To make the full transition when in-person services returned, Concord Methodist required an update to their audio and video systems to accomodate video streaming & recording technology for their parish. This was also important as they welcomed their new pastor to lead the church.  

When designing the audiovisual system, it was important for Creation Networks to identify all the hardware & software components needed for a successful service online and with in-person attendees. A needs analysis of their system determined they had a limited budget, so we worked to integrate existing audio & video equipment as much as possible.  

A key factor in designing a low-maintenance and reliable system maintaning is minimal points of failure, high-quality equipment, and an expert installation.  

The design process began with the selection of a Wirecast Gear Video Streaming Production System, which provides both the hardware and software necessary for a robust video streaming production platform. Building on this foundation, we specified and installed three PTZ cameras utilizing the Vaddio IP camera system. The components, including the network switch, PTZ cameras, and decoder, were integral to meeting the requirements of the AV system. Each video streaming camera connects and receives power through a single shielded CAT6 cable, ensuring streamlined installation and, most importantly, facilitating easy system expansion in the future.

Four additional displays were installed in the main chambers, along with a separate display in the chapel room for attendees with children and infants. Our audiovisual team engineered a series of digital amplifiers to deliver high-quality audio and ensure a low-latency stream for those participants. Based on prior issues with outdated HDMI splitters, EDID (Extended Display Identification Data) and HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) concerns were resolved using our Crestron HDMI video distribution and HDMI extender devices, ensuring all displays operated reliably.

The existing audio system had two problems: the existing suspended room mics did not work and were in the line of site of the pastor’s lectern. Faulty wiring due to age, old hardware and a myriad of adapters only added to their frustration.  

To eliminate audio issues, we tested all existing microphones and audio lines to be reused. A failing mixer and a mixture of bad audio lines were not salvageable. Creation Networks decided to replace the core components of the system, the amplifier and mixer. All cabling was upgraded & installed with the proper connectors to eliminate adapters.  

For the suspended microphones, the old bailing wire was removed and replaced with a single aircraft cable above the stage. This line was raised to be above the sightline of the cameras and the congregation. Two microphones created a stereo image so that the streaming viewers could hear the choir, piano, and church ambience. 

Overall, Concord United Methodist Church can now accommodate those attending church remotely, in another room, and deliver a high-quality service to those in person. Sandy Blazer, the church’s Creative Director, wanted a solution that was reliable and easy to use. We are pleased to have been able to deliver just that at a great price.

If your organization is ready to bring intelligent AV solutions and LED video wall technology to your new building, Creation Networks is here to help. We design, install and program state-of-the-art AV systems in businesses across California and nationwide. Contact Us Today