Canada - The Niagara Parks Power Station in Niagara Falls, Ontario, has undergone a transformative journey, evolving from an industrial powerhouse to an immersive museum that blends history, technology, and storytelling. As part of this transformation, two new exhibits were introduced: the Tesla Coil Exhibit and the Niagara Parks Tunnel.
These exhibits needed an advanced audio solution to enhance the experience, support live demonstrations, and ensure that both the exhibits were amplified with clarity. The solution was found in the technology of 1 Sound loudspeakers.
Located in a former power plant, the Niagara Parks Power Station museum faced acoustical challenges in its vast, industrial space. To overcome these challenges, Branch AV was contracted to design and install a high-performance audio system for both exhibits. Branch AV’s goal was to create an audio setup that could handle live demonstrations, video projections, ambient experiences, and private events, all while delivering exceptional sound quality.
For the Tesla Coil Exhibit, Branch AV needed an audio solution that could support hourly presentations, video projections, music playback, and private events. The 1 Sound Tower LCC44 loudspeakers were selected as the primary left and right speakers, supported by two Tower LF44 low-frequency extension columns. This setup provided full-range, high-fidelity sound with clarity, perfect for the museum's dynamic, multi-purpose needs.
The setup also included a Shure Beta 58A wireless microphone, used by the museum staff for the hourly presentations. This microphone was a great choice, ensuring clear communication with visitors even when there may be louder ambient room noise.
Branch AV worked closely with 1 Sound’s hardware to create custom mounts for the Tower speakers, which were securely installed inside the alternator structure. The compact size of the LCC44 allowed for this precise placement while maintaining a clean aesthetic for the exhibit. They hid the Towers in plain sight, mounting the loudspeakers into a featured structure in the exhibit. The LCC44’s true line array design also prevented feedback, which was essential for ensuring that presenters could walk directly in front of the speakers without issue.
For the Tunnel Exhibit, located in a carved-out space beneath Niagara Falls, the audio design needed to overcome the constant exposure to moisture. The tunnel’s construction exposed the system to significant water flow, making waterproof, durable equipment a necessity. 1 Sound’s IP55-rated speakers, including the LCC44 towers and WSUB45 subwoofers, were the perfect fit for this wet environment. The long-throw capability of the Tower Series minimised the number of loudspeakers required while ensuring deep, immersive sound throughout the tunnel.
The WSUB45 subwoofers, designed to be weather-resistant, delivered low-end response, further enhancing the sensory experience for visitors traveling through the tunnel.
“The Niagara Parks Power Station is charging ahead in creating interactive experiences for its visitors,” explained George Puthenkulam, partner of Branch AV. “For their latest exhibits, we provided streamlined AV systems tailored to each unique space, enhancing the storytelling behind the technology. The 1 Sound Tower Series was the perfect fit for the Tesla Exhibit, delivering exceptional full-range clarity and power. Presenters walk directly in front of the speakers, and there’s no feedback. With 1 Sound, we've achieved what we proudly believe to be the best museum sound.”
