Acoustics
Acoustics is both a science and an art. Architectural acoustics include three main areas of study: room acoustics, sound transmission and mechanical noise control. Architectural acoustics deal with the effects of enclosed boundaries on sound.
Room acoustics can be defined as the behavior of sound when it is produced in an enclosed space. Sound behaves much differently in a room compared to an open air or free-field environment such as a football field. It is very important to understand that an audio system is at the mercy of the acoustics of the room where it is located. No audio system can compensate for poor room acoustics.
Sound Transmission is primarily concerned with sound isolation between adjacent spaces and between indoors and out. Limiting the amount of sound transmission between areas is the principal objective. Transmission loss of a partition describes how much sound level is lost when passing through a partition. The less sound passing through equates to a higher transmission loss.
Mechanical noise control is primarily concerned with achieving low noise output levels from the heating ventilation and air conditioning systems. There are many sources of noise within the HVAC systems ranging from fans and motors to air turbulence and air diffuser noise. Critical listening spaces such as sanctuaries, auditoriums, classrooms, libraries, and conference rooms should be free of excessive mechanical noise.
Walthall and Associates specialize in navigating the engineered science and subjective art of acoustics.
AV & Technical Systems Design
Audio-visual systems are composed of numerous components, specifically designed to provide the user operational control of audio, video and entertainment experiences. Technical systems range from basic audio reinforcement to complex multi-sensorial systems designed to deliver a unique experience to the audience.
Audio reinforcement systems are comprised of input sources, such as microphones and playback devices, processing equipment to route, tune and tailor the source audio, and loudspeaker output devices. The various components connect together, each relying on the other, to form a system designed to increase the source volume to the listener’s ear.
Video projection systems, similar in nature to audio reinforcement systems, increase the size and brightness of the source image. Whether camera sources, live programming or pre-produced content, video projection systems demand specific standards be met in order to properly deliver the visual experience required and desired.
Technical systems include a wide variety of systems. Video teleconferencing, distance learning, instructional media, theatrical and AV distribution all require attention to detail in order to achieve the express desired end result.
Walthall and Associates’ combined experience in AV & Technical system design exceeds 40 years and over 350 completed projects.
Automation & Control
Automation and Control systems provide an intuitive operational gateway for the end user. From the basic to the complex, technical systems are easily operated and controlled by touch sensing panels and button stations.
Audio reinforcement systems are easily configured and operated by even the most novice of users. The magic is behind the curtain; the control system processor automates the show.
From video to lighting, to complete show control, automation and control systems make operation easy. Conference rooms, board rooms and classrooms, whether simple or complex, demand ease of operation so the officers and instructors can focus on their content, not the operation of the media system.
Today’s automation and control systems provide the simple, easy to understand user’s interface with high tech systems.
Production lighting is the critical element with which the visual experience becomes reality. Fundamental lighting methods are essential for broadcast production and the artistic light pallet key for the theatre lighting designer.
Production and theatrical lighting systems are a combination of electrical infrastructure, positions and fundamental system components. When properly designed and coordinated, the result is a lighting and control system that illuminates the program with ease, precision and artistic value.
Walthall and Associates has greater than 30 years of combined experience in conference and boardroom systems, control integration and programming.