The A/V equipment at the Cornerstone is located in the Upper Hall and is intended for display of video and other visual aids (e.g. Powerpoint presentations), with sound reinforcement/playback using the sound system, and for providing a “Loop” output for those hard of hearing and using a compatible hearing aid (T-switch).
The visual display equipment comprises three 65” LG TV displays mounted on the walls (2 on the South wall and one on the North wall). A HDMI connection box for standard users is located underneath the Cross on the South Wall, alongside 2x XLR points – which are all carried back to the main A/V racks.
The main aspects of the system (Sound & Video mixers, and additional inputs for both) is located in the top Flight Case – whilst the more bulky items, such as speaker amplifiers & video distribution kits are located in the bottom rack. Please do not attempt to move any of the items! The top rack comprises a Sound Desk (Soundcraft Signature 12 MTK) which has facilities for 8 microphone or Line level inputs, plus 2 stereo Line inputs. (Photo 1) At present, it is set up for 3 radio microphones, these being two belt-pack RODE rode:link headset units, and a handheld Trantec unit. These are battery powered (rechargeable) using either 2xAA cells or 1x9V cell, of which the chargers & batteries are located in the Vestry (accessible via the Church Office). Each unit operates on a separate frequency and has its own receiver (inside the Flight Case).
Link-ups from the patch panel are provided, into Channels 4,5,6,7/8,9/10 on the sound desk. Each link-up is coloured, so you know what is going where! You can patch these into the XLR connections you are using (i.e if you are using XLR 3, which is at the Centre Point – then you can patch into XLR 3 at the patch on the wall).
A sound playback device (e.g. laptop, phone or disc player) can be connected directly using a stereo mini-jack (3.5mm). Cables for this purpose be connected to the Channel 11/12 RCA inputs.
The case has been set up so that the main mixing controls on the desk do NOT go to the internal PA system. This change has been made so as to separate channels needed for a recording mix (input to the ATEM) from channels needed for audio amplification (P.A.) into the hall. This is a similar setup to that used at the Church, where the P.A. system is driven from the Auxiliary 1 bus rather than from the main mixing bus.
The P.A. output from the desk (Aux 1 – mono) goes firstly to a speaker control unit (Behringer DCX2496LE) rack-mounted in the second rack. The outputs from the speaker control unit then go to the main power amplifier (Crown Xli2500) which is connected to the two ceiling-mounted loudspeakers (Martin CCD10) via a cable and plug set terminating at a wall-mounted box in the room corner. This cable should NOT be unplugged from the wall box.
The flight case also contains the Phonic Power Amplifier which has been set up to drive a sub-bass unit comprising 2-off 12” drivers.
The Auxiliary 2 output from the desk provides the mono feed to the Loop Amplifier (Ampetronic) which is also within the flight case. A twisted pair cable terminates at an XLR socket in the wall box, and supplies the Induction Loop which is carried around the hall in the high-level conduit trunking.
In normal use there should be no need to open the front panel of the flight case, and it should NOT be used for storage as this may disturb the radio microphone receivers, and other video equipment.
Each rack has its own power supply – the supply being an 8-socket (with 3 additional 5V USB) extension lead. This is connected into the 2 gang socket on the wall – controlled by the “A/V RACK” switch/spur. This spur should be turned off when not in use.
The main aspects of the Video system consist of the Blackmagic ATEM Mini Pro video switcher. This switcher was purchased back in 2022 for portable livestream use and has now been installed in The Cornerstone as a permanent arrangement to support services that may be hosted there, and further enhance the experience of our systems for stable public usage. The switcher has four inputs, these being:
Power is once again provided by the rack power supply.
An equipment bag, for both Audio & Video equipment is stored in the Vestry, this contains:
• Camera tripod
• Panasonic camera
• 2x RODE Radio Microphone Packs
• Trantec Handheld Radio Microphone
• BPC Lenovo Laptop & power supply
• 20m Fibre HDMI cable (please take care, these are expensive!)
• Spare TV remote control
• Associated connectors you may require
The rechargeable batteries are also stored within the Vestry.
The system (for audio only) has been set up to be switched off and on using a single fused spur on the wall (take care, there are two – you are looking for the one titled “A/V RACK”.) All units are normally left “on” so that all should come on when the spur is switched on. Please remember to turn off the spur when your activity is finished.
The 3 radio microphones are set up on different channels. The microphones comprise two wearer battery/transmitter pack with a small microphone attached to a headset, as well as a hand-held microphone. These are powered variously by AA batteries or 9V rechargeable cells (kept in the Vestry with the kit bag).
Each transmitter is matched to a receiver module at the sound desk, the outputs from these going to the Radio 1, 2 and 3 channels (1,2 and 3) on the desk. The gain controls and Auxiliary 1 controls have been set for these channels and should NOT require any adjustment.
Switch on power to the “A/V RACK” & “A/V Screens” spurs next to the A/V racks. Both racks will power up, and then so will the screens shortly after.
Plug in a HDMI feed for the TVs at the Centre Point HDMI socket (underneath the cross). Your device should be set up automatically to work with this.
The sound system should automatically be set up to work with your input device – however the previous user may have changed settings, and not put them back to normal. Give the sound a quick test, by changing the volume on your device (you should hear a tone). You can also do this by playing some music from YouTube (or your preferred online streaming service.)
Fit batteries into whichever (or all) radio microphones sets, and check their operation.
If required, the Gooseneck microphone should be set up on the stand and connected to one of the XLR sockets next to the HDMI port. You should then remove the top cover to the A/V rack – and patch through the lead for this box (either XLR 3 or 4). Sound check the microphone to ensure that it is functioning correctly, ensuring that it does not cause feedback.
In general, advanced use of the desk will only be undertaken when undertaking live streams of services/events within the hall. The main mixing controls are NOT routed to the sound reinforcement amplifiers and speakers. Control of sound levels in the hall from P.A. microphones and other audio replay devices is undertaken using the relevant Auxiliary 1 controls.
There are 8 input channels to the desk, these being mono microphone/line channels. In addition there is another stereo input channel, which can either be used for the Desk PC, CentrePoint channel or another type of external device.
Microphones:-
We have 3 types of microphone as follows:-
a. Radio microphones (3 off). These comprise a wearer pack with a headset (RODE radio:link), or a hand-held microphone (Trantec), all coupled wirelessly to a receiver. The signal output from these is at normal microphone level and should go into the Line input (Radio 1 or Radio 2) – whilst the Trantec pack is also at normal microphone level, but goes into a Mic input channel instead.
b. Condenser microphones (Gooseneck stand mic). These are plugged into the XLR inputs, but require “phantom” power from the desk. Check that this is enabled (red light on the RHS of the desk).
c. Dynamic microphones. These microphones are stored in the Computer Lab.
Other input devices:-
a. Feed from the Centre-Point HDMI point. This feed is provided via an Audio Extraction device (based within the bottom rack). This requires no adjustments. The RCA head plugs are usually plugged into AUX2, with volume levels set at 12-o-clock for regular users. If you do change these settings for your event, please change them back afterwards to avoid any unwanted confusion!
b. Feeds from a playback system (radio, CD player etc.) can be routed to the 2 RCA plugs (L/R) on the right hand panel of the desk, or to the ¼” L & R TRS jacks on either Channel 9/10 or 11/12.
To set up an input channel, the relevant channel should have its fader set to minimum and the channel set to “PFL”. The gain should be increased until the Main Meters show peak levels of about -6dB when the sound at the input is at a maximum. The red LED on the input channel should not be illuminating – if so, reduce the channel gain control.
Each channel has a number of Equalisation controls which can be used to enhance or reduce High, Medium and Low frequencies. In normal operation these should be set at mid-position (12 o’clock). Each channel also has a “Pan” control which can be used to move the channel signal from the left to the right of the output mix. Unless this “staging” of the channel is required, the control should be at mid-position (12 o’clock).
Once this is complete, un-set the “PFL” switch on the channel. The channel can then be “mixed” into the main mix for loudspeakers by using the relevant Auxiliary 1 control as necessary, to achieve a satisfactory balance of all the channels.
The main faders should be used to control the mix of channels for recording or streaming. This can be monitored using the headphones control and observing the LED level meters.
Once set up as above, it should not be necessary to adjust the individual channel gain, unless the input device (microphone or other) is changed, or the microphone location is changed.
With the Master Faders set to 10, and the headphones control set to a comfortable level, adjust each of the channels in use to achieve the desired balance of sounds. Note that this will vary depending upon what needs to be emphasised or reduced; individual channels can be “muted” if they are causing distraction or are temporarily unwanted – but remember to “un-mute” them when required!
The “mixed” output is directed to the recording/streaming by using the Master Faders; the output level will show on the Main Meters.
The mixes for these channels are INDEPENDENT of the individual channel faders, and are controlled by the Aux1 and Aux2 controls on each channel.
Aux 1 is used only for sound amplification in the hall. It will not normally require adjustment other than for any additional sound sources being introduced. In general, channels used for recording sound from microphones (other than for public address) should have their Auxiliary 1 controls set to MINIMUM.
Aux2 is used for the Loop System, so preference in the mix should be given to speech channels. Ensure that the Loop amplifier does not become overloaded (Red LED will illuminate). Ideally, the input level should be set so that a minimum of 1 and a maximum of 2 green LEDS are showing.
It is strongly recommended that the Aux1 and Aux2 controls per channel are NOT adjusted as they have been set for normal use, and in general are set only to use the “speech” channels.
A feed from the desk output can be taken to a recording device using the multi-track USB socket, which by default is setup to go into the Desk PC. You must have the Soundcraft MultiTrack (ASIO) Driver to use this function (Apple devices already have this driver!) Recommended software is Audacity (open source, does NOT work with Multi-track recordings!) or Reaper (installed & paid for on all Church-owned devices) – freemium software (much more advanced, and does support Multi-track recordings!). MacOS users can also use (if they own) Logic Pro.
This unit has been set up to protect the power amplifier and loudspeakers from excessive loading. It also serves as a “Crossover” between the main speakers (full range) and the Sub-bass speakers. Under normal circumstances there should be no need to make adjustments and a “Global Lock” has accordingly been applied to prevent inadvertent adjustment.
This is in use to drive a sub-bass unit comprising 2-off 12” drivers. For reasons perhaps too difficult to explain, these drivers have different ratings and capabilities; the top driver is a basic “woofer” handling up to 200W at 8 ohms, while the lower unit is an older full-range unit handling up to 15W at 15 ohms. The Behringer control has been set up to divert all frequencies below 100Hz to the sub-bass, with power to the lower unit limited (at -6dB).
This is in use to drive the main PA (public address) speakers – these comprise of two-off Martin Audio CDD10 speakers. The Behringer control has been setup to receive frequencies above 100Hz (below 100Hz goes to the Phonic amplifier instead for subwoofers) – but limit the overall volume level to -6db to protect the speakers.
Our video switcher is the main hub for our Visuals within The Cornerstone. The chosen make & model is Blackmagic Design: ATEM Mini Pro. This model has been chosen as we have experience with the larger model, ATEM Mini Extreme within the Church. It is linked to an OREI UHD14-EXB400-K CAT6 distribution unit – which distributes video signals to a receiver behind each TV screen via CAT6 internet cable. This allows for video to be transmitted instantly, at a much higher refresh rate & quality than before. Power is provided to all four receivers (3x in Upper Hall, 1x in Open Area) from the Transmitter via PoE (Power-over-Ethernet).
There are four input channels on our video switcher (Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini Pro) Three of these inputs (1, 2, 3) are accessible via the patch panel inside the top rack, on the front of the panel. The fourth is permanently set up as our Centre-Point HDMI box (prior to going through the ATEM it is put through an audio extractor device).
To connect to an input channel – you will need 1 HDMI per channel (so 4 in total, if you wish to use the CENTREPOINT).
For cameras at services, the Centre-Point HDMI box can be used for a camera input. You can also use the patch panel directly.
• Flick on the “A/V SCREENS” spur. The screens should come on manually – but if not, take the remote control & point it towards the IR Controller on the front of the bottom rack – labelled!
The video switcher can be used in two ways to move between inputs – CUT, which goes directly to the input in Preview, or AUTO – which fades (or effects) to the next input in Preview.
A solid red indicates that an input is in Program mode – this meaning it is live & displayed to all viewers.
A solid green indicates that an input is in Preview mode – this means that although it isn’t live, it is queued and ready for you to press CUT or AUTO to transfer it into the main input.
To switch between an item in preview – all you have to do is select your preferred input – say I was displaying Input 4, and Input 3 was currently in preview, but I wanted Input 2 to be live. I would press Input 2, and then hit either CUT or AUTO.
Audio is provided to the Visual System via the Mixing Faders on the Soundcraft mixing desk. Make sure the Master is set at an adequate level for livestreaming, and for a link downstairs (if in use).
By default, the PC is set up to work with the two monitors (located at the A/V Rack – difficult to miss!). It is also able to connect to the ATEM (via Input 1 on the Patch Panel – the lead is labelled “DESK PC”).
A keyboard & mouse kit is provided in the rack – the keyboard doesn’t fit on the shelf which makes it a bit awkward to type with – however the mouse does, and you can balance the keyboard on the sound desk.
A registered BPC user can log in with their Church Microsoft account, using a Username & password – however a guest user may not have this. Therefore, a guest user facility has been set up – please note that the account is temporary & therefore files are wiped once you log off/shut down the machine.
Once logged in – you may wish to bring up the ATEM MultiView – this shows all inputs, your program/preview settings & the status of a livestream. This can be done via the OBS Studio software.
Open the software, and under the “Sources” section, hit the plus icon – and scroll down to “Video Capture Device”. Double click on it, and a pop-up will be displayed, change the input to “Blackmagic Design”. Once changed, the Multiview should be displayed. You can make this full screen if you wish.
The other monitor can be used for PowerPoint presenter view, YouTube studio view, whatever your preference may be!
The ATEM unit allows you to livestream directly from The Upper Hall to YouTube. To start, schedule a stream via the Church YouTube Studio channel – instructions for this can be found here (under IT Committee/Audio Visual/Instructions/Church/Set-up YouTube Stream).
Once scheduled, hit the “ON AIR” button on the ATEM Mini Pro. This will establish a connection with YouTube and then allow you to confirm your choice via the YouTube Studio panel of your scheduled stream. When you are ready to start the stream, check your audio levels on the mixing desk – (change as you wish throughout the whole stream) then hit GO LIVE. This will send a notification to all BPC Subscribers, indicating we are live on YouTube.
To stop the livestream, hit STOP STREAM from YouTube Studio, then the STOP button on the ATEM Mini Pro.
• If the ON AIR light flashes, an internet connection could not be established between the ATEM Mini Pro and our local internet connection. Check that the PC has an internet connection (the ATEM Mini Pro & PC are fed from the same switch in the bottom rack). If the PC has a connection, make sure all ethernet cables are plugged in at the bottom rack – and also check the ethernet cable in the back of the ATEM.
o You can also try and see the internet connection settings via the “ATEM Setup” application. Make sure the ATEM has been assigned a local IP address, and that DNS settings are set to 8.8.8.8 as preferred, and 8.8.4.4 as alternative.
• If the cache fills up, check that the PC has an internet connection. If not – then the internet in the hall has gone down. Nothing much can be done about this…! Also check that you are not performing a mass upload to OneDrive, or Google Drive at this time – although this problem tends to be more at the Church (where there is limited upload bandwidth) than at The Cornerstone.
A link has been provided from the Upper Hall to the Downstairs Open Area (similar to the link installed in The Church.) This is useful when the Sunday Kidz are based in the downstairs hall, along with the Creche – allowing parents of attendees, guests, and other volunteers to still join in with the service.
The link is always activated, as long as the upper hall system is on. To gain access to the link, turn on the TV screen in the Open Area (along with the speakers), take it out of standby using the remote control – then change the source to HDMI 2.
• If you are not getting a signal, make sure the source is set as HDMI 2. Then, check the lights on the HDBT receiver unit (left hand side, back of the TV screen). These should be solid green, and flashing/solid orange (more likely to be flashing orange). If these lights aren’t on – make sure the upstairs racks are switched on.
At least once monthly, the following list should be completed. This isn't logged and is more to ensure that the system is working as anticipated.
Once completed the system can be turned off as normal.
Any faults (or issues) should be sent to [email protected] via E-mail ASAP.
August 2022 – added details of flight case security and operation of ProSound radio mics (Appendix 1). Also added details of setup for running Zoom meetings through the system (Appendix 2)
December 2022 – substantial re-write to take account of change of power amplifier routing.
September 2023 – replacement of EPM8 desk with Signature 12MTK desk.
January 2025 – Upgrade of Visual systems, plus replacement of CDD10 speaker (LEFT) and removal of older EV speaker (old Back Right). Removal of any mentions of ProSound unit, Sennheiser & replacement of new Radio Microphones. Installation of link downstairs. Overall – a complete refurbishment of the Cornerstone A/V system.
June 2025 - Merge into Wiki.
For more information on the system, or for technical support, contact the IT Committee via [email protected]