Tag: sustainable manufacturing

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.

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 Expands PowerChiton Series for InfoComm 2013

Compact outdoor amplifier and “breakout box” series adds new model, more features

BOSTON, May 20, 2013 — Technomad comes to InfoComm 2013 with new upgrades to its PowerChiton series of outdoor, weatherproof outdoor amplifier modules and breakout box accessories, giving end users and systems integrators more audio options for stadiums, resorts and other outdoor venues and facilities.

New filter options are selected or changed by moving the pre-amp-to-amplifier cable from one pre-amp output to another

The compact and low profile of PowerChiton amplifier modules — available in four power levels up to 1600 watts — enables sound contractors to install the modules on light poles and other surfaces at any height for co-location with loudspeakers.  A new balanced input provides customers with a choice of balanced and unbalanced connections, and three new integrated crossover filter options (350Hz high-pass, 85Hz high-pass, and 85Hz low-pass) allow installers to optimize amplifier performance for the assigned speakers.  Filter options are selected or changed by moving the pre-amp-to-amplifier cable from one pre-amp output to another.

Technomad last year introduced the PowerChiton BreakoutBox, a companion product that enables local audio control at user-friendly locations in the same NEMA-style protective enclosure.  Contractors wire the PowerChiton amplifier modules direct to the BreakoutBox, typically installed at eye level so end users can adjust volume and connect devices on the fly.

This year, Technomad introduces BreakoutBox XL, a deeper enclosure offering three expansion bays for use with up to three Technomad wireless microphones and/or custom Technomad Schedulon master audio playout systems.   The BreakoutBox XL offers extra storage space so end users can lock and leave devices following an event, and adds a mic/balanced line input channel that combines into a single jack.

“The expansion slots allow customers to truly have a complete PA system for permanent outdoor installation while adding several integrated source options,” said Rodger von Kries, vice president, Technomad.  “For applications such as athletic fields and resorts, audio systems can now be installed anywhere with power.”

Technomad will also demonstrate PowerChiton-integrated Apple AirPlay capability for iOS devices.  This allows commercial and residential customers to wirelessly stream iTunes audio files and playlists to any iOS device in range within a PowerChiton amplifier or breakout box, reducing costs and infrastructure associated with traditional wiring and cabling.

Technomad will also show the latest design upgrades to its advanced audio loudspeakers, notably redesigned ports to its popular Noho model to enhance bass response.  The new design reduces port compression and turbulence at higher SPL levels, and provides low-frequency output of +3dB at 85Hz.

Noho loudspeakers are available standalone or as part of complete Technomad Turnkey PA System with a powered amplifier, six-channel mixer, microphones, cables and more in a 6RU protective equipment rack.  Mounting options include outdoor yoke mounts to simplify hanging, and Technomad’s recently-introduced stainless steel mount.  Both are specifically built to survive long-term outdoor conditions, with the stainless steel mount able to tightly lock in Technomad loudspeakers from multiple fly points.

Technomad will exhibit this year at Booth 513.  InfoComm 2013 takes place June 12-14 at the Orange County Exhibition Center in Orlando.

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 Professional Sound to Cowboy Fellowship Arena

Venue attached to worship facility injects excitement into live events with new advanced audio loudspeakers and subwoofers

BOSTON, April 22, 2013 — The Cowboy Fellowship Church in southern Texas is a unique worship facility that preaches evangelism, discipleship and service — with an adjoining 2800-seat live event venue on campus.  The church hosts a variety of events in the venue, from all-day rodeos and bull-riding clinics to musical performances.

The Cowboy Fellowship Arena in southern Texas has a roof but is otherwise open air, requiring sustainable loudspeakers to protect against the wind-blown dirt and dust of the local environment

The venue opened in 2012 without a professional sound system, using standard stage equipment to produce and amplify audio.  The church soon hired Buster Burch as facilities administrator, who specified and installed an advanced audio system to cover the entire arena in a more consistent manner.  Burch researched various options and purchased a Technomad Turnkey PA System to ensure exceptional audio quality and long-term durability in the local environment.  The complete system included four loudspeakers and four subwoofers along with a complete audio headend — an unusual combination.

“I wanted to put together a system that looked good, sounded good and would last,” said Burch.  “Our philosophy is that it’s worth putting extra money into something that we know will last a long time.  This system isn’t just for us; it’s for future generations.”

The system is unusual in that each Technomad Berlin loudspeaker, mounted 20 feet off the ground, is accompanied by a Technomad Oslo subwoofer mounted 10 feet directly below.  The Berlin and the Oslo are the most powerful loudspeaker and subwoofer models in the company’s portfolio.

“I had a real desire for bass in this venue, as bass is what suffers the most when you work outside,” said Burch.  “If I am showing a video of a fireworks display, I want everyone in the stands to hear and feel that boom.  The Oslo gives me exactly what we needed out of the bass at the low end.  I’m very pleased.”

Burch adds that the Berlins produce plenty of power, with intelligible voice and full-range musical reproduction.  He notes that the wide dispersion ensures that he can walk the entire length and width of the arena without hitting a dull spot.

“We’ve had several events, and the audience feedback is that the audio is crisp and clear and not overly loud,” said Burch.  “I’ve had people tell me that they don’t hear the normal delay and bounceback common in other arenas.  The system works together as one giant loudspeaker to deliver audio across the entire bleachers.  I have true high-end and plenty of low-end and mid response.  And the sound envelope per speaker is incredibly large.”

Typical venue events include team ropings, steer ropings, bull riding clinics, and ranch rodeos featuring men and women.  Birch adds that the church plans to hold more live concerts moving forward, as well as special events such as Christmas services.

This means that the church also needed a durable sound system to ensure longevity.  Burch evaluated the entire facility upon joining the staff, and quickly realized that weatherproof equipment was required.  A roof provided coverage overhead, but open air surrounding the venue raised concerns.  The requisite combination of durability and high quality audio ultimately led him to Technomad.

“We’re about 30 miles south of San Antonio in the town of Jourdanton, and we get a lot of dust and wind as well as some cold and condensation,” said Burch.  “I like how the drain holes at the bottom of the cabinets expel condensation to keep them dry.  I also used Technomad’s new stainless steel mounts, which are very strong and sturdy in addition to being weatherproof.  They lock in really well and give us flexibility to accurately adjust the angle and direction of each loudspeaker.”

Burch purchased the Turnkey PA System from ProAudio.com of Grand Prairie, Texas.  The complete system included a pre-wired, protective equipment rack with an audio amplifier, six-channel mixer and three microphones; as well as all required cables and connectors to expedite installation.  Burch added a Mackie wireless control board for remote audio adjustments, as well as Sennheiser wireless equipment.

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 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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