Clair Brothers solves problems for Holy Spirit
- Details
As it works with so many schools, the sports hall at Holy Spirit holds more than just sports matches. The hall hosts numerous assemblies, from college band and choir performances to special ceremonies that include ANZAC Day, college mass, fashion shows, graduations, career expos, and much more. Greg Duncan, business manager at Holy Spirit College, explains: “Each of these events have their own requirements but the common thread to all is the need for high-quality audio and video. So, when we decided to upgrade our audio and video systems, we wanted equipment to take us to the next level and stand the test of time.”
Chosen for the task was Clair Brothers to execute the audio design upgrade and Videopro for the refreshment of the video system’s functionality, quality and longevity. “The new systems are part of an integrated AV installation and the Clair Brothers equipment is the showpiece of the audio component. These loudspeakers provide a ‘wow’ factor every time they’re used,” explains Martin Ridley of Videopro. “Historically, these types of rooms have limited or poorly designed audio reinforcement. This Clair Brothers system shows what can be achieved.”
Overseeing the installation with an expert eye on Clair Brothers role in the audio upgrade was Wayne Grosser, the director of the company’s Australian office, whose approach to this particular venue system design was based on a long-term solution that would suit the multipurpose nature of the room.
“The multipurpose hall always posed challenges because of its size and construction. It’s not necessarily set up to be a performance area, so setting up for different types of performances often proved frustrating.” Grosser points out that, “like any typical basketball hall the acoustics are very lively since the floors are hardwood and the walls are concrete. Plus, the stage is mobile and can vary in size depending on the event.”
Grosser recommended an array of three Clair Brothers kiT12s (60deg horizontal by 40deg vertical per cabinet) plus one CS218 subwoofer per side. “This gear and configuration provide even coverage of the large width and long throw depth. The truth is, this wasn’t really an application for a line array system. But it works incredibly well,” says Grosser.
(Jim Evans)
