iDR is a Digital Signal Processing (DSP) audio system for fixed installation into any type of venue. It comprises a range of hardware units, wall plates and remote controllers which build into integrated systems, all set up using iDR System Manager software. Control parameters are saved to patches, which may then be recalled by the operator using front panel keys, remote wall plates or virtual wall plates using PL Designer software.
Highfield Church's original installation was constructed around a DR66, which provided the core signal routing, room EQ and delay processing. The Church tailored its new system to build on these necessities, using an iDR-8 unit, an iDR-in 8-channel input expander with PL-Anet remote control over Cat 5 cable with a PL-4 wall plate, PL-5 infra-red hand-held controller and a PL-6 fader panel. The iDR system has significantly increased capacity and the integrated remote control capability of the PL units has allowed greater flexibility.
Sound supervisor Adrian Pickering said: "Highfield caters for many events such as funerals, weddings, christenings and several Sunday services, all of which in audio terms are similar to live theatre performances. As sound supervisor, my top priority is to gain the best clarity and intelligibility for the participants of each event. The installation of the iDR system has at last provided a solution which enables me to achieve precise control of the Church's sound set-up from several key areas in the building. On a typical Sunday, there are four services, said Holy Communion, a family service, a traditional Anglican service and an informal worship service in the evening. For each event, I need to consider input for a band and singers - channeled through our Allen & Heath GL2200 mixer for larger events - as well as radio mics for the ministers and other worship leaders positioned around the church.
"Each event has different criteria from volume, varying acoustic patterns depending on the size of the congregation, to background music and even location. For instance, some of the smaller services take place in the chancel where the PL-4 wall plate is used in conjunction with the iDR-8 automatic mixer facilities to generate a good induction loop signal in the area.
"The iDR's programmable patches create a sequence of automated sound settings, which enable the operator, wherever they are based in the Church, to produce the best sound quality for the type of event. Furthermore, it is important that church staff, often local volunteers with very little technical training, can use the system with confidence."
Highfield Church is currently planning to build on the system with the addition of the soon to be released PL-8, a wall box switch unit, which can be used to interface with other equipment such as fire alarms or lights and remote PA racks. The Church has recently installed a video presentation system and it is anticipated that the iDR-8 will be extended to incorporate video switching with the audio, via the PL-8 remote module.
(Lee Baldock)
