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Griffith Observatory’s Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon Theater equipped with Renkus-Heinz Iconyx

High in the Hollywood hills, the Griffith Observatory overlooks the city of Los Angeles as an emblem of cinematic history and scientific discovery. The Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon Theater, one of the building’s venues, is a 190-seat auditorium hosting public programs, presentations, and panels every day to explore the latest in science and astronomy.

However, the existing sound system was becoming increasingly difficult to manage. All too often, events were being disrupted by unpleasant microphone feedback caused by reflections off the projection screen and paneled walls. In need of a new audio solution to address the specific requirements of the theater, The Griffith Observatory Foundation called upon audiovisual technology specialist Solotech and consultant TheatreDNA, who recommended Renkus-Heinz as the ideal loudspeaker solution for the space.

“From the beginning, we recognized the need for a solution that could address the unwanted reflections and uncontrolled audio challenges, without disrupting the theater’s strict aesthetic values”, says Patrick So, Theater Programs Manager at Griffith Observatory. “We worked closely 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”, explains Marc Nutter, Business Development Representative for Solotech. 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 Griffith Observatory Foundation was deeply involved throughout the entire 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 theater”, 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 AV system is built around a QSC network that brings audio, video, and control into a streamlined interface.

(Photos: Renkus-Heinz)

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