For years, they had operated with just a single channel non-Clear-Com partyline system. And in the last six months, they had added the use of a second channel on their intercom system by adding a couple of Clear-Com RS-602 dual channel beltpacks. These beltpacks integrated into their existing partyline system perfectly. While this solved their initial problem of not having enough channels, another problem came up. One of the lighting designers wanted to have unimpeded communication to the lighting board operator, but every other member of the tech crew was still on a single partyline. And even with the lighting designer off the line, there was still a huge amount of congestion. Couple all of this with a tragically timed power supply failure, and an appropriately timed grant to the theater, and viola, Theater J brought in a HelixNet Partyline.
All of their
issues were resolved with one excellent HelixNet system. At first, they did not see a need for a four
channel system, but as soon as it was installed and the lines were checked, the
production manager of the space had already set up the system to incorporate
all four channels. This allowed everyone to have access to the Stage Manager on
one channel. They were also able to set up a discrete lighting channel, put all
of the on-stage run crew on the third channel, and assign the audio/projection
team on the fourth channel. This also
enabled the Stage Manager to have direct communication with the House Manager
on the SM line without having to impede on anyone else’s conversation during
pre-show/checkout. The production
manager was also surprised by how easy it was to set up and how all the
beltpacks can be daisy chained and addressed to any two of the four available
channels. HelixNet has made laying out a tech table infinitely easier.
Seeing how the
Helixnet system has expanded their ability to operate in the theater, they have
already expressed interest in replacing their single channel wireless intercom
system with a Clear-Com Tempest intercom to revolutionize how their personnel
on the wireless intercom work together.
Theater J invested
in Clear-Com’s
CC-26K headsets as well to replace many of their aging headsets. So far, they have proved to be slightly
lighter and more robust than their previous units. There has also been praise for the high audio
quality and the increased comfort of wearing the headsets over time.
Overall, HelixNet
Partyline and Clear-Com products have really improved the day to day operations
for Theater J at the DCJCC.
Joseph Foley
Joseph Foley, Founder and General Manager of Capital City Sound, has worked on many high profile events. His experience ranges from concerts on the
National Mall, large scale special events and convention work to medium street
festivals, Broadway musical tours, and televised Presidential Debates and
Inaugural Balls. The vast scope of his experience provides many insights into
different styles of events and productions.
Connect with Joseph Foley on LinkedIn, via email jfoley@capcitysound.com, or through his company website www.capcitysound.com.
About Capital City Sound
Capital City Sound is a production company, located in
the Washington, D.C. Metro area. We are bringing the knowledge and expertise of
many years of production experience. At Capital City Sound, our first priority
is to provide your events with first class service and equipment. Our core
tenets are based around the idea of providing the highest quality service, by
planning every last detail, with expert knowledge, and efficiency. When it
comes to events and productions, making life simple is key.
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