Opelika, Alabama – The city of Opelika, founded in 1854 and home to over 30,000 people, recently upgraded its downtown shopping district with a wide-area audio system from Technomad. This American company specializes in ultra-reliable outdoor loudspeakers and weatherproof amplifiers.
Using the city’s existing municipal WiFi network, the project connects audio from three locations across the district to 45 light poles. Each pole features a Technomad PowerChitonMicro amplifier, configured with optional streaming receiver and wireless access point, and two Vernal loudspeakers. Equipped with a horn-loaded compression driver and best in class 5” bass drive, the Vernal speakers project audio clearly across a wide area from a very compact footprint. Each PowerChiton micro delivers up to 200W into 4Ω, providing ample power to drive the Vernal speakers to their full potential. The main control point is a 4U rack at City Hall, equipped with an audio mixer with zone capability and the primary streaming sources.
The project also includes two BreakoutBox XL interface boxes at ‘in-the field’ locations, enhancing the system’s flexibility: operators can connect to the system using these weatherproof inputs and play audio for local events (in a park or on a street) independently of city-wide broadcasts. Each BreakoutBox XL incorporates a four input audio mixer, providing one balanced line level /mic input and three unbalanced line level inputs, all with a dedicated level control. The BreakoutBox XL has three expansion bays for use with source options such as wireless microphone or Bluetooth™ receivers or distribution options such as streaming receivers or senders. In the case of the Opelika install, a streaming sender was integrated into each BreakoutBox XL. These streaming sender units are programmed to only the local amplifiers for targeted audio output while the sources in City Hall target all amplifiers. The City Hall source rack can also selectively target specific districts of the downtown area through the use of a zone mixer and dedicated streaming senders.
Installation was performed by Auburn AV, a Technomad reseller with long experience implementing solutions for challenging environments, such as an aquatics complex in Tallulah Falls, GA, sports complexes, houses of worship, corporate AV solutions and much more.
This audio system upgrade is part of Opelika’s effort to modernize its public spaces while maintaining its historical character. It aims to improve the downtown atmosphere, provide clear public announcements, and support local events, including the annual Christmas Parade. The city ordered the system in September 2022 to ensure it was ready for the November event.
This project showcases Opelika’s commitment to technological advancement and community engagement and leverages Technomad’s expertise in delivering high-quality audio solutions for public spaces. “There’s a great fit between the emerging trend for cities to add downtown music and paging capabilities and our long history of supplying simple-to-use ruggedized audio solutions to theme park, government, and entertainment customers”, says Rodger von Kries, Technomad VP.
This audio system upgrade is part of Opelika’s effort to modernize its public spaces while maintaining its historical character. It aims to improve the downtown atmosphere, provide clear public announcements, and support local events, including the annual Christmas Parade. The city ordered the system in September 2022 to ensure it was ready for the November event.
About Technomad Technomad LLC, established in 1995, manufactures weatherproof outdoor loudspeakers and amplifiers in the United States at their Massachusetts factory. The company is known for its innovative design and American craftsmanship, serving various sectors, including public spaces, commercial venues, and military applications.
About Opelika Opelika, Alabama, with a rich history dating back to 1854, is committed to community development and preserving its historical essence. The city combines modern advancements with traditional Southern heritage, offering a unique environment for both residents and visitors.
- Opelika AL City Website
- Technomad Town-Audio Systems Page
- Technomad Venal Loudspeaker Page
- Technomad PowerChiton Amplifier Page
- Auburn AV Website
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