Welcome back to the Churchfront Show! In this episode, we’re diving into some groundbreaking tech innovations that are shaking up the audio, visual, and lighting world. From Sennheiser’s latest wireless system to Shure’s cutting-edge microphones, we’ve got a lot to cover. Plus, we’ll touch on updates from Churchfront’s integration projects and preview what’s coming in 2024 and beyond.
Churchfront’s Integration Projects: The Journey So Far
2024 has been one of the busiest years yet for Churchfront’s AVL integration services. After launching our integration arm, we’ve been working with both small and midsize churches, as well as larger, new-build projects. Over the summer, we juggled multiple projects that required quick turnarounds, keeping the team on the road more than expected. While it was exhausting, the experience laid a strong foundation for what lies ahead.
Now that we’re back in a normal rhythm, you can expect more content from us, with the Churchfront Show resuming its monthly schedule and possibly some bonus episodes sprinkled in!
What Makes Churchfront’s Integration Services Unique?
Looking back at 2020, when COVID-19 led to explosive growth on our YouTube channel, we’re seeing a similar trajectory in 2024. As we’ve taken on full AVL integration services, the learning curve has been steep, but rewarding. We’ve learned more in the past six months than in the previous three years combined!
If your church is planning a major AVL upgrade, reach out to us. Churchfront is a dealer for all the top brands, and we can help design the perfect setup for your worship space. We’re always on the lookout for local hands to help us out on projects, so check out the form below to get involved.
Exciting Announcements from Churchfront Conference
The Churchfront Conference in early October felt like a family reunion. Vendors, clients, and attendees returned for another year, and it’s always great to see familiar faces. This year’s breakout sessions received incredible feedback, with many attendees walking away with new tools and skill sets that go beyond technology advice.
We also had some fantastic giveaways, including a NEXODINE microphone from Shure, Sweetwater gift cards, and acoustic panels from Primacoustic. If you haven’t attended before, it’s definitely something to add to your calendar!
Game-Changing Technology in Worship Audio
Sennheiser Spectera: The Future of Wireless Audio
Sennheiser’s new Spectera wireless system is poised to revolutionize how churches handle wireless audio. Imagine a system that combines both in-ear monitor packs and wireless microphone transmitters into a single device, all while using network cables instead of traditional RF cabling. This technology simplifies setups significantly, providing bi-directional audio over the network and making installation easier than ever.
It’s due to hit the market by summer 2025, and we can’t wait to see it in action!
Shure’s NEXODINE Microphone: A Vocalist’s Dream
Shure’s NEXODINE mic is the next level up from the classic SM58, offering a cleaner, smoother dynamic mic experience. It provides excellent feedback rejection and can be pushed without distorting, making it perfect for vocalists in live worship settings. If you’re looking for a mic upgrade, this one should be on your radar.
Lauten Audio Drum Mount: Innovative and Rock Solid
For drummers, Lauten Audio’s new microphone mount is a game-changer. Its design is inspired by camera arms, providing a secure, close mount for your drum mics. The build quality is exceptional, ensuring that your mics stay in place, even during intense worship sets.
Waves Audio and Dante Updates: AI and Dark Mode
Intelligent EQ from Waves
Waves Audio has introduced an intelligent EQ system that could change the way we mix audio forever. This system analyzes your sound and makes recommendations based on the audio’s content, whether it’s resonance suppression, EQ matching, or dynamically adjusting in real-time. This kind of tool could be a game-changer for both live and studio environments.
LV1 Classic Console
Waves also dropped their new LV1 Classic Console at the Churchfront Conference, and it’s packed with features like 64 stereo channels, 44 buses, and 16 premium preamps, all at a price point of around $8,000. While we recommend giving it six to twelve months to see how it performs in the real world, it’s an exciting option for mid-sized churches looking for a powerful yet affordable console.
Dante Controller Dark Mode
Finally, Dante Controller is getting a much-needed facelift with a new dark mode. This update, expected later this year, modernizes the UI, making it easier to use in dimly lit environments like control rooms or backstage areas.
Wireless iPad Integration: A Game-Changer
One of the most exciting pieces of tech we found recently is the AirServer, which allows for seamless wireless screencasting from an iPad to a video switcher. Unlike Apple TV, the AirServer is built for production environments, offering better stability and functionality. It’s a bit pricey at around $900, but for churches looking to simplify their iPad setups, this could be a worthwhile investment.
Final Thoughts
It’s been a whirlwind year at Churchfront, and we’re excited about the future. From cutting-edge wireless audio systems to new software tools, there’s so much innovation happening in the worship tech space. If your church is planning an AVL upgrade or you’d like to get involved with Churchfront’s projects, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Stay tuned for more updates, and we’ll see you next time on the Churchfront Show!
