‘The Griffith Observatory is such an iconic and recognisable landmark,’ says Solotech Business Development Representative, Marc Nutter. ‘The existing sound system in the Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon Theater was no longer meeting the expectations of such a prestigious venue. A modern system was required that was capable of delivering high-quality audio performance while ensuring usability for staff with limited technical training.’
Fron its Hollywood hills location, the Griffith Observatory overlooks the city of Los Angeles as an emblem of cinematic history and scientific discovery. A world-class educational and entertainment landmark, the observatory is known for its appearances in classic films and its long-standing role in bringing astronomy closer to the public.
The 190-seat Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon Theater is one of the building’s most impressive venues, hosting public programmes, presentations and panels every day to explore the latest in science and astronomy.
In need of a new audio solution to address the specific requirements of the theatre, The Griffith Observatory Foundation called upon audiovisual technology specialist Solotech and consultant TheatreDNA, who recommended a Renkus-Heinz loudspeaker solution.
‘From the beginning, we recognised the need for a solution that could address the unwanted reflections and uncontrolled audio challenges, without disrupting the theater’s strict aesthetic values,’ adds Griffith Observatory Theater Programs Manager, Patrick So. ‘We worked with Solotech and TheatreDNA, who guided us through a range of potential options while assessing coverage, clarity, and visual impact.’
A digitally steerable line array was considered the most suitable option, leading to the recommendation of the Renkus-Heinz Iconyx Gen 5 loudspeaker series.
‘A single Iconyx IC16-RD model was installed behind the projection screen upstage of where speakers stand to present,’ Nutter explains. While the Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon Theater retained a dedicated playback system for film screenings, the IC16-RD was introduced exclusively for spoken word events.
‘The beam steering capabilities allow for precise vertical coverage control, directing sound towards the audience while reducing energy on the reflective surfaces, ultimately helping to improve speech intelligibility and maintain consistent SPL from the front of the auditorium to the back.’
The Griffith Observatory Foundation was involved throughout the process, from early discussions around loudspeaker options to onsite testing and final tuning. ‘Everyone involved with this project shared the same goal – to improve the audience experience of the theatre,’ states So. ‘With our values aligned, decision-making was efficient and productive.’
By positioning the loudspeaker behind the screen, audiences can focus on the presentations and speakers without distraction from the room’s technology. The wider A/V system is built around a QSC network that brings audio, video, and control into a streamlined interface, allowing museum staff to prepare and operate daily programmes and special events with greater ease and consistency.
Since the debut of the new audio system, the audience experience has improved noticeably: ‘The upgrade from the old system was immediately clear,’ So says. ‘With the IC16-RD, there’s no more feedback when presenters speak into the microphones and the entire audience can hear even the most subtle details. The immense effort that everyone has put in has led to a far more immersive and engaging experience that fully lives up to the expectations of the Griffith Observatory.’
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