United Methodist Church Memorial Centre Phase 2
Church InstallationThe Power Of Relationship
This project is testament of the value of relationship and networking. The United Methodist Church, Memorial Centre in Lubumbashi needed a permanent installed sound system for their building. They contacted a worship leader friend, who referred them to us. I paid a visit to their facility to discuss their requirements.
Starting Point
Our first point of action was to improve the acoustics in the room. With all the smooth surfaces, including many windows, the room was “very live”. With our team at TMB Acoustics, we designed panels and taught their local team to build and install the panels. More details of this part of the project on https://techmin.co.za/project/united-methodist-church-memorial-centre-drc/
System Design
The next step was to design the sound system. This is where our local design team at Martin Audio came to the party. A Martin Audio WPC system was spec’d, and we were able to show the client the coverage possible with the system. The under-balcony area, side sections and delays were also taken care of with smaller point source speakers.
On acceptance of our proposal, we were able to prepare the equipment, including preprogramming the amplifiers’ DSP, ready to be run on installation. Obviously, there’s some tweaking involved once the system is in, but this is minimized with the preparation before shipping. The speaker system was paired with an Allen & Heath Avantis mixing console and GX4816 stage box, which allows 48 inputs and 16 returns on the platform. The two are linked together with a CAT6e cable. We used Sennheiser wireless microphones, with paddles to increase coverage on the stage
Installation Design Change
The installation plan had to be adjusted due to the weight capacity of the building’s roof structure. The engineers had informed us that the roof would not be able to hold the weight of the full system. We then opted to put the subwoofers on the floor. With the change in position of the subwoofer, we had to adjust the original settings done in the DSP, to adapt to the new position. The center subwoofer was also reverse to eliminate the low frequency behind the system.
Placement
Although it is ideal for mix position to be in the audience or congregation, it is not always possible for the security of the equipment. So, a booth was built in the back of the venue to house the mix position. The stage box, wireless microphone receivers and amplification was housed in a steel rack on stage.
Backline
We then further supplied backline, including drums with drum screen, guitars and keyboard. We were able to provide a full solution to our client, including training on completion of the installation.
Project Gallery
