The sound system was part of a major overhaul that included building a new 2,200-seat auditorium with sound clarity for spoken word, choral and high-energy electric guitar music. Pro Sound's Kelly Prince and Craig Compton handled the design of the sound reinforcement system, which blends seamlessly with the auditorium's acoustics. At his first hearing of the completed system, Lead Pastor Steve Poe gave his stamp of approval: "There's not one bad seat in the house."

Two stacks of dual 700-HP subwoofers are arranged in front of the stage in cardioid formation. Five UPM-1P loudspeakers provide frontfills, in addition to a set of five UPM-1P loudspeakers each serving the two balconies, and a third set for those under the lower balcony. Twelve UPJ-1P VariO loudspeakers complete a surround system.

Other AV tools available for Northview's services include a Digidesign D-Show Profile mixing console, Christie HD projectors, and a Ross Vision switcher. "The sound is phenomenal," reports Pongratz. "Everyone who heard it was pleased." In addition to Pongratz, the audio install committee also included Mark Schaefer, system director and Jason Chapman, video projects coordinator.

During the installation, Northview Church was pre-wired for the future integration of a Meyer Sound Constellation acoustic system. After experiencing the system at Grace Community Church in Noblesville and Cirque du Soleil® productions in Las Vegas, Northview's technical team and pastor were convinced that Constellation would allow them to fully support their contemporary worship needs. "With Constellation, our hands aren't tied so we can be as creative as we can in our services," says Pongratz.