Sound Reinforcement Report

Sound Reinforcement committee report for August 4, 2015: So far so good with the new speaker systems. The regular sound crews have been getting used to setting them up and packing them away. Most are having an easier time mixing. There have been little tweaks along the way, new habits to learn and old habits to forget, the latter being the toughest part of the transition, it seems. I hope the sensitive ears in the audience can bear with us during the transition. It's been nice to see the regulars who have been interested enough to become fluent with the new stuff. The upcoming Uke Fest will have a real benefit with the new equipment, as the monitor speakers each have two inputs with controls, so that any speaker can be taken to any room and used with a microphone and instrument. We effectively have six portable simple sound systems, using the four monitors and two main speakers as such. The Fe-Getaway will also have that benefit for workshop rooms. Permanent MUF Sound There has been progress. Soon after the last board meeting and days after Elizabeth's meeting with the new MUF president, the project leader Matt Rath had arranged for the latest audio engineer to make his presentation to MUF. The new quote is using a speaker system more like we're used to, digital wired and wireless console, an ethernet snake, subwoofers and processing, full video and wireless mic capability, webcast ready. The price came to about $37k, not including the electricians and carpenters to install it, and the painting and new carpets that come after the installation. That number also doesn't include any of acoustic treatments in the room, such as curtains and such. The impression I got from the MUF principles in attendance was that this proposal was the most to their liking and the one most likely to succeed. Another impression I clearly understood was that the acoustic panels that the Folk Project purchased and installed in the sanctuary nearly a decade ago are going to be removed during the installation process. One of the design parameters is that the new system has to have the ability to function well without the sound panels. To that sentiment, I explained that two subjects are completely different, that the system can only perform well if the room's characteristics permit. If the panels come down, then something has to replace them and, in fact, the treatments would need to be more effective. The subject then returned to curtains and padded chairs and better carpeting. We'll see how those discussions progress. Among the many reasons MUF wants the panels down is that the parishoners are now claiming they are a home for mold and other spores, since that room is naturally musty. The contract and construction phase could still be many months or a year away. Respectfully submitted, Mike Del Vecchio Sound chair