Worship Centers - Audio and Video Systems
January 3rd, 2007 by Todd
As noted in the section on Interior design, emerging generations have come to expect audio quality as good as they have in their automobiles and video projection as clear as they have at home. When a church compromises in these areas it is noticed as inferior, and the church becomes associated with cheap quality. The church should present the most important message in the world: the good news of Jesus Christ, with the best available tools. In today’s culture, the most powerful communication tool is multimedia, combining audio, video, music and drama. Poor quality in multimedia will only distract from the message. Unless you have an expert on staff, it is our recommendation that you consult a company that specializes in this type of work. See our Resource Page
Special considerations for video projection would include brightness and the size of the image. A rule of thumb is that the width of the image (standard television, not HDTV format) should be ⅛ the distance to the farthest seat. If this distance is exceeded, then supplemental monitors should be supplied so that people in the furthest seats can have clarity of viewing. Concern needs to be taken in the coordination of the screen and the lighting of the platform, so that the brightness of the image is not compromised by ambient light. Generally speaking, the brightest and best images are achieved with rear screen projection. This is considerably more expensive than direct front projection, however, and there needs to be a significant amount of space allocated behind the screen. In direct front projection the position of the projector itself varies according to the lens, however, standard projector lenses should be positioned at a distance of 1½ times the width of the screen. A lens which would allow projection further than this distance is significantly more expensive. These are just simple and basic guides to help you plan. Again, when video production is involved it is important to consult a qualified expert.
One final consideration in video production is the theatrical lighting, and in particular, the illumination of the human face. There should be light falling directly on the face, rather than from above the head, creating awkward shadows at the eyes nose and chin. Additionally, there should be a level of back lighting to help round the shoulders in the image of the screen. There are many firms that will provide coordinated packages for audio, video production and projection needs as well as the theatrical components. Resource Page
For more on this topic see: http://theministrycafe.com/2006/11/22/worship-centers-acoustics-and-theatrics/