Tag: Sound Contracting

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.

[Show as slideshow]

“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

[Show as slideshow]

$Technomad\'s new stainless steel wallmount allows installers to hang AS Series loudspeakers horizontally or vertically while avoiding erosion from the outdoor elements$

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 Upgrades Audio Presence at Club Med Sandpiper

Weatherproof loudspeakers power soothing background music and high-energy musical entertainment, with the durability to survive the harsh local climate

BOSTON, January 30, 2012 — Systems integration firm Axxentos of Fort Lauderdale, Florida turned to Technomad upon evaluating the outdoor audio needs of Club Med Sandpiper in nearby Port St. Lucie. The new outdoor audio systems, featuring 14 Technomad weatherproof loudspeakers, comprise part of a property-wide renovation alongside indoor AV upgrades and general construction projects.

Most of the 14 Technomad loudspeakers on the property are installed in a 70-volt configuration to accomodate long cable runs

[Show as slideshow]

$The Berlins handle everything from soothing background music to high-energy club soundtracks by the resort\'s pool$

Club Med Sandpiper’s 400-square-mile resort property exists in southern Florida’s sweltering climate, requiring durable outdoor audio systems that can withstand the year-round heat, humidity and moisture. The resort also required high-quality loudspeakers that could power full-range, high-volume audio over long distances, and reproduce soothing background music at clearly audible levels.

“I’ve learned what gear can survive in harsh environments over the years, and from all the outdoor installations I have done, only one company reliably endures the elements — and that is Technomad,” said Olivier De Kegel, owner and president of Axxentos. “They also produce great sounding audio.”

The external pool system proved the biggest challenge as De Kegel had little guidance from the resort, other than that management wanted a nice-sounding background music system during the afternoon and a louder system in the evenings. He installed two Technomad Berlin loudspeakers, the largest loudspeaker in the company’s range, to take care of both requests with one system. The Berlins accommodate every activity from Bingo to full-blown nightclub-style events.

Axxentos installed a 70-volt infrastructure to accommodate long cable runs from a new central audio headend to various areas, including the bar. Ten Technomad Vernal 70-volt loudspeakers power the bar zone, delivering music and entertainment to guests enjoying daytime activities and the nightlife.

Two Technomad Noho loudspeakers also welcome guests with high-energy music audio at the entrance as they check in, with lower-volume background music playing in between arrivals.

“The resort wanted a system they could easily manipulate at the welcome area to balance loud and soft audio, and the Nohos offer power that is closer to the Berlin but compact enough for installation at the entrance,” said De Kegel.

Elsewhere, Axxentos installed AV systems in new conference rooms, built a mobile DJ unit and renovated a large theater system, merging existing equipment with some new components. But the outdoor audio systems remain the crown jewel of the resort upgrades.

“This was my largest installation to date, with some interesting upgrades and unique challenges,” said De Kegel. “They went from being fully analog to a more digital, centralized model. There won’t be any dull nights with the high-quality audio systems they have, and the durability of the Technomads ensure they won’t have to replace the outdoor systems every two years.”

ABOUT TECHNOMAD

Technomad and Electrocom Revitalize Stadium Audio at Historic Tacoma High Schools

BOSTON, January 5, 2012 — Two illustrious high school stadiums in the Tacoma Public Schools system enjoyed vastly improved sound for the 2011 football season, thanks to comprehensive distributed audio system upgrades at both locations.

Lynwood, Washington-based systems integration firm Electrocom managed the upgrades, installing Technomad advanced audio loudspeakers and high-powered amplifiers among other components at Stadium High School and Lincoln High School. Electrocom handpicked the systems to replace aging horn components that were in disrepair and bleeding into adjacent neighborhoods — prompting a flurry of complaints.

The stadiums’ long, rich histories are evident in their grandeur: large, bowl-shaped venue designs with concrete bleachers and expansive sideline space. This made sound improvements — especially even, venue-wide coverage — unusually challenging.

“These are not typical press box installations where we mount and blast away,” said Matt Wright, project manager at Electrocom. “We positioned narrow-dispersion loudspeakers at multiple points, with enough SPL, or sound pressure, to cover the distance of the field in some cases. We also needed a wireless amplifier solution at each stadium to remain under budget. It would have been expensive and complicated to run wires the length of the field and trench into the concrete.”

Technomad PowerChiton4 high-power amplifiers provide the wireless solution for pole-mounted loudspeakers on the visitor sidelines at each stadium. The IP66-rated amplifiers offer a waterproof design for outdoor audio, and a compact, modular form factor for greater proximity to loudspeakers. The 1600-watt amplifiers also pack plenty of power for loud stadium environments.

[Show as slideshow]

$Technomad PowerChiton\'s power the loudspeakers at various points$

$Technomad PowerChiton\'s are compact, making them simple to install close to the loudspeaker$

$Technomad PowerChiton\'s are compact, making them simple to install close to the loudspeaker$

Wright adds that Technomad loudspeakers provide exceptional audio quality and are among the best at containing audio within the confines of a stadium or similar venue. “The end users are very happy with the audio quality,” he said. “The Technomad systems have improved intelligibility and increased audio isolation from the neighbors at both stadiums.”

Electrocom installed Berlin 9040 and 6040 narrow-dispersion loudspeakers at both stadiums. All Stadium High School loudspeakers mount to four large steel light poles — two above and behind the home side bleachers, and two above and behind the visitor side. Each home side pole supports two Berlin 9040 loudspeakers aimed toward the front row at a steep angle to cover the audience. One Berlin 6040 aims outward to cover the field.

One visitor-side pole supports two Berlin 9040 loudspeakers powered by a Technomad PowerChiton4 amplifier and RF solution to cover one end of the bleachers. A second pole supports two Berlin 9040 loudspeakers and a PowerChiton4 for the near bleachers; and a single Berlin 6040 with a dedicated PowerChiton4 amplifier to cover an extension of the bleacher away from the cluster. Allen PoleStar mounting hardware supports all loudspeakers.

A mix of Berlin 6040 and 9040 loudspeakers cover the Lincoln High School field from three locations behind the home bleachers, including the end zones for audio during track and field events. Berlin 6040s and PowerChiton4 amplifiers cover the visitor side from the front corners of the bleachers.

“These are among the largest stadiums we’ve done and there were plenty of challenges,” said Wright. “Technomad loudspeakers provide high-quality audio, high-frequency intelligibility and strong SPL along with a weatherproof design. And the PowerChiton amplifiers provided a way to get audio to difficult places without being cost-prohibitive.”

ABOUT TECHNOMAD

Technomad Mass Notification System Powers Outdoor Audio at Western Washington University

Technomad Berlin narrow dispersion loudspeakers and PowerChiton amplifiers deliver intelligible voice to three outdoor zones on campus

Western Washington University‘s sprawling campus in scenic Bellingham stretches 215 acres, with nearly 15,000 students walking the grounds during the fall and spring semesters. The university gives prominence to campus safety, recently upgrading its fire alarm system in 47 buildings and adding a mass notification system to improve audio quality and long-distance coverage.

Western Washington University ultimately benefits from pristine voice clarity and intelligibility over long distances by using Technomad loudspeakers and outdoor amplifiers

[Show as slideshow]

Mills Electric Co., a Bellingham-based electrical and systems contractor serving the commercial and industrial markets, installed the multi-zone audio system in conjunction with Western Washington University support staff. Technomad Berlin narrow dispersion loudspeakers exclusively power three outdoor zones at campus-designated “gathering areas.”

Technomad PowerChiton high-power waterproof amplifier modules drive live and pre-recorded messages to the loudspeakers for campus-wide broadcast. The project also marries all indoor/outdoor PA points and associated pan/tilt/zoom cameras to an existing Edwards EST-3 campus-wide fire alarm system, programmed and upgraded by Performance System Integration, an Edwards EST Life Safety and Communications Strategic Partner.

The complete system ties to a central network infrastructure, enabling administration, campus police and other offices to deliver voice notifications to any single location, multiple zones, or every PA point in an “all-call” scenario.

Cory Kovacevich, a service and project manager at Mills Electric Co., notes that the Technomad loudspeakers produce intelligible voice over long distances, ensuring that students, staff and visitors hear emergency notifications loud and clear. Each gathering area includes two Technomad Berlin 90×40 loudspeakers, mounted between 20 and 90 feet from the ground depending on the location. Weatherproof construction ensures long-term durability and protection from the outdoor elements in rainy northwest Washington.

Kovacevich adds that the PowerChiton modules deliver 500 watts of clean power to each Berlin loudspeaker in a simple, easy-to-install package. Though IP66-rated and designed for permanent outdoor installation, Kovacevich installed the PowerChitons indoors at the central audio headend for easier accessibility.

“The PowerChitons come in small, non-metallic enclosures and take up minimal space, which is important because we have limited room to add equipment,” says Kovacevich. “The PowerChitons tie directly to the fire alarm system, and are mounted next to the fire alarm panels. This keeps everything but the loudspeakers and cameras in one building.”

Kovacevich notes that the overall system represents a major upgrade for the campus, enabling text-to-speech translation and remote access to make announcements over the system from off campus — in addition to video integration, multi-zone capability and superior audio quality.

“The Berlins put out some serious sound,” says Kovacevich. “We had recently broadcast a test message from the rooftop and saw people more than 100 yards away stop, turn around and look directly toward the loudspeakers. The university is very happy with the power, sound quality and clarity of the voice.”

ABOUT TECHNOMAD