Acoustics
The acoustics of a facility are usually
overlooked until it's too late or they are so
bad that they make the audio unmanageable.
However, acoustics considerations should
represent some of the first steps taken—from the
acoustical quality of the room itself, to noise
from the HVAC system, to leakage of sound from
other rooms within the church building. When
accounted for up front, during the planning and
design stages, dealing with acoustical
considerations can be much more cost effective
and less stressful than making changes once all
the construction is complete.
More so existing spaces such as office parks,
business complexes, and warehouse spaces are
being converted to worship spaces as well as
treating existing facilities. Nick Colleran,
vice president of Acoustics First Corp. in
Richmond, Va., says, "Acoustical wall panels are
the first and most prevalent item added to a
sanctuary to reduce reverberation and control
sound reflections. For a multi-purpose room, the
product is ceiling baffles."
It is in these environments that acoustical
considerations are key to the success of the
facility in accomplishing its new purpose. Or,
churches that were built prior to high-energy
music (bass, drums and amplified instruments)
becoming commonplace in a worship setting.
"Acoustical wall panels provide the
best-looking, lowest cost, and easiest to
install first stage of acoustical treatment for
a traditional sanctuary that must now
accommodate a high-energy praise band," says
Colleran, however, he cautions, "A sound system
should not be bought solely because it sounded
good somewhere else. It may be a good indication
that the designer specified correctly for the
room, and the same designer may be a good choice
to analyze and recommend a system for your
room."
