Tag: outdoor audio

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.

The Nohos were deployed in 70-volt configurations to accommodate lengthy cable runs required for distributed audio systems

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 Black Hils Rally is one of the biggest events at Sturgis each year. Technomad Berlin and Noho are installed on surrounding rooftops. Photo credit to BK Bennett.

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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Technomad Powers Audio for Multimedia Artist Doug Aitken’s ‘Song1’ at the Smithsonian Hirshhorn Museum

Weatherproof loudspeakers and amplifiers provide high-quality audio soundtrack to accompany the massive visual projection designed by WorldStage

BOSTON, June 20, 2012 — WorldStage, the company created by the Scharff Weisberg and Video Applications merger, recently staged a unique and awe-inspiring audiovisual project in cooperation with the Smithsonian’s Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden that brought multimedia artist Doug Aitken’s ambitious “Song1” piece to life — across the Washington, DC museum’s 725-foot wide circular, outdoor façade.

Worldstage required pristine audio to accompany the striking visuals of Song 1 -- and selected Technomad to do the job

Song1 recently closed a two-month run at Hirshhorn, where the spectacle drew up to 3,000 visitors a night to the museum grounds.  The non-narrative, multimedia piece centers on the smoky 1950s doo-wop classic “I Only Have Eyes For You” — and the various humans and inanimate objects that seemingly react to the song’s mesmerizing effect.

The massive video projection required exceptional audio quality to create a truly engaging multimedia event worthy of both the museum and Aitken’s artistic vision.  WorldStage selected Technomad for the job, strategically placing 20 of the company’s weatherproof loudspeakers to ensure uniform audio patterns over long distances and at close range.  The company also specified and installed Technomad PowerChiton waterproof amplifier modules to power the audio projections.

 

“We specified Technomad because we wanted fully water-proofed, full-range boxes — and wanted to preserve some amount of stereo imaging,” said Joshua Weisberg, president of WorldStage.  “Using full-range boxes at specific locations allowed this to happen.”

Weisberg and his team installed the loudspeakers on a perimeter wall that encloses the Hirshhorn Museum property.  The coverage area included the streets, sidewalks and surrounding park, as well as the interior museum plaza.  WorldStage installed 12 Technomad Berlin loudspeakers — the largest, most powerful Technomad model — around the wall, arranged and zoned to preserve left/right orientation.  The company also installed eight Technomad Vernal loudspeakers — the most compact loudspeaker in the Technomad arsenal — where very short-distance projection was required.  This included entry areas and the south side of the property.

Weisberg adds that the PowerChiton amplifiers were configured to drive two loudspeakers apiece — using the 1600W PowerChiton4 models for the Berlins and the 500W PowerChiton3 models for the Vernals.  PowerChiton amplifiers are compact, IP66-rated modules that allow integrators to co-locate amplification with loudspeakers to simplify installations — while also offering maximum protection from rain and other outdoor elements with its robust and durable design.

“The piece was up for eight weeks in all kinds of weather, and the equipment did not sustain any degradation,” said Weisberg, whose team also designed and fabricated custom mounts for the loudspeakers to ensure exceptional operation during inclement weather.

Most important to WorldStage, Hirshhorn and Aitken when it came to audio was the quality delivered to the ears in the audience.  WorldStage provided and programmed Pandora music servers and simply let the Technomad system handle the “last mile.”

“Sound quality was a very important element of this artwork, as the piece used ‘I Only Have Eyes For You’ as its narrative basis,” said Weisberg.  “Doug Aitken was pleased with the performance of the sound system, and we are looking forward to using the equipment on future projects.”

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.

Technomad Expands Integrator and End User Options for PowerChiton Amplifiers

Localized control and connections, streaming audio support offer progressive solutions to enhance outdoor audio installations

BOSTON, May 15, 2012 — Technomad introduces several new product accessories at InfoComm 2012 to complement its advanced audio solutions range.  The innovative tools give systems integrators and end users flexible new options to simplify Technomad installations in stadiums, on college campuses and across other indoor/outdoor facilities.

Installers typically set the controls on the PowerChiton amplifiers and screw them shut for permanent installations - while the PowerChiton breakout box is made for end users for ongoing local audio control

At InfoComm (June 13-15, Las Vegas Convention Center, Booth C12033), Technomad introduces a weatherproof breakout box and Apple AirPort Express audio streaming compatibility for its range of PowerChiton amplifier modules.  The company will also show a new stainless steel mounting solution for its high-power weatherproof loudspeaker models.

“Technomad is always seeking ways to increase the range of applications for our products, and make life easier for systems integrators by innovating solutions that address installation challenges in the field,” said Rodger von Kries, vice president, Technomad.

PowerChiton Breakout Box

The PowerChiton range of passively-cooled, IP66-rated weatherproof outdoor amplifier modules — available in four power levels up to 1600 watts — have grown increasingly popular in outdoor audio projects where installers wish to co-locate amplification with loudspeakers, from athletic field complexes to university campus mass notification systems.  The compact and low profile of PowerChiton amplifier modules — along with the rugged, weatherproof design — enables sound contractors to easily install the modules on light poles and other surfaces at any height.

Technomad now introduces a specialized PowerChiton breakout box that enables local audio control at user-friendly locations in the same NEMA-style protective enclosure.  Contractors can install the breakout box at eye level, for example, allowing end users to adjust volume and connect a handheld microphone or an iPod on the fly.

The PowerChiton breakout box, which begins shipping July 1, includes mic and line level inputs, a four-channel mixer, an accessory cord and mounting hardware.  The breakout box also enables remote installations, such as athletic fields without a press box or other protected location, to benefit from permanently-installed, PowerChiton-based PA systems.  A coach or announcer can walk up to the breakout box, open it and be speaking through the PA or playing music within seconds.

“Installers typically only open PowerChiton amplifiers to hard-wire connections and set levels, and then screw the box shut for dependable, permanent installations,” said von Kries.  “The PowerChiton breakout box is designed for ongoing user adjustments, with easy and direct access to controls and the capacity to store an audio player and microphone.  It also provides a local audio source to make announcements and connect an iPod or other playout device.”

Technomad also now supports AirPlay capability from PowerChiton for Apple AirPort Express users.  This allows commercial and residential customers to wirelessly stream iTunes audio files and playlists to an AirPort Express unit within a PowerChiton amplifier or breakout box.  Users require only the hardware and a basic network or Wi-Fi connection to wirelessly stream audio from a computer or playout device to the PowerChiton — reducing costs and infrastructure associated with traditional wiring and cabling.

New Wall Mount Solution

Technomad is now shipping a new stainless steel wall mount for its AS Series of weatherproof, advanced audio loudspeakers.  The AS Series consists of the largest and most powerful Technomad loudspeakers, including the Noho and all Berlin models (broad and narrow-dispersion).

Unlike older styles, the new Technomad wall mount accessory allows installers to position any AS Series loudspeaker vertically or horizontally.  The stainless steel design prevents weather-related erosion over time, and pole-mount adaption simplifies lighting and telephone pole installations.

Technomad will also show a range of existing advanced audio solutions, including its ultra-lightweight DragonFly remote audio system; and its Schedulon audio playback and recording system.

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.

Technomad DragonFly Portable Audio System Debuts in Europe

Compact, integrated Micro PA system is first weatherproof system of its kind

BOSTON, December 7, 2011 — Technomad brings DragonFly, the world’s first completely weatherproof, all-in-one, self-casing portable PA system for the commercial pro audio market to ISE2012 (January 31-February 2, RAI Exhibition Center, Hall 3, Booth #3D144), marking its international debut.

DragonFly portable weatherproof pa system - light, small, and LOUD. Great sound quality, 4+ hour operation from internal battery.

The DragonFly, adapted from Technomad’s rugged military technology, is ideal for mobile pro audio and staging events that require outstanding audio quality, lightweight portability, quick setup, ease of operation and durable construction for outdoor events.  The weatherproof design fully protects system components from moisture, dirt, shock and other elements in outdoor environments, supporting everything from ceremonies and parades to sporting events and concerts.

The inclusion of green, rechargeable and long-lasting NiHM battery power, along with a potent audio output, supports mobile audio free of extension cords for crowds of approximately 2,150 in size.  NiMH battery technology, which uses nickel-metal hydride materials, is far more energy-efficient than lead-based batteries used in many portable audio systems today.

The DragonFly offers a uniquely small form factor for a fully functioning PA unit, sized at 14-1/2”x8-1/4”x14” and weighing 28 pounds.  It contains two Technomad loudspeakers (expandable to four) and a 200-watt amplifier, and is one of the only portable PA systems to offer an integrated four-input mixer with individual controls.  Collectively, the professional audio features provide a powerful output with broad dispersion, projecting intelligible speech and high-quality musical reproduction over long distances and wide areas.

“The DragonFly provides high-quality portable sound without worries by eliminating any risk of equipment loss due to quickly developing weather changes at outdoor events,” said Rodger von Kries, vice president of Technomad.  “The DragonFly is shockingly loud considering its small form factor, and its high-fidelity performance is an ideal upgrade from low-fidelity horn systems.  Compact and flexible with advanced battery technology, it advances what is possible in portable PA while delivering Technomad’s military-grade reliability and weatherproof construction.”

Other standard features include 16+ user-selectable channels for UHF applications, an integrated wireless microphone and an expansion bay to support an additional mic and a CD player.  Network interfaces for streaming audio to other PA systems or receiving audio over a network via a wireless connection are included.  Users can also add a Technomad Schedulon mp3 playback and recording system for instant, manual playback of user-loaded audio; or automatic playback of files (single-, multiple- or repeated-play) through down-to-the-second scheduling.

The convergence of neo-driver, amplification and NiMH battery technology supports the compact, lightweight and high-powered portable PA design.  The internal NiHM battery comes with a charger for powering up in the field, and the unit operates on 120-240VAC and 12-24VDC power — making the DragonFly also useful as a fixed indoor or outdoor PA system, temporary or permanent.

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.