St. John’s Anglican Church in Launceston, Tasmania, the city’s oldest church, recently marked its 200th anniversary with a significant upgrade aimed at enhancing speech intelligibility. Founded in 1824, this heritage-listed building faced numerous acoustic challenges, prompting the church committee to commission Guz Box design + audio for an overhaul of its audio systems.
The project, initially conceived in 2020, encountered delays due to Covid-19 restrictions and a lack of comprehensive data. It wasn’t until March 2021 that Tim Kuschel, founder of Guz Box, fully grasped the architectural constraints of the historic structure. The 22-meter-high dome, a defining feature of the church, presented particular acoustic challenges, with multiple sound reflections complicating the audio environment.
Addressing the Needs of an Elderly Congregation
A primary concern driving the upgrade was the need for improved speech intelligibility. Many of St. John’s congregants are elderly, and the existing speaker system, a patchwork of incompatible enclosures, failed to deliver clear audio. The church also hosts contemporary music services and orchestral recitals, necessitating a versatile audio solution.
After a thorough evaluation, Kuschel opted for Martin Audio’s O-Line modular micro-array setup. This system, known for its compact form and scalability, was deemed ideal for the church’s requirements. “This offered the most consistent results across the seating areas,” Kuschel explained, highlighting O-Line’s suitability for environments where speech clarity is paramount.
Technical Innovations and Collaborative Efforts
The design process involved extensive acoustic measurements using EASE software to ensure focused loudspeaker energy on the main seating areas. Kuschel developed a virtual acoustic model, correlating physical measurements to achieve a desired Speech Transmission Index (STI) and other key parameters. Collaboration with Cumulus Studio led to an acoustic treatment program, including ceiling absorbers and wall treatments.
Working with Martin Audio distributor Technical Audio Group (TAG), the team installed two hangs of 16 Martin Audio O-Line elements. To accommodate music reproduction, six Martin Audio SX110 subwoofers were strategically placed under the main platform, each individually amplified and processed for optimal sound steering.
Enhancing Aesthetics and Heritage Preservation
Beyond functionality, the project also prioritized aesthetics. The O-Line elements and other speakers were installed in standard finishes, with all fixings and cable conduits color-matched to meet heritage requirements. The installation was executed by Tasmania-based Contact Group, with project management by Joel Taylor of T-Built, ensuring seamless coordination among contractors and systems integrators.
Implications and Future Prospects
The successful audio upgrade at St. John’s Anglican Church not only enhances the worship experience for its congregation but also sets a precedent for integrating modern technology within heritage sites. As houses of worship continue to balance tradition with contemporary needs, this project exemplifies how thoughtful design and collaboration can overcome architectural challenges.
Looking ahead, the church’s enhanced audio capabilities may attract a wider audience, supporting its mission to serve both its traditional congregation and a younger, music-oriented demographic. The project underscores the potential for similar renovations in other historic buildings facing the dual demands of preservation and modernization.
