Tag: noho

San Lorenzo High School Sounds Off With New Technomad Turnkey PA System

Bay Area systems integrator chooses Technomad for high quality, durability and ease of installation

BOSTON, March 4, 2013 San Lorenzo High School, part of the San Lorenzo Unified School District in the Bay Area of California, has installed a new Technomad Turnkey PA System to electrify sports and special events in its outdoor campus stadium.  The complete solution, including four weatherproof loudspeakers and a complete, pre-wired signal processing equipment rack, will deliver superior audio quality to up to 1,500 spectators come spring.

The new audio system is the first of its kind at the high school.  The timing of the installation ensures the system will improve public address quality for this year’s graduation ceremony, and will otherwise inject new life into home athletic events.

“This installation represents a significant milestone for San Lorenzo High School, as it had no real PA system previously in place and was relying on outdated field horns for use during sporting events,” said Rick McKinney, owner and president of the Hayward, California-based Lloyd F. McKinney Associates, which managed the installation.

San Lorenzo High School sought a versatile, great-sounding solution that covered the entire stadium and could remain outdoors year-round.  The local climate produces heavy rains and winds in the winter months, and the school wanted to avoid the costs of replacing damaged equipment.

“We knew Technomad was the perfect match for this project when we heard their requirements,” said McKinney.  “We’ve worked with Technomad many times, and we knew the superior clarity, versatility and fully weatherproof design of their loudspeakers were right in line with the school’s needs.  The audio is crisp and clear, and if they get soaked it won’t make a difference in sound quality.”

McKinney chose Technomad Noho weatherproof loudspeakers, noting that they generate a very broad and smooth response, with plenty of power to cover the entire field.  He mounted two on the home side and two on the visitor’s side to provide more flexibility for music and band-related productions.  The complete solution includes the pre-wired signal processing rack, with an amplifier and mixer; and all required cables and connectors for the loudspeaker installation.

Despite some rain delays, McKinney had the system up and running in a few weeks.  “Rain softened the ground, so we had to install plywood to keep the scissor lift from sinking into the new grass,” he said.  “Once secured, we quickly mounted the loudspeakers, attached the cables, plugged in the mixer and amplifier, and turned on the system.  It was seamless.”

McKinney notes that the input connector for an iPod and Mp3 player in the signal processing rack is a favorite feature.  He added a wireless solution for field-level iPod control for special events.

“Features like this are important for good sound quality,” he said.  “We live in a highly connected, audio-rich environment, and today’s adolescents expect the same audio quality from pre-show and halftime music that they get from their iPods and Mp3 players.  The Technomad system delivers on this, and the Nohos reproduce the full musical range, with plenty of high end and very good lows and mids.”

McKinney is planning another Technomad installation at Arroyo High School in the same school district this spring.  In the meantime he is relishing the success of this project for good reason.

“My children and my wife were educated through the San Lorenzo Unified School District, and I attended from the fifth grade,” McKinney said.  “I’m honored to have directed this installation.”

ABOUT TECHNOMAD

Technomad LLC, founded in 1995, designs and manufactures loudspeaker systems for the professional audio and security/military technology industries.  The company invented the first reliable full-range weatherproof loudspeaker and now offers nine models ranging in power from 60-watt loudspeakers to 1250-watt subwoofers — most available in Turnkey PA System packages featuring amplifiers, mixers and other signal processing equipment in pre-wired racks.  The company also manufactures a variety of audio infrastructure and communications equipment including playback and recording systems, weatherproof power amplifiers and turnkey remote audio systems.  Contact Technomad at 617-275-8898 or visit http://www.technomad.com for more information.

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Technomad Loudspeakers Upgrade Audio in French Football Stadium

New system complies with Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) standards thanks to broad audio dispersion, high voice intelligibility of Noho loudspeakers

BOSTON, January 28, 2013 — A French football stadium in the Corsican city of Ajaccio, France, has completed audio upgrades compliant to league standards, with seven Technomad advanced audio loudspeakers covering the entire venue.

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Home club AC Ajaccio recently transitioned to Ligue 2, also known as Division 2 in the LFP French professional football league.  The league-imposed audio upgrades required a higher measure of intelligibility and audio coverage throughout the stadium — a quality the previous audio system lacked.

Systems integration company Atacc International worked with French Technomad dealer Audiopole to develop the new system, ensuring intelligible voice and music is audible throughout the stands.  The design also considered financial and structural challenges, including minimal hanging points for the latter.  But the challenge of protecting gear in the open stadium air was top of mind for both companies.

“Our main concern was undoubtedly the weather, and Technomad loudspeakers are 100 percent weatherproof,” said Alain Castelli, manager, Atacc International.  “They can withstand wind, rain, moisture and temperatures as cold as 0 degrees Celsius in the winter; and as hot as 30 degrees Celsius in the summer.  The sea is also nearby, so salt corrosion was another concern.”  [  View current weather in Ajaccio ]

Audiopole provided an acoustic study of the stadium prior to installing the seven Technomad Noho loudspeakers in the stands, behind the goals, and within a VIP space and visitors area.  The study determined that the Noho was the best model for the project, providing excellent coverage and full-range audio — including ideal sensitivity for speech.  The complete system includes Yamaha amplifiers and mixers, a Shure ULX Series microphone, and an automated playout system for security announcements.

“This was our first time using Technomad, and we are very pleased,” said Castelli.  “The observed power of the Nohos in comparison to their size is very impressive, and the responsiveness from Audiopole was also excellent.”

ABOUT TECHNOMAD

Technomad LLC, founded in 1995, designs and manufactures loudspeaker systems for the professional audio and security/military technology industries.  The company invented the first reliable full-range weatherproof loudspeaker and now offers nine models ranging in power from 60-watt loudspeakers to 1250-watt subwoofers — most available in Turnkey PA System packages featuring amplifiers, mixers and other signal processing equipment in pre-wired racks.  The company also manufactures a variety of audio infrastructure and communications equipment including playback and recording systems, weatherproof power amplifiers and turnkey remote audio systems.  Contact Technomad at 617-275-8898 or visit http://www.technomad.com for more information.

 

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Technomad Improves Mounting Options for Sound Contractors and Integrators

Technomad is now shipping a highly robust stainless steel mounting solution for its high-power AS Series of weatherproof advanced audio loudspeakers. Its fixed position mounting design eliminates sagging common with friction mounts, ensuring long life outdoors and maximum stability for large loudspeakers.

Sized at 8″x12″x8″, the design offers numerous dedicated holes that allows installers to position any AS Series loudspeaker vertically or horizontally at a variety of angles. This gives sound designers, contractors and end users plenty of options to achieve the best angle and audio directivity. The stainless steel design prevents weather-related erosion over time, and stability is further reinforced through an included safety cable for harnessing. Pole-mount adaption is offered in the design as well to simplify lighting and telephone pole installations.

The AS Series consists of the largest and most powerful Technomad loudspeakers, including the Noho and all Berlin models (broad and narrow-dispersion). These loudspeakers are popular in stadiums, athletic field complexes, and other outdoor installations ranging from entertainment to mass notification applications.

Technomad Loudspeakers Blanket Larkin Square in Buffalo with Brilliant Audio Quality

Noho C and Vienna weatherproof loudspeakers deliver high-quality music, intelligible announcements across large new public space

BOSTON, August 7, 2012 – The Larkin Development Group of Buffalo, NY has unveiled a multi-purpose public space in the Larkin District of Buffalo, NY to further unite the community.  The newly developed Larkin Square is alive with outdoor concerts, retail markets, office buildings, lounge areas and more, bringing people together in a vibrant open-air environment.

Stretching the length of one city block, Larkin Square features an exceptional professional audio system equipped with 25 Technomad advanced audio loudspeakers.  The new audio system supports the “Live at Larkin” summer concert series, a weekly Wednesday evening entertainment series featuring local musicians and nationally recognized artists.

Local systems integration firm Powerhouse Pro Systems strategically positioned the loudspeakers throughout the square to maximize coverage for large audiences. The weatherproof loudspeakers deliver background music and announcements, including public safety information, to roughly 10,000 people gathered in the square each week.

The Technomad loudspeakers comprise a mix of the company’s Noho and Vienna loudspeakers, and were chosen for their ability to deliver intelligible voice and background music in a compact and durable package.  The weatherproof loudspeakers are unprotected from outdoor elements and deployed in a 70-volt configuration to accommodate lengthy cable runs.

Tony Spencer of the Buffalo-based Powerhouse Pro Systems installed the systems in cooperation with local electrical designer Paul Foxe of Wittburn Enterprises.  Spencer, in the AV installation business for more than two decades, consistently uses Technomad loudspeakers for their ability to withstand rigorous climates and project full-range audio with broad dispersion over long distances.

“Technomad loudspeakers were designed to perform under a multitude of weather conditions, whether it’s 90-degree heat in the summertime or below-zero temperatures during winter,” said Spencer. “We get both in Buffalo, so having durable, weatherproof construction that could withstand snow and ice buildup was of major importance.  We also wanted loudspeakers that offered good projection and delivered well-rounded audio with an admirable amount of bass.  The Noho and Vienna were the perfect fit for this project as they are the ideal size, and deliver superbly intelligible speech and unmatched audio.”

Spencer and Foxe installed 10 Noho loudspeakers on five light poles spread throughout the square. The two-per-light pole strategy ensures an even outdoor audio pattern outside with broad audio coverage at any volume.

The remaining 11 Nohos blanket a covered walkway area that can accommodate 1,000 people, with the loudspeakers positioned high above the crowds.  The Nohos in this section are evenly spaced and directed inward to the crowd — ensuring even audio coverage and a pleasant background music soundtrack to match the relaxing, lounge-like atmosphere of the space.

The duo also installed four compact Vienna loudspeakers in the nearby covered stage area, which is an elevated space for smaller live acts.

“We placed the Viennas roughly 10 feet up from the stage floor, which was the ideal height to deliver the perfect pitch here,” said Spencer.  “This space doubles as a lounge area with background music when not being used for a live band.  The Viennas fill the need perfectly.”

The Technomad system is performing without fail, and Spencer notes that there are future plans to expand Larkin Square with additional shops and recreational space.  “I’m used to Technomad performing well, and that’s why I continually rely on their excellence,” he said.  “When they expand, we’ll turn to Technomad again.  There’s no other choice in my mind.”

ABOUT TECHNOMAD

Technomad LLC, founded in 1995, designs and manufactures loudspeaker systems for the professional audio and security/military technology industries.  The company invented the first reliable full-range weatherproof loudspeaker and now offers nine models ranging in power from 60-watt loudspeakers to 1250-watt subwoofers — most available in Turnkey PA System packages featuring amplifiers, mixers and other signal processing equipment in pre-wired racks.  The company also manufactures a variety of audio infrastructure and communications equipment including playback and recording systems, weatherproof power amplifiers and turnkey remote audio systems.  Contact Technomad at 617-275-8898 or visit http://www.technomad.com for more information.

 

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City of Sturgis Expands Technomad Loudspeaker Installation for 2012 Motorcycle Rally

Technomad now covers entire downtown area; installer also adds Technomad loudspeakers to area businesses

BOSTON, July 25, 2012 – The City of Sturgis, South Dakota is ready to deliver big sound for the 72nd annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally with significant extensions to its downtown PA system.  The expanded system, featuring nearly 50 Technomad advanced audio loudspeakers, will deliver entertainment and public safety information to the expected crowd of nearly 700,000 strong — and at a far greater capacity than in previous years.

The Technomad loudspeakers, which previously covered a four-block radius, now blanket the entire downtown area with intelligible voice and high-quality musical reproduction.  Pete Torino, who specifies and installs PA systems, almost exclusively uses Technomad loudspeakers due to their fully weatherproof, MilSpec design and ability to project high-quality audio with broad dispersion over long distances.

Torino uses high-power Technomad Berlin and Noho models on downtown building rooftops, with 12 audio headends incorporating up to six loudspeakers apiece.  Torino, who also operates local radio station KNKL-AM The Knuckle (1710AM locally, online at http://www.theknuckle.com), will simulcast KNKL programming over the Technomads throughout the Rally, and use their powerful output to broadcast important information to the large crowds.

“I’ve been the voice of the Rally for the past 12 years,” said Torino.  “We continue to work closely with the City Emergency Management team to communicate public safety information for weather and other events.  They give me about five minutes notice to make an announcement over the Technomads before they blow the downtown sirens.  This keeps the crowds calm since they understand the situation when the emergency team flips the switch.”

The success of the downtown PA system has influenced Torino to specify and install Technomad loudspeakers at other area businesses and locations.  This includes two Berlins and four Nohos for the Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club — one of the world’s oldest motorcycle clubs — which offers a flat track, half-mile motocross track and challenging hill climbs on 40 acres of ground.

Torino has also installed approximately two-dozen Technomad Vernal loudspeakers in local convenience stores and restaurants, including the Elk Creek Steakhouse and Lounge in nearby Piedmont, South Dakota.   The installations cover both indoor and outdoor areas, taking advantage of the Vernal’s compact design, powerful sound output and durable, weatherproof construction.

“The Vernals come in both 8-ohm and 70-volt configurations, and are ideal for businesses that have 70-volt systems already installed,” said Torino.  “We replaced a lot of those old, awful-sounding 70-volt horns with Vernals.  They provide much better sounding audio.  The Vernals also deliver the same power and projection of the larger Technomads in a smaller package.”

Sturgis continues to stake its claim as one of the largest annual motorcycle rallies in the world, with the downtown streets swelling to more than 100 times the year-round local population each August.   This year’s Rally will take place from August 6-12 and feature live performances from dozens of major touring acts including Zac Brown Band, Slash and Buckcherry.  A full list of Rally-related events can be viewed at http://www.sturgismotorcyclerally.com/events/.

In addition to downtown Sturgis and local businesses, KNKL will be simulcast on KDSJ-AM in nearby Deadwood during the Rally.  This delivers the station’s over-the-air signal to five states — while the web stream ensures that listeners around the world can take part in the festivities 24-7 at http://www.theknuckle.com.

ABOUT TECHNOMAD

Technomad LLC, founded in 1995, designs and manufactures loudspeaker systems for the professional audio and security/military technology industries.  The company invented the first reliable full-range weatherproof loudspeaker and now offers nine models ranging in power from 60-watt loudspeakers to 1250-watt subwoofers — most available in Turnkey PA System packages featuring amplifiers, mixers and other signal processing equipment in pre-wired racks.  The company also manufactures a variety of audio infrastructure and communications equipment including playback and recording systems, weatherproof power amplifiers and turnkey remote audio systems.  Contact Technomad at 617-275-8898 or visit http://www.technomad.com for more information.

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