The Mabel Tainter Theater has replaced a point-source system installed in 2007 with EAW AC6 arrays. Its irregular, angled auditorium had left little gain before feedback for actor microphones and made it difficult to balance stage, orchestra pit and audience coverage.
AC6 uses Resolution software and ADAPTive control to direct energy toward seating while reducing spill onto reflective surfaces. The venue can now make more practical use of area microphones and build a stronger stereo image around the pit. The gain comes from distributing level more deliberately, not simply installing a louder box.
Visual integration was equally demanding. The cabinets use an 80/20 bronze-and-gold Rosco Metallix blend, and a local sign painter reproduced the theater's historic stencil pattern on the grilles. It is a useful reminder that installed loudspeakers are specified as architectural objects as well as acoustic tools.