Bringing the Basilica St. Louis to Life with a New Sound System
COMPANY
Basilica St. Louis, King of France
CHALLENGE
During a multi-million dollar renovation of the Basilica was in need of an upgraded sound system in the church.
SOLUTION
Provide an innovated sound solution without visual distraction
OVERVIEW:
During the most recent renovation, the Basilica decided to invest in a new sound system that would completely transform the way parishioners experience Mass. While the gothic architecture of the 1834 structure was beautiful, it provides a problematic acoustical environment. The hard surfaces are not ideal for speech intelligibility making it difficult for the congregation to understand sermons. The archdiocese turned to Tech Electronics for a solution for the sanctuary’s audio issues.
SOLUTION:
Tech Electronics’, Pro Sound Account Manager, Tony Badamo, choose a solution from Renkus-Heinz that would not only integrate seamlessly with the church’s classic architecture but provide spoken word intelligibility.
“Any other solution involves hanging large, boxy speakers in the sanctuary, which would create visual distractions without addressing the intelligibility issues,” said Badamo.
The Old Cathedral is now equipped with the latest audio technology:
- Iconyx IC24-R-II Columns – the latest in digital, steerable technology are designed to precisely focus full-range audio content and consistent coverage where needed.
- CX7-II – Mechanically Steerable Line Array columns to deliver clear, full-range sounds to the altar
- 2-way TRX81 Loudspeakers – to provide a direct monitor feed to the balcony choir.
- BSS Audio DSP – for mixing and audio routing.
- Shure ULXP – wireless microphone systems w/Countryman E6 earsets.
- Tascam SSR200 – digital recording.
- Listen Technologies RF – hearing assistance system
- Williams Sound – Digi-Wave wireless intercom system.
FEEDBACK:
“After Tech Electronics upgraded our sound system, I was told it was the first time people could understand the message and clearly hear what I was saying.” – Rev. Richard Quirk, Assistant Pastor.
CUSTOMER BACKGROUND:
The Basilica of Saint Louis known as The Old Cathedral is located in the heart of downtown St. Louis. The beautiful structure was completed in 1834 and was the first Cathedral west of the Mississippi River. In 1961, The Cathedral underwent renovations to meet the national historic landmark standards and added a museum. After those renovations were completed Pope John XXIII designated the Old Cathedral as the Basilica of Saint Louis, The King, officially making it a historically significant sacred space. It was not until 2011 that the first major restoration of the Old Cathedral began. Today, the Old Cathedral is still a vibrant and thriving parish with over 200 dedicated parishioners.
ABOUT TECH ELECTRONICS:
Tech Electronics is a technology services organization headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri with a network of six offices across the Midwest. At Tech Electronics, we specialize in life safety and communication systems in the education, healthcare, construction, government, commercial-industrial, SMB, and worship industries, designing solutions to fit each site’s unique layout and priorities. From fire, security, telephone, IT services, professional sound, intercom, and audio/visual systems, our tailor-made systems deliver connection and protection, ensuring that our customers are at their technological best.
