Your Church's 2009 Production Arts Buyer's Guide by Your Church

PRODUCTION ARTS

2009 CHURCH

BUYER’S GUIDE

PREPARED FOR MINISTRY

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A GROWING ENSEMBLE WORSHIP PRESENTATION SOFTWARE CONTINUES TO EVOLVE, WHILE “NO-COST” OPTIONS EMERGE.

ANDREY VOLODIN / ISTOCKPHOTO

BY WARREN RACHELE

It would seem out of place today to have the praise band strike the first notes of the chorus while everyone reaches for the hymnal, hurriedly flipping pages to find the lyrics. Instead, our eyes scan the room for the video screen on which the words will appear, smoothly transitioning from one verse to the next. As the media-saturated culture bombards us, more churchgoers display an interesting trait: Rather than seeking escape and quiet communion with God in our sanctuaries, we bring heightened expectations for the media experience in our worship. The presentation software available to worship leaders today keeps this factor in mind as it strives to make the experience more professional with each new release. Surveying the landscape during the past year (see “Worship Presentation Software” in the Sep/Oct 2007 issue of YOUR CHURCH magazine) we find the changes to the majority of the available packages to be refinements rather than revolutions. Among recent industry developments: • Achieving compatibility with Windows Vista and the associated dis-

play hardware was a major requirement met by vendors this year; • Updates to accommodate PowerPoint 2007 files were also key requirements; • Other product developments of note:

EXPRESS MediaShout introduced Express, a lower-demand, entry-level version of its software similar to SongShow Plus’ basic version. Express lowers the computer hardware requirements by a generation or two, allowing a church to use an older machine it already owns. All the necessary tools to display lyrics, announcements, and play sound and video in a worship presentation are included. At a discount price of $249, the features that have been left out may not even be missed. For example, the Bible collection includes the essentials only: King James Version, New International Version, The Message, and Reina-Valera translations, compared to the 54 included with MediaShout V3. Express also provides fewer slide transitions and included song lyrics than SongShow Plus.

The Mac user often finds limited selection in this software category. ProPresenter 3 (renewedvision.com, $399 - $799 site license) has generated some attention during the past year, winning awards and improving its compatibility across the Mac hardware line. As expected by the Mac user, the video output supports different levels of definition up to the latest and most-refined, high-definition output devices. Experienced presenters will have no problem understanding the user interface and the process of building a presentation. All the usual, expected features are present in the package, including live camera support, scripture lookup from a variety of Bibles, and support for the inclusion of DVD clips to supplement the pastor’s sermon. All in all, this looks like a good addition to the Macintosh user’s choices. Pros: • High–quality video support as expected by the Mac community • Site licensing available Cons: • Macintosh only

HYMNASTICS 3 Hymnastics 3 by Gilead Software (gileadsoftware.com) is unique among the other programs in its narrow focus on the hymnal rather than current-day praise choruses. Hymnastics offers more than just the presentation tools of its competitors by including devotional functions for the worship leader, providing additional information about the hymn or its author. To gain this ability however, you must purchase a module ($69) in addition to the presentation module ($89), which piggybacks on the basic Hymnastics module ($59). The authors may want to reconsider this packaging in light of their all-in-one competition. In addition to lyrics, Hymnastics offers musical scoring for the hymn as well as choral parts. Click the “Play Audio” button to get a MIDI-rendition of the hymn, so you won’t need an additional internet search for songs that

W W W. Y O U R C H U R C H . N E T

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PRODUCTION ARTS might be unfamiliar. These functions may save the choral leader considerable time and effort. Pros: • Expanded scoring capabilities • Clean, easy interface Cons: • “Beta” software • Modular packaging

“NO-COST” ALTERNATIVES Modern media capabilities involve significant investment on the part of the church. The software often rivals the cost of the hardware. To help with this situation, some software packages are available for free. Exercise caution in this area, as the price may reflect the true value of the tool. If the program is incomplete, buggy, will not install, will not run correctly, or is too difficult to work with, then the secondary costs of ownership overwhelm the initial savings of the free package. OpenSong (opensong.org) is an opensource presentation package with an

impressive library of contributor-developed backgrounds, Bibles, and language modules. The free-of-charge software provides all the fundamental features needed for lyric and scripture presentation. The interface is clear and intuitive, but the performance lags a bit during presentation, requiring a patient worship leader as the slides transition. Another interesting addition is Easislides (easislides.com), a no-cost presentation package of more humble aspirations. It does not have the library of media that OpenSong touts, relying mainly on Chinese and public domain contributions to build its song and Bible database. The software provides all the necessary tools to present and project songs, prayers, live video, and other media as needed—and it works without any display latency. The process of creating a worship service is a little more challenging than some other packages, but it gets the job done at the right price.

“My new software has a collection function.”

B Y D AV I D W. H A R B A U G H

SEPT/OCT 2008 YOUR CHURCH

KNOW THE REQUIREMENTS Be cautious in assuming that your choice of presentation software will run on the computer that was recently donated to the church. Graphical software places high demands on every component, so it is important to pay close attention to the suggested minimum requirements for any package that you want to purchase. Note that many packages present their minimums in a tiered fashion: very low requirements are offered with the caveat that the software will also perform minimally. If you plan to use all of the great media and presentation options, focus on the highest levels of hardware suggested, paying special attention to the following: • Processor: For the best performance and ability to use full-motion backgrounds and video as a part of your worship, you’ll need an AMD or Intel 2-GHz or better processor. Dual-core or other multi-processor configurations will offer additional performance gains. • Memory: In general, your expectations are going to be best met when the amount of memory matches the requirements of the operating system. RAM is inexpensive, so upgrading the target machine in this area should be an expected step. • Graphics Processor: The graphics display card must be capable of running dual output devices. This means that one monitor can display the running software while the other displays the worship presentation. This is not the default configuration for desktop computers, but most laptops have this ability. The graphics display card market is in a constant state of improvement, so stating a specific requirement is a risky venture. In general, a PCI Express card with 256 megabytes of video memory of a recent generation should provide more than adequate performance. Warren Rachele is a freelance writer and book author with a degree in computer science and a master’s degree from Denver Seminary. After a number of years working in the computer field, he is now the pastor of a small but growing church. Send your questions and comments to yceditor@yourchurch.net.

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PRODUCTION ARTS

AUDIO-VISUAL BUFFET

WHET YOUR APPETITE ON THIS SPREAD OF NEW AND INTERESTING PRODUCTS. BY KENT MORRIS

Just as new car models roll out each fall, media equipment manufacturers present their latest offerings in time for the Christmas production season. This year is no different, with innovative audio, video, and lighting products coming on line with features designed to make your job easier and more effective. Here, then, are some of the best:

PRIMERA BRAVO SE BLU One of the leaders in desktop disc publishing has introduced a low-cost Blu-ray duplicator with an integral full-color, direct-to-disc printer. The Bravo series has matured into a solid, reliable product base, and the addition of Blu-ray compatibility brings the line into the high-resolution image arena. As a robotic device, the SE Blu automates the process from beginning to end. The operator places a stack of blank discs into the input bin for the robotic arm to grab and place into the recorder section of the unit. Once the disc is burned, the arm moves it to the printing section, where an impressive 4,800 dots-per-inch, direct-to-disc inkjet color printer lays the image on the top. The arm returns to place the completed disc in the outbound tray. Unlike some competitors, the SE Blu sets up with just one cable, one printer cartridge, and one software program. The results are professional in every category, and the cost per disc is lower than mail order or the local print shop. Retail price is about $2,995. primera.com.

AUDIX MICROPODS Though pulpit mics are nothing new, MicroPods bring interchangeable elements and complete radio frequency immunity to the table. The M1250 capsule is a self-contained condenser mic element with no need for an external preamplifier section. It is impervious to cell phone interference. At less than one-half inch wide and only two inches long, its compact size stands in contrast to the robust sound it produces. For difficult acoustic environments, it is available in a tightly focused hypercardioid pattern or a more open conventional cardioid for the majority of situations. The optional ATS-10 stand allows the MicroPods to work where drilling into the podium is not possible. Retail price is about $400. audixusa.com.

MBT LEDPAR64 It is no secret light-emitting diodes are changing lighting for the better with lower power requirements and heat output along with simpler installation, but prices have stayed above the average church budget—until now. MBT has a solid track record of bringing esoteric lighting technology to the mainstream, and its new LED PAR cans continue the trend. With 200 diodes divided among red, green, and blue, the LEDPAR64’s RGB (red, green, and blue) color mixing can produce almost any color imaginable without the need for external gels and the accompanying holders. Five DMX channels make it usable in a sophisticated environment, while the simple, 10-switch setting ensures anyone can set the fixture quickly. With a power draw of less than 20 watts, this light can go into any youth room or fellowship hall without fear of tripping circuit breakers during an event. Retail price is about $175. mbtlighting.com.

SEPT/OCT 2008 YOUR CHURCH

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BADEN ACM/EA Every once in a while, a new instrument comes along with a built-in pedigree. TJ Baden brings a long and storied career in acoustic guitars to the market, having been the driving force at the most successful acoustic guitar company of the past two decades. Baden guitars are distinct from traditionally ornate instruments, preferring instead to showcase a minimalist look with clean lines and a simple keystone inlay at the soundhole. The tone, however, is anything but simple. Complex timbres roll off the top with ease while intonation among harmonics remains true and precise. As the company states, Baden guitars are hand built, not hand assembled. The difference is noticeable, with tapered edges and a general feeling someone noticed all the details that make a guitar personal. The addition of an Ellipse Aura pickup system from Fishman greatly enhances the guitarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s usefulness in worship settings, since the amplified tone is precisely aligned with the guitarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s acoustic sound without the need for exaggerated equalizer adjustments. In all, Baden is set to change the world of guitars once again. Retail price is about $2,200. badenguitars.com.

ANIMUSIC VIDEOS Video timers are all the rage today, and Animusic offers a refreshing way to let everyone know when the service will begin. In place of a standard background with a floating clock, this package uses imagined instruments brought to virtual life as a way to include audio among the visual landscape. From unbelievably complex harps to twenty-piece drum kits, these countdowns add interest to the proceeding without taking anything away from them. Available from the MediaShout retail site at $50 each. shoutable.com. Kent Morris is a media consultant in Atlanta, and a contributing editor to YOUR CHURCH magazine.

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PRODUCTION ARTS necessity. While third-party projector lamps are available, stay with the original brand to ensure correct lighting balance and to maintain your warranty status.

A CHEAT SHEET Additional media expendables include blank CDs and DVDs for duplication, board marking tape, gaffe stage tape, connectors, adapters, and cabling. If possible, a laminated sheet should be drawn up with the brand, model and serial number of the gear listed next to the specific replacement part number recommended by the manufacturer. Hang this sheet next to the door in the tech closet. Since all pertinent data is in sight, not behind a beam on a truss above the stage, it can literally rescue a rehearsal or program.

WHEN YOUR A-V MAINTENANCE BUDGET DIES, SO WILL YOUR EQUIPMENT. BY KENT MORRIS

You just spent tens of thousands of dollars on new gear and its installation. Once the newly minted audio, video, and lighting systems are functioning properly, it is tempting to release their budget and enjoy a respite from purchasing. However, media systems, like cars, require ongoing maintenance. From projector bulb replacement through operator training to storage cabinets, costs continue. There are ways, though, to prioritize the expenditures and maximize the benefit of each dollar spent so the outlay remains reasonable while the equipment stays healthy.

BATTERY BACKUP Expendables are an ongoing part of every ministry. Even small churches with one wireless microphone must replace the nine-volt or AA batteries at least twice a month. The costs become significant when there are a dozen or more mics to maintain. The best approach to battery usage is to develop a recurring shipment program with a vendor. Dedicated church supply houses, local battery store franchises, and online retailers offer auto-

SEPT/OCT 2008 YOUR CHURCH

mated shipping schedules aligned to individual church needs. For instance, a church with six wireless mics can receive a single, boxed monthly shipment of 24 batteries to allow weekly replacement of the old battery with a new one. This saves the frustration of scrambling for a battery on Sunday morning and the expense of paying blister-pack retail prices 24 times.

KEEP THE SPOTLIGHT PAR can, ellipsoidal, and Fresnel lamps tend to burn out just before an important event, so keep a spare lamp on hand for every six lamps in-house. Again, national franchise lighting houses are in every metropolitan area. If you reside far from a major city, turn to reputable online sources for lighting needs. Specialty lamps, such as those used in moving-head, intelligent luminaires, need one spare per instrument, especially during performance season. Video projector lamps begin to lose intensity the moment they are ignited. The light output continues to drop to the thousand-hour mark, at which time they are essentially dead. An on-hand replacement lamp from the manufacturer is a

TRAIN YOUR TEAM Every tech budget should include funds for operator training. With all the wondrous new technology available, it is easy for the equipment to outstrip the operators’ ability to control it. Reputable contractors include initial training with every system installation, but newly arrived operators may be unaware of the equipment’s potential. The first source for training is the team that provided the installation. However, in many instances, the firm is located hundreds of miles away, making an on-site session uneconomical. Choose a dedicated traveling program for hands-on seminars, either on your own system, or a similar design in a nearby classroom. Budget $500 for each occasion of on-site instruction. Most manufacturers offer classes taught by the people who originally engineered the components. They also offer training videos on their websites. Classes are usually about $200, and online teaching is usually offered at no cost. Instruction is vital for operators of digital devices, such as audio and lighting consoles, where benefits go unrealized due to lack of knowledge. As an example, digital mixers eliminate the need for outboard effects processing and dynamics control, since dozens of these devices are built into the console.

JOSHUA BLAKE / ISTOCKPHOTO

LIFE SUPPORT

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But if the operator does not know how to find, assign, and configure them, they become wasted opportunities to enhance the pastor’s sermon, improve the worship leader’s tone, and deliver the message clearly to the congregation.

SCHEDULE TUNE-UPS Once the media systems have been in use for two years, it’s time to bring in a professional to recalibrate the components and optimize the system for the best possible sound and image. When several different operators rotate through the schedule, minor miscalculations can, over time, create major performance losses. For example, moving the choir mics for an Easter production may require a resetting of the equalizer section on the console. Once the mics are returned to their original point, though, restoring the EQ may be impossible without a seasoned engineer’s ears to guide the process. In video projection, skin tone and shading can change when the old, worn-

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out stage carpet is replaced with a new hardwood floor. You probably need a pro with the proper test equipment to rebalance the colors. Typical expense for such work runs about $500 per day and includes preventive maintenance on power amp and projector filters, visual inspection of the cabling, and a report on needed repairs.

CLEAN IT UP In a perfect world, there is a place for everything. But in the real world of the tech booth, microphones, discs, gels, and markers lay on every available horizontal surface. For less than $100 you can buy lockable storage cabinets with five or more shelves inside from any home improvement store. With clearly marked locations, all media accessories can be ready, yet safely hidden from view. With proper organization, operators will immediately notice missing items and can be alerted to dwindling stockpiles. This also results in better workflow produc-

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tivity, since you’ll save many hours each month that would have been spent searching for errant items.

QUICK CALCULATIONS Your annual media system maintenance budget can be correlated to the overall size of your ministry. Though technical systems vary in complexity between similar-sized churches, these numbers serve as a rule of thumb: Attendance . . . . . . . . . . Budget Under 200 . . . . . . . . . . . $800 200 – 500 . . . . . . . . . . . . $2,000 500 – 1,000 . . . . . . . . . . $5,000 1,000 – 2,000 . . . . . . . . .$10,000 Maintenance is necessary to protect your large investment in audio, video, and lighting systems. Preventive work and a steady flow of expendable replacements are essential to the smooth operation of the tech ministry. The old axiom is true—an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Kent Morris is a media consultant in Atlanta.

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