Allen & Heath’s dLive Master Class: A Recap

Allen & Heath’s dLive Master Class: A Recap

Nov 13, 2024 | Lighting, NEWS, Sales, Visual

In September, Starlite had the honor of hosting the much-anticipated Allen & Heath University dLive console Master Class in our demo room. Led by industry veteran Matt Bangs, participants enjoyed a hands-on experience with the dLive system, learning on the S5000 equipped with the DM32 mix rack. They trained on the latest Firmware V2.0 with Rack Ultra FX,  gaining valuable insights into this premier digital mixing platform. The dLive system is known for its versatility and robust construction, making it suitable for a range of applications such as touring, corporate AV, houses of worship, broadcasting, and permanent installations. A highlight of the class was the introduction to the dLive Surface, the preferred method for controlling a dLive MixRack. With seven models available, from the travel-friendly CTi1500 to the expansive 36-fader S7000, there’s a surface for every need.

dLive Master Class in the Starlite demo room
Hands on Training
Matt Bangs teaches IP Controllers
dLive class session

DEEP Processing: Studio Quality On Stage

A standout feature of the dLive system is the DEEP processing, which provides emulations of iconic hardware directly within dLive’s input and mix channels, all with zero latency. This allows users to incorporate studio-quality effects right on stage, making it a favorite among top artists on stadium tours. The system also includes the Dyn8 engine, featuring dynamic EQ and compression tools that enhance sound quality and manage vocals, ensuring exceptional audio performance across various setups.

 

RackUltra FX: Cutting Edge technology. Next-generation effects

The RackUltra FX collection, powered by the new RackUltra FX card, brings together a collection of 10 new algorithms that rival the most advanced plug-ins on the market.

This cutting-edge hardware enables a suite of advanced vocal tools. These professional-grade effects bring unparalleled sonic versatility to dLive, empowering engineers across all genres to achieve studio-quality results in live settings.

 

Modular System

Modular System Design: Unmatched Flexibility

The modular mix-and-match design of the dLive system allows users to create an ideal setup tailored to their unique requirements. From high input count multi-surface configurations to ultra-compact surfaceless setups, the system provides extraordinary flexibility with minimal configuration and setup time. Show files can be easily transferred between dLive systems, eliminating the need for time-consuming conversion.

Advanced Routing: Comprehensive I/O Options

The XCVI core’s parallel mixing engines support over 800 system inputs and outputs through a wide array of I/O and digital networking options. The powerful tie-line feature enables direct patching of system inputs to outputs, with automatic handling of sample rate and format conversion, ensuring clean splits and feeds without utilizing input channels or processing power.

Dyn8 Engine: Dynamic EQ and Compression

Every dLive system is equipped with 64 Dyn8 engines, offering 4 bands of multiband compression and 4 bands of dynamic EQ. These tools are crucial for managing vocals, enhancing IEM mixes, and refining various sources or buses, ensuring exceptional sound quality on any stage.

Takeaways

Overall Starlite was thrilled to host such an informative and engaging event. With Matt Bangs’ expert insights, attendees left with a deeper understanding of the dLive system’s features and its potential to elevate their audio setups. We look forward to organizing more events that showcase industry-leading technology and expertise within our community

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Starlite Celebrates Dan McKay’s Recognition as a 2024 Executive of the Year

Starlite Celebrates Dan McKay’s Recognition as a 2024 Executive of the Year

Nov 12, 2024 | Lighting, NEWS, Sales, Visual

Since joining Starlite just one year ago, Dan has demonstrated an exceptional ability to navigate the complexities of the audiovisual and lighting industry. His extensive experience and innovative approach have reshaped our operational strategies and set the stage for one of the most financially successful years in Starlite’s history.
SJ Biz Executives of the Year

Congrats to Dan Mckay!

We are thrilled to announce that Dan McKay, our esteemed Vice President of Systems Integration, has been recognized as one of South Jersey Biz’s Executives of the Year for 2024. This accolade highlights Dan’s transformative impact at Starlite, where his leadership and vision have propelled our company toward unprecedented growth and success.

Dan’s leadership style is rooted in collaboration and open communication, fostering a culture where every team member feels valued and empowered. Under his guidance, our Integration team—responsible for the installation and programming of sophisticated theatrical lighting and AV systems—has evolved into a cohesive unit that operates with remarkable efficiency. Dan’s commitment to building trust within the team has reinvigorated our department, creating a dynamic environment where positivity thrives and productivity soars.

One of Dan’s ongoing initiatives has been the expansion of our service department, which he views as essential for both financial growth and a customer-centric approach. By leveraging data and key metrics, he ensures that our strategic decisions are informed and effective, paving the way for sustainable success in the years to come.

Moreover, Dan’s focus on professional development and talent acquisition has strengthened our Integration team, equipping them to tackle complex projects with confidence. Regular team meetings encourage the exchange of ideas and best practices, further enhancing our collaborative spirit.

At Starlite, we are incredibly grateful for Dan’s dedication and passion. His exceptional contributions have not only driven our current achievements but have also laid a solid foundation for future success. We believe this recognition as an Executive of the Year is a testament to his hard work and visionary leadership.

Please join us in congratulating Dan McKay on this well-deserved honor. We look forward to continuing our journey under his guidance as we strive for even greater heights together.

Tips for Upgrading Your Auditorium Lighting

Tips for Upgrading Your Auditorium Lighting

Sep 26, 2024 | Equipment, Lighting, Sales, Systems, Visual

In the world of auditorium performances and events, lighting is not just functional—it’s transformative. It sets the tone, directs attention, and enhances the overall aesthetic of any production. Understanding the importance of lighting is key to ensuring every performance is viewed in the best light possible. At Starlite, we specialize in elevating your auditorium’s lighting to enhance both visibility and ambiance, ensuring that every seat in the house has the perfect view.

 

Assessing Your Current Lighting Setup

Evaluating Existing Lighting

To start, take a critical look at your current lighting. Consider the brightness, the reach of the lights across the auditorium, and whether shadows obscure the view from any angle. Perform tests during various events to see if the current setup meets the diverse visual demands of different performances.

 

If you notice uneven lighting, frequent bulb outages, or an inability to adapt the lighting mood for different shows, it might be time for an upgrade. Modern lighting systems offer greater flexibility and reliability, which can significantly improve both the performer’s and the audience’s experience.

How to Design Lighting for an Auditorium

Latest Trends in Auditorium Lighting

LED Technology

LED lighting is a game-changer for auditoriums, offering unparalleled control over color and intensity with significantly lower energy consumption. Replacing incandescent lighting fixtures will allow you to use significantly fewer fixtures. This combined with the energy efficiency leads to a more cost effective and dynamic lighting installation.

 

Advances in Lighting Control Systems

Lighting control systems have revolutionized in the past few years, architectural systems have more control than ever over more complicated systems. While lighting control consoles have surged forward to have more processing power than ever and are able to control more aspects with ease. Combining these two systems allows non-experts to get the looks that they want with ease and experts the ability create art with light.

 

Innovative Lighting Design Techniques

Using advanced technology such as moving light fixtures allows designers to create any look they may dream of using fewer fixtures. Using these fixtures in combination with your static lights allows for infinite design choices up until the moment the audience enters the space.

 

Choosing the Right Lighting Equipment

Selecting the right fixtures involves more than just choosing lights that look good. Consider the lumens (light output), color temperature, and beam angles to ensure coverage across the entire stageand audience area. We have laid out some commonly used fixture types below:

 

What kind of lights are used in an auditorium?

  • Ellipsoidal Reflector Spotlights (ERS): These are versatile and can be used to spotlight areas or create gobo effects.
  • Fresnels: Known for their soft, wide light, they are ideal for washing a scene with color.
  • PARs: These are used for flooding an area with light and use different lenses to achieve different levels of coverage.
  • Followspots: These are used to highlight and follow performers as they move across the stage. They are manually controlled manually from the fixture itself.
  • Moving Heads: These fixtures can move to aim their light anywhere on stage. These come in wash and profile variants. Each have their unique advantages, reach out to your local dealer to learn which is best for your application.
  • Strip Lights and Cyc Lights: Used to light up a cyclorama or large swaths of a set background.

 

Each type of light contributes to the overall design by providing different intensities, colors, and effects, allowing for a fully customizable stage environment.

 

What colors used for stage lighting?

The three primary colors used in stage lighting are red, green, and blue. These fundamental colors can be mixed in various ways to create a wide spectrum of hues, allowing lighting designers to achieve almost any color they desire for dramatic effects, mood setting, and thematic presentations on stage. As technology advances manufacturers are adding more colors to the LEDs to ensure the highest quality of light.

 

How many footcandles are required in an auditorium?

Onstage your light levels will change with the mood of the performance that is happening. In the audience not during show time you are looking for around  10-15 foot-candles. During a production when the house lights are out you should have around 0.2 foot-candles at the floor of the aisles. It’s important to tailor the lighting intensity based on the specific activities and visual requirements of each event held in the auditorium.

 

What is the best lighting for a theater?

The best lighting for a theater typically involves a combination of fixtures:

  • LED ERS, Fresnels and PARs for front lighting and washing the stage.
  • Moving lights for added flexibility and advanced features.
  • Followspots to highlight actors during performances.

 

Integrating these types with appropriate control systems allows for precision and creativity in theatrical lighting, enabling designers to effectively tell a story or convey emotion through lighting.

 

Installation Considerations for Upgrading Auditorium Lighting

Steps for a Successful Installation

Pre-Planning: The first step in a successful lighting installation is a thorough pre-planning phase. This involves assessing the auditorium’s existing layout and infrastructure. Understanding the spatial dimensions, power supply locations, and current lighting setup helps in designing an efficient upgrade plan. It is often best to bring an expert in for this portion as they may notice minute details of your space that could help or hinder in the process.

 

Consultation with Experts: Consulting with lighting designers and engineers is crucial. These professionals bring a wealth of experience and can offer tailored advice on the best types of lighting fixtures and configurations that meet the specific needs of your auditorium.

 

Choosing the Right Equipment: The choice should align with the auditorium’s functional requirements and the types of performances it hosts. Allow the experts to make recommendations when it comes to the right equipment. From manufacturers to which of the many options for each type of light an expert can make sure you are covered.

 

To ensure the upgrade process is as smooth as possible, schedule installations during off-hours or closed seasons. This approach minimizes the impact on scheduled events. Additionally, maintaining clear and open communication with all stakeholders—such as management, technical staff, and event planners—about the timeline and potential impacts is essential.

 

Maximizing the Impact of New Lighting

Using advanced 3D modeling tools can aid in visualizing potential lighting setups before physical installation. This technology allows for experimenting with different angles and heights, helping to determine the optimal placement for achieving the best coverage and visual effects. Investing in programmable lighting systems can also greatly enhance the flexibility of your auditorium lighting. These systems can be adjusted for various event types, whether it’s a lecture, a play, or a concert, providing customizability and ease of use.

Ensuring a Lasting Lighting Solution

To ensure longevity and optimal performance of your new lighting systems, regular cleaning of lenses and fixtures is necessary to maintain brightness and clarity. Additionally, it’s important to check and replace any worn-out wires or connectors to prevent potential hazards and ensure functionality.

 

Establish a routine maintenance schedule based on the manufacturer’s recommendations and the specific usage patterns of your auditorium. Training your staff on basic upkeep and troubleshooting techniques is also beneficial, as it enables timely responses to any issues that may arise.

 

By carefully considering these factors and following these guidelines, you can significantly enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your auditorium’s lighting. This ensures that every event is not only well-lit but also leaves a lasting impression on its audience.

 

Choosing the Right Partner

Select a provider that offers comprehensive services, from consultation and design to installation and support. Experience, portfolio, and customer reviews are also important. Starlite provides customized lighting solutions with an emphasis on innovation and customer satisfaction, backed by a team of experts dedicated to delivering top-notch service and support.

 

With Starlite’s expertise, you can ensure your auditorium lighting needs are met with the highest standards. Reach out today to learn how our solutions can transform your audiovisual experience, ensuring it’s dynamic and future-ready.

 

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Live Sound 101: What to Look for in a Sound System for Events

Live Sound 101: What to Look for in a Sound System for Events

Aug 21, 2024 | Audio, Equipment, Event Technology, Lighting, Production, Sales, Visual

Whether you’re hosting a conference, concert, or corporate event, it is important to understand the basics of a sound system. This guide will explain what to look for in an event sound system, covering the essentials from audio mixers to speaker placement, and offering expert tips to help you achieve flawless sound. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to collaborate effectively with your audiovisual provider and ensure your event leaves a lasting impression.

 

Understanding the Basics of a Sound System

 

High-quality audio is critical to communicating your message and engaging your audience.  Poor sound quality can have a negative impact on an event and can cause unintended consequences. You may not need to become an expert, but understanding the basics will help you when collaborating with your audiovisual provider.

 

Audio Mixer

Sound systems for events include an audio mixer, which processes and combines audio signals before routing them to speakers. Modern digital mixers have become industry standard due to their flexibility, advanced routing, and the ability to save settings. Traditional analog mixers are becoming less common, but are also still in use for less complex or budget-conscious events.

Speakers

Speaker selection depends on venue size, crowd size, and whether the event is indoors or outdoors. Line-array speakers offer scalability, wide coverage and significant control. While line-array speakers are centrally located, point-source speakers are used when distributing speakers throughout the venue is preferred. Active speakers have built-in amplification and often include on-board signal processing. Passive speakers require external amplifiers and processing.

Microphones

The type and number of microphones depend on the event’s needs. Wired mics work well for stationary use, while their wireless counterparts allow mobility. Handheld mics are often used for vocal performances and speaking engagements. Lavaliers and head worn mics can be a good fit for theatre or hands-free presentations. Instrument-specific mics ensure proper sound capture for musical performances.

Power Amplifiers

These devices boost audio signals from the mixer to the speakers. The power level, measured in watts, must match the power requirement of the speakers.

Signal Processing

For added audio control and effects, outboard equipment like compressors, limiters, reverb, and delay can customize and enhance sound attributes.

Cables & Accessories

Common sound system accessories may include cabling, stands, rigging hardware and road cases. These accessories are vital for maintaining the integrity and functionality of your sound system.

Factors to Consider When Designing a Sound System

 

Venue

A major consideration is the event and venue size and type. The venue’s shape, ceiling height, and building materials affect sound quality. Larger venues need powerful systems to project sound effectively without distortion, ensuring clear sound across greater distances. The number of attendees also determines the necessary power and coverage.

 

Purpose

The purpose of the event is also important. Conferences need systems for speech intelligibility, while live music concerts require high-fidelity music reproduction. In addition, balancing cost and performance is crucial. Finding a professional audio system that fits your budget while meeting your event’s needs is key.

 

Practicality

Sound systems for events requiring frequent setup and teardown should be lightweight and easy to transport. The weather rating of equipment should be considered for events being held outdoors.

 

Staffing

The feature set and complexity of an audio system should be matched with the technical expertise of the operator. For best results, experienced audio engineers can be provided by your audiovisual provider. If you choose to operate it yourself, get educated. There are many online resources available from equipment manufacturers. Your equipment provider may also available to assist you in choosing the right equipment and to answer many of your questions.

 

Tips and Tricks for Designing Event Sound

 

When designing a sound system for an event, the choices you make can significantly impact the overall audio quality and audience experience. From selecting the right type of speakers to choosing the appropriate mixing console, each decision plays a critical role in delivering clear, powerful sound. Custom configurations tailored to your event’s specific needs will help you achieve the best results — here are a few tips and tricks:

 

1. Confirm that the venue has sufficient power to handle not just audio, but all aspects that will be in-use during the event (lighting, band, catering, etc.). Locate breaker panel(s) ahead of time.

 

2. The placement of speakers and microphones is crucial for sound quality and feedback control. Speakers should be positioned to cover the audience evenly without creating dead zones or excessive overlap. Microphones need to be placed to avoid picking up unwanted noise and feedback. Ensuring proper placement can make a significant difference in the clarity and balance of the sound.

 

3. Test the system before the event to ensure everything runs smoothly. Verify that wireless microphone frequencies are free of interference from other nearby devices.  Inform presenters about common microphone techniques.

 

4. Equalization (EQ) is vital for optimizing sound quality and reducing feedback. Proper use of EQ can enhance clarity, balance frequencies, and tailor the sound to the venue’s specific acoustics. High or low-pass filters and parametric EQ are commonly used to address problematic frequencies and ensure a clean, clear audio output.

 

5. Pay attention to time alignment, which ensures that sound from all speakers reaches the audience simultaneously — critical in larger venues with multiple speaker setups. Misaligned speakers can muddy the sound. Using digital signal processors (DSPs) to adjust the timing allows you to synchronize audio output and create a cohesive listening experience.

 

6. As the venue fills with attendees, the required volume of your system increases, so make sure the system is slightly bigger than what your venue requires. Monitor and constantly adjust levels as needed throughout the event.

FAQs: Event Sound Systems

Here are some of the most common questions about sound systems for events—and their answers.

Q: What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a sound system for an event?
A: The most important factor is the size and type of the event. This includes the venue’s size, shape, and acoustic properties, as well as the number of attendees and the nature of the event (e.g., conference, concert, corporate gathering). These elements determine the power and type of sound system needed to ensure clear, high-quality audio.
Q: How do I choose the right speakers for my event?
A: Choosing the right speakers depends on the venue size, location, and type of event. Line-array speakers offer scalability, wide coverage and significant control. Point-source speakers are used when distributing speakers throughout the venue is preferred.
Q: Do I need a digital or analog audio mixer?
A: The choice between a digital or analog audio mixer depends on your event’s complexity and your budget. Digital mixers offer greater flexibility, advanced routing options, and the ability to save settings. Analog mixers may be suitable for simpler setups.
Q: How can I ensure high sound quality at my event?
A: High sound quality is achieved through clear, dynamic, and well-balanced audio. This involves proper speaker placement, using high-quality cables and accessories, and employing equalization (EQ) techniques to optimize sound for the venue’s acoustics. Testing and adjustment of the system before and during the event are also crucial
Q: What are some tips for setting up a sound system for an outdoor event?
A: For outdoor events, ensure the sound system is weather-resistant and powerful enough to cover the area. Position speakers to cover the audience evenly and avoid dead zones. Test wireless microphone frequencies to prevent interference and ensure all equipment is securely set up to withstand environmental conditions.
Q: Why is equalization (EQ) important in event sound systems?
A: Equalization (EQ) is essential for enhancing sound quality by balancing frequencies and reducing feedback. Proper use of EQ can address problematic frequencies, improve clarity, and tailor the sound to the specific acoustics of the venue. This ensures a clean and clear audio output for your event.

Avoid the Guesswork and Let the Professionals Design Your Sound System

If you have an important event, chances are you’ve got your hands full. You may benefit from the technical expertise offered by an experienced provider. Starlite has the best equipment available, and when it comes to executing the ideal event, you can avoid the guesswork and leave it to us. Just as we have in our previous work, our experienced team will ensure that every element of your system is handled with precision and care.

With decades of experience our Event Technology team is ready for your project’s consultation.

 

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Making the Switch: The Benefits of an LED Theatrical Lighting System

Making the Switch: The Benefits of an LED Theatrical Lighting System

Jul 31, 2024 | NEWS, Production, Sales, Systems

Why LED?

In the ever-evolving world of theatrical lighting, advancements in technology have continually transformed the way we illuminate stages and create captivating performances. The most significant shift in recent years has been the transition from traditional theatrical incandescent and halogen lighting systems to LED source theatrical fixtures. At Starlite, we have been a part of this change for many clients and actively understand the impact this transition can have on production quality, efficiency, and overall audience experience.

 

Energy Efficiency 

 

First and foremost, LED theatrical lighting systems offer remarkable energy efficiency compared to their traditional counterparts. Traditional lighting fixtures, such as incandescent and halogen lamps, convert a significant portion of the energy they consume into heat, rather than light. This not only leads to higher energy costs but also necessitates robust cooling systems to manage the excess heat. In contrast, LED fixtures are designed to maximize light output while minimizing heat production. This results in a substantial reduction in energy consumption, translating into lower operational costs and a more sustainable lighting solution. For venues and production companies, this shift to LED technology aligns with broader efforts to reduce carbon footprints and embrace greener practices. Energy efficiency comes from reducing the power draw of each fixture. The versatility of color-changing LEDs means using far fewer fixtures and therefore less energy.

 

Versatility and Performance 

 

Another critical advantage of LED theatrical lighting systems is their versatility and superior performance capabilities. LED fixtures offer precise control over color, color temperature and intensity, enabling lighting designers to achieve a wide range of effects with unparalleled accuracy. Unlike traditional lighting, which often requires the use of gels and filters to modify color, LED systems can digitally adjust hues, allowing for seamless transitions and dynamic lighting changes. This flexibility not only enhances the visual storytelling on stage but also simplifies the technical setup and reduces the need for extensive inventory of consumables.

 

In addition, the longevity and durability of LED fixtures significantly outshine traditional lighting options. LEDs have a longer operational life, often lasting tens of thousands of hours before needing replacement. This extended lifespan reduces maintenance demands and minimizes the frequency of costly and time-consuming lamp changes. For production teams, this means more consistent performance and fewer disruptions during critical moments. Additionally, the robust construction of LED fixtures makes them more resistant to the rigors of transportation and handling, ensuring reliability across multiple events and productions.

 

The Bottom Line

 

Simply put, the transition to LED theatrical lighting systems represents a pivotal improvement for the industry. At Starlite, we are committed to helping our clients harness these advancements to elevate their productions. By embracing LED technology, venues and production companies can achieve greater energy efficiency, enhanced creative capabilities, and long-term cost savings, all while contributing to a more sustainable future. With over 40 years of experience, Starlite continues to lead the way in providing innovative lighting solutions that illuminate not just stages, but the path forward for the entire industry.

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