Each has their own specific requirements. It’s always a pleasure to devise individual technical solutions to meet the demands for a high-quality production level”.