Tag: outdoor audio

Technomad at Western North Carolina Nature Center

IMAGOS Entertainment LLC of Miami FL shared these photos of their recent installation at the Western North Carolina Nature Center “Otter Falls” exhibit.

The equipment was installed at the Nature Center’s “Brandon’s Otter Falls” river otter habitat. IMAGOS worked with the Center’s Exhibit Coordinator to install the Technomad Turnkey rPA 70v-Volt System which included 6 Technomad Vernal 15T speakers. The system provides music and PA assistance to the Animal Keepers during their otter feeding and enrichment presentations. Click here for more info on the mind-meltingly cute North American River Otter.

You can see Technomad Vernal 16T loudspeakers in the photos, but what you don’t see is the rest of the rPA system we delivered. This quick-to-deploy 70-volt PA package includes amplification, a multi-channel mixer, wallmounts, and cabling.

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The Vernal weatherproof loudspeaker is unique among ultra compact loudspeaker both in its rugged weatherproof construction, but also its compression-driver loaded high frequency section. The latter means that the Vernal can handle live mic inputs without strain, and deliver crisp, articulate speech even in noisy environments that ‘consumer grade’ compact loudspeakers can’t match.

But technical audio details… See the adorable otter video below!

Clearwing Productions Chooses Technomad for Phoenix Zoo Audio Improvements

Technomad loudspeakers enliven “water lagoon experience” for visitors while giving zoo long-term outdoor audio solution

BOSTON, October 16, 2013 – The systems design and integration experts at Clearwing Productions last year overhauled the Phoenix Zoo’s annual seasonal spectacular “ZooLights,” transforming a linear roadside display into an immersive, 360-degree audio and lighting experience that encircled the zoo’s central water lagoon. The advanced audio system from Technomad performed so well that zoo officials opted to use the system year round, delivering multi-zone background and event music to visitors across the lagoon area.

In addition to the Paris loudspeakers, each pole includes two PowerChiton weatherproof outdoor amplifiers and one Chicago subwoofer at the base. The complete solution eliminated lengthy cable runs by co-locating amps with the loudspeakers.

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The Phoenix Zoo initially hired Clearwing Productions to increase the production value of the annual lighting show, though the two teams quickly determined that the audio system was underperforming – not to mention falling apart.

“The Phoenix area is inundated with sun and UV rays, which is very tough on outdoor products,” said Nick Pitman, service and systems engineer, Clearwing Productions. “The previous speakers were dry rotted or full of water, and most had cracks from UV rays. They wanted something that would produce great audio and last more than a year. That’s when we looked at Technomad.”

Technomad delivered an advanced outdoor audio solution comprising 24 loudspeakers, 12 subwoofers and multiple wired power amplifiers, all fully weatherproof to protect against UV rays and other outdoor elements. The Clearwing design included 12 speaker poles surrounding the lagoon, each with two Paris weatherproof loudspeakers pointing in opposite directions from a height of 16 feet. One Technomad Chicago subwoofer and two PowerChiton amplifiers were added to the base of the pole.

The PowerChiton amplifier modules simplified the installation for the Clearwing team and ultimately reduced project costs for the Phoenix Zoo, eliminating lengthy complex underwater wiring jobs to connect traditional indoor amplifiers to outdoor loudspeakers.

“We knew that we wanted an outdoor amplifier that was simple in design but offered longevity,” said Pitman. “This solution gives us 120 volts and a speaker line output in a compact, outdoor-rated package. One PowerChiton feeds the Paris loudspeakers and another feeds the subwoofer on each pole. Most importantly, the PowerChiton design has no fans, eliminating any heat-related performance problems. They just keep working.”

The end-to-end distributed audio architecture includes Harman or BSS equipment to route, zone and delay signals for everyday use or special events as required. Network protocol signals are converted back to balanced audio en route to the PowerChitons. From there, the Paris loudspeakers deliver full-range musical reproduction with broad dispersion across the entire lagoon, with the Chicago subwoofers filling in the low end with additional bass output.

“The zoo had previously used rock speakers, and after the lighting upgrade they made it clear they wanted to add real audio,” said Pitman. “The Paris loudspeakers cover the area thoroughly, while the subs emphasize specific points in the music or dramatic show scenes without pushing the bass to nightclub levels. Everyone involved agrees that this was the most effective outdoor audio solution for the job.”

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 Brings New Energy to Texas School Athletics

Covenant Communications relies on Technomad’s all-inclusive, outdoor audio solution for batting cages; installation follows several previous sports audio upgrades

BOSTON, May 28, 2013 — Houston-area systems design and integration firm Covenant Communications has gradually transformed sports audio for the Alvin School District in southern Texas in recent years, installing Technomad advanced audio loudspeakers across baseball and softball fields, a large football stadium and other athletic venues to improve quality and coverage.

Covenant Communications exclusively installs Technomad for Alvin School District athletic fields, including Yellowjackets Stadium at Alvin High School

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$Covenant benefited from Technomad\'s yoke mounts to simplify installation and angle the Nohos for the best possible directivity$

Covenant Communications extended those audio benefits to the new batting cages at Manvel High School this spring, injecting fresh energy into the arduous drill of batting practice. The Technomad solution here covers all the bases, bringing together two full-range loudspeakers, an outdoor amplifier and a flexible audio control system. All components are completely weatherproof for protection against the heat, humidity and moisture of the harsh coastal-area climate.Click for current weather in Alvin!

“Technomad is the only choice for us in the weatherproof loudspeaker category, but we weren’t sure how to power a system in this situation,” said Shawn Mullins, President, Covenant Communications. “The batting cages are typically designed as a metal structure with a roof, open sides, a chain link fence and nets to catch the balls. We knew whatever we put out there would be exposed to moisture, severe thunderstorms and occasional hurricane-force winds and rains. We wanted to find something we could bolt down, plug in and leave alone.”

Mullins quickly discovered the Technomad PowerChiton, a series of compact, weatherproof outdoor amplifier modules that contractors can install outdoors and close to loudspeakers. The series also now includes the PowerChiton BreakoutBox, a similarly designed module offering accessible microphone and media player connections, audio control and device storage. The solution removes the need for a separate equipment rack and power source, with a single cable providing direct connection to the amplifier module.

“The PowerChiton was the only option we found outside the conventional mindset,” said Mullins. “It blends in well with other electrical equipment boxes; most people don’t even realize it’s there. It also completely eliminated the need for a portable PA system. We didn’t want to force coaches to roll in an equipment rack every time students wanted music.”

And the students are certainly getting music. Two Technomad Noho loudspeakers are positioned to the left and right sides, splitting the distance to the center of the cages. The broad dispersion provides even coverage throughout, immersing batters in the auditory experience.

Mullins used Technomad outdoor yoke mounts to hang the Nohos, citing ease of angling as a major benefit. “The yokes allow us to tilt the loudspeakers to whatever point we need, and it also saves us the time of custom fabricating mounting equipment,” he said. “It’s a simple point-blank hang, reinforced with a safety cable.”

Ultimately, the many Technomad installations across the Alvin School District are representative of an organization that takes pride in its sporting programs. Alvin Memorial Stadium is the showcase of these installations, featuring five Technomad Berlin outdoor loudspeakers – the largest in the company’s portfolio – spreading even coverage of intelligible voice and full-range music across the large venue.

“Sporting programs are very prominent in Texas, and this school district has been aggressive with integrating technology into their venues,” said Mullins. “And the Technomads have performed very well. We have had some of their loudspeakers outside in a hostile weather environment for seven or eight years, and we’ve never had any performance issues.”

ABOUT TECHNOMAD

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Technomad Loudspeakers Blanket Snow-Covered Mountains of Scandinavian Ski Resort

BOSTON, January 22, 2013 — The largest ski resort in Northern Europe has amplified the lighting and sound experience for its guests, with Technomad advanced audio loudspeakers as the centerpiece.

The unique lighting and soubnd experience on the SkiStar slopes is considered a first for northern Europe, according to Watt & Volt

SkiStar, located in the Åre municipality in northern Sweden, is giving skiers an interactive experience on the slopes with its new high-quality, multi-zone entertainment system. The Technomad loudspeakers, projected by systems integration company Watt & Volt Sverige AB, communicate the history of SkiStar and deliver atmospheric audio in eight locations. Watt & Volt worked alongside project leader Ljusarkitektur AB, which is responsible for the new lighting structure that accompanies the audio system.

The complete, synchronized system delivers a captivating lighting and sound experience to skiers, with audio originated through zoned DMX-controlled MP3 players.

“This is a completely new concept for ski resorts in the north of Europe, perhaps even beyond,” said Hamrin. “To our knowledge, it is the only system in the north of Europe of its kind, in the way the ambient sounds connect surrounding areas with the lighting installation.”

Watt & Volt, which recently joined Technomad’s European dealer network, chose Technomad loudspeakers for their complete weatherproof construction and ability to withstand harsh outdoor environments — also noting excellent audio quality and broad coverage as benefits.

“There is nothing to compare with Technomad,” says Niklas Hamrin, managing director, of Watt & Volt. “We find the audio quality to be very good, especially considering the extremely rugged build. Their loudspeakers provide the appropriate protection considering the large snow amounts and extremely low temperatures, which can drop to between -30 and -40 Celsius.”

Technomad Paris loudspeakers, which provide full-range audio output in a classic column design, were installed at locations where musical reproduction and exceptional bass output were required. Watt & Volt chose Technomad Vernal loudspeakers, the most compact model in the company’s portfolio, at stations where intelligible speech is a priority. Hamrin added that both models satisfy unobtrusive audio system requirements from SkiStar and Ljusarkitektur. The loudspeakers are installed alongside compact, protective, heated cabinets with built-in amplifiers to complete the outdoor installation.

Future expansion plans include the installation of more Technomad loudspeakers at outdoor gondolas throughout the resort. The gondola systems will include battery-powered, RFID-controllable MP3 players built into ultra-compact, highly protective plastic cases.

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$The broad dispersion and long-distance throw of Technomad Paris loudspeakers were a key factor in Watt & Volt\'s decision$

Technomad Sounds Off At Connecticut Waterfront Home

Vernal and Paris loudspeakers deliver music across 15,000-square-foot backyard

BOSTON, November 7, 2012 — The picturesque Long Island Sound waterfront has turned many visitors into homeowners. The area recently caught the attention of one Connecticut family looking for a new house. The family discovered the perfect home and embarked on an ambitious renovation from the ground up, building a new 13,000-square foot home complete with a backyard entertainment system featuring 13 Technomad weatherproof loudspeakers.

Kepke also notes exceptional audio quality as reasons for choosing Technomad loudspeakers for this Long Island Sound residential project, which comprised Vernal and Paris loudspeakers and a Soho subwoofer.

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$The Vernal and Paris are part of the company\'s MP Series of weatherproof loudspeakers.$

“The homeowners bought the property, knocked down the existing house, and built the new one to their specifications,” said David Kepke, owner of the NY-based Multimedia Resource Group, who spearheaded the installation. “This was a three-year project and the Technomad loudspeakers were the final touch, completing the outdoor entertainment system. Technomad delivers crisp, clear audio, and you never have to worry about weather damage. That’s why I keep coming back to them: stellar construction, versatility, and overall excellent sound quality.”

Multimedia Resource Group provides premium custom electronics systems for the home, office, and other private spaces such as yachts. Kepke worked closely with the homeowners and their architect, and designed the system to provide audio throughout the 15,000 square foot backyard.

“It’s a large open space, so to ensure smooth coverage across the entire yard I divided the area into three zones: the veranda, lawn area, and pool area,” said Kepke. “Each has its own group of Technomad loudspeakers, chosen to deliver even audio coverage at just the right output level.”

Kepke installed six Vernal loudspeakers in the veranda ceiling, four Paris loudspeakers beneath the veranda for the lawn area, and two Paris models with one Soho subwoofer for the pool area. He knew Technomad was the ideal fit based on his past experiences with the company, having used them extensively on a 280-foot luxury yacht and many other projects.

“This house is located right on the Long Island Sound waterfront, so the loudspeakers had to fully withstand moisture, rain, salt, and snow,” he said. “Technomad loudspeakers also come in a variety of sizes, colors, and output levels to fit virtually any application, so I had a lot to choose from. There was no doubt in my mind that Technomad was the only choice for the job.”

The six Vernal loudspeakers installed in the veranda ceiling, are mounted with custom stainless steel brackets that are also weather resistant. “The custom brackets allowed the Vernal loudspeakers to be mounted in such a way that they are recessed behind a trim ring. This allowed the architect to achieve the clean look they desired, and I was able to use a high-performance, completely weatherproof loudspeaker.”

According to Kepke, the lightweight Vernal was the sensible choice for the long, narrow veranda as it measures just 9.1 inches x 6.1 inches and weighs only 8.5 pounds. Kepke mounted the four Paris lawn zone area loudspeakers underneath the elevated veranda decking. The final two Paris loudspeakers and the Soho subwoofer were installed in a planting bed next to the pool.

“The integrated fly points, standard on all Technomad loudspeakers, made mounting under the veranda a very simple task,” said Kepke. “The homeowner didn’t want them visible in the pool area zone, so installing them in the planting beds made perfect sense. They face the lounge area and pool deck, and deliver full, rich, detailed sound.”

The system provides brilliant sound quality, plenty of flexibility and tremendous ease-of-use, thanks to a centralized control system. Crestron touch screens throughout the house offer the ability to control source and volume in any audio zone from anywhere inside or outside the house. This bodes well for entertaining a variety of guests.

“The homeowners can change the volume and select the source of music, using an iPod, iPhone, Sirius radio, Pandora, ReQuest music server or something else,” said Kepke. “They have several iPod docking stations strategically located throughout the home, and can use any one as a music source in any of the 24 zones. It’s simple to use, and the flexibility really appeals to them. Overall, the homeowners are extremely pleased, and they plan on entertaining in their outdoor space for years to come.”

ABOUT TECHNOMAD

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