Broward Center for the Performing Arts - South Florida
Mainline Connects partnered with Dream Vision to install a simple, user-friendly Allen & Heath AHM audio system at the Broward Center, allowing non-technical users to easily control audio and Bluetooth connections in a high-traffic ballroom venue.
Solutions & Services
This project centered around installing a user-friendly Allen & Heath audio system for simple source control in a ballroom venue.
System Design
UI Design
Programming
Commissioning
Reconnecting with Dream Vision
Mainline Connects was once again called upon by long-time partner Dream Vision, this time to assist with a project at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. The goal was to implement a simple yet reliable audio system for a ballroom venue that would allow staff to easily connect Bluetooth devices and switch between audio sources. The Mainline Connects team worked closely with Dream Vision to design and commission a user-friendly solution that met the facility's needs and expectations.
Simplicity and Reliability in Audio Control
At the Broward Center, the staff requested a streamlined audio system that could be operated without technical expertise. With this in mind, we recommended and installed an Allen & Heath AHM processor, fitted with an optional Dante card for enhanced connectivity. This processor is known for its versatility in routing audio sources and managing input controls, particularly in non-technical environments such as ballrooms and meeting spaces.
To provide effortless control over the audio system, we installed Allen & Heath IP-1 controllers. These simple wall-mounted controllers allow users to switch between different sources, such as a Bluetooth device or a production mixer, and adjust volume levels with ease. The menu structure was designed to be intuitive and clearly labeled, ensuring that any staff member could quickly understand and operate the system without needing AV expertise.
Seamless Integration and Training
One of the key challenges of this project was ensuring the system was both highly functional and easy to use, despite the AV integrator being unfamiliar with the Allen & Heath AHM processor. Mainline Connects not only handled the system programming and commissioning, but we also provided hands-on training for Dream Vision’s team. This included guiding them through the use of Allen & Heath's proprietary AHM System Manager software, which controls the processor, ensuring that they could confidently install and configure similar systems in the future.
Key Features of the System
Allen & Heath AHM Processor: A rack-mounted matrix processor designed for routing audio sources in permanent installations. The processor’s Dante card enabled easy integration with a Bluetooth wall plate and the venue’s production mixer, giving the staff flexible control over the audio system.
IP-1 Controllers: These wall-mounted controllers allow for quick and easy volume control and source selection, designed with non-technical users in mind.
Bluetooth Connectivity: The ballroom was equipped with Bluetooth functionality, allowing staff and guests to pair their devices and play audio effortlessly, perfect for events such as receptions and meetings.
By leveraging our expertise with Allen & Heath products, Mainline Connects ensured that this installation met the highest standards while remaining easy to use for the Broward Center’s staff. The end result was a streamlined and reliable audio system that fit perfectly within the demands of a high-traffic event space.