Renkus-Heinz Iconyx system for Parker Memorial Baptist Church

Sound Solutions specified a sound system based around Renkus-Heinz’s Iconyx digitally steerable column arrays for Parker Memorial Baptist church in Anniston, Alabama.

A single pair of IC24-R-II columns are now covering the entire 300-seat room, which dates back to the 19th century.

"We chose the Iconyx because it enabled us to steer the sound to focus it on the congregation, and away from the walls and ceiling," said Glen Ford of Sound Solutions. "We were able to create multiple beams to cover everything from the first pew all the way up to the sound man. We were even able to create a bit of a ‘null’ at the balcony face to minimise reflections."

The building’s landmark status and vintage architecture meant that the system had to meet some strict aesthetic guidelines. "The building is 125 years old," Ford continued. "It was clear from the outset that the system would have to be as visually unobtrusive as possible."

Its plaster walls presented another challenge, as they were not an option for mounting speakers, while the only alternative – the room’s wooden columns – were almost on top of the front row.

"We matched the paint and mounted them to the columns, and they’re practically invisible," Ford commented. "And even at close range, we were able to direct the sound so it wouldn’t blow away the people in the front row."

Two Iconyx IC8R-II columns also provide monitoring for the choir and orchestra, while system DSP is handled via a Biamp Nexia – connected to a PreSonus StudioLive 24 digital console at front of house.

"The signal is digital right out of the StudioLive, and stays that way all the way to the Iconyx," added Ford. "The ability to run a digital signal over a single Cat5 cable for such a long run with no signal loss was another big advantage for the Iconyx."

Polar Audio is the UK distributor for Renkus-Heinz.

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