Is Don, Is (Now) Good
The AV for the Don Russell PAC in suburban Perth has undergone a generational upgrade.
30 August 2024
Text:/ Marty Davey
The Don Russell Performing Arts Centre in Gosnells has undergone a significant AV upgrade, managed by PAV Sales and Installation. PAV’s Marty Davey knew it wasn’t to be a run-of-the-mill technology patch-up job when the client invited PAV to reimagine the audiovisual offering without any budget or logistical constraints. Okay, then!
Of course, budgets are always constrained to a greater or lesser degree, but it gave PAV the freedom to design something truly fit for purpose, knowing the client was on board. Here, Marty Davey, shares his insights and experiences from this transformative project.
STARTS WITH THE FOYER
Marty Davey: We started by upgrading the digital signage screens in the Foyer and Green Room, ensuring clear and engaging visuals for visitors and talent. We also installed a new high-definition Aver AF-PTZ330 camera to capture stage performances, complemented by a fully updated paging system. The SDI signal feeds were upgraded, and a Blackmagic VideoHub 10×10 matrix was installed to control SDI sends to all screens.
THE STUDIO: A SOUND SOLUTION
The Studio was the first performance space we tackled, as it had no installed equipment. Previously, portable PAs were used, or clients had to supply their own gear. Peter Carr, our client contact, was eager for a reliable AV setup, including a sound system, projector, and screen. We chose the Epson EB-L260F laser projector for its suitability to the space and installed a 102-inch screen.
For the sound system, we needed a solution versatile enough to handle dance classes, presentations, and yoga sessions. The Void Acoustics VENU 12 speakers were the right choice, offering power, smooth sound, and the ability to mount without obstructing the wall of curtains. The control gear and amplifiers were neatly housed in a rack under the reception counter, and we used an RTI 10-inch touchscreen for control. The audio was processed through a Bose Professional EX1280 DSP and driven by the Void Acoustics BIAS Q2 amplifier. The result exceeded expectations, delivering a robust and clear sound.
The new Epson EB-PU2216B 16,000-lumen projector in the theatre fitted with the ELPLX02S UST lens.
PAV designed a bracket to ensure the Void Acoustics VENU 12 loudspeaker is never covered by the drape.
The Studio rack retains the Cloud zone mixer and Dynacord amp, and now houses the Void Acoustics Q2 amp and Bose Professional EX1280 DSP.
THEATRE PROJECTOR UPGRADE
The main theatre’s projector was due for an upgrade, and the client was keen for improved brightness and resolution for upcoming screenings. The Epson EB-PU2216B 16,000 ANSI projector fit the budget and specifications perfectly. The exceptional picture quality impressed the client, enhancing the overall theatre experience.
Adamson IS7PX loudspeakers handle FOH sound, while Adamson PC8 coax models take care of delay duties.
THEATRE LOUDSPEAKER UPGRADE
The most anticipated part of the upgrade was the theatre speaker system. Initially, the request was for two replacement speakers, but this evolved into a comprehensive left/centre/right and rear/side fill system.
Given the theatre’s compact size, we needed powerful yet smooth-sounding speakers.
After discussions with our CMI rep Neil Colliss, we selected Adamson loudspeakers for their quality and compact size. The IS7PX speakers were chosen for the main LCR setup, and the PC8 coaxial speakers for side fill. Lab.Gruppen amplifiers with built-in Lake processors powered the system, requiring minimal tuning. The efficiency of the system allows it to run at just 20% power while still filling the space with uniform, high-quality sound. The front LCR speakers, with just two seven-inch drivers, deliver a huge sound, often without needing the subwoofer.
Peter Carr was thrilled with the result, confident that the theatre can now produce high-quality sound for any show.
The Adamson loudspeaker system is driven and processed by Lab.gruppen D Series units with Lake processing on board.
CONTACT
PAV Sales & Installation: pav.com.au
CMI (Adamson): cmi.com.au
Epson: epson.com.au
Audio Source (Void Acoustics Reseller): audiosource.com.au
Amber Technology (RTI, AVer): ambertech.com.au
Wesco Anixter (Bose Professional): anixter.com.au
Blackmagic: blackmagic.com
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