Renkus-Heinz ICONYX at Griffith Observatory's Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon Theater

	"The beam steering capabilities allow for precise vertical coverage control, directing sound towards the audience while reducing energy on the reflective surfaces," says Nutter.

High in the Hollywood hills, the Griffith Observatory overlooks the city of Los Angeles as an emblem of cinematic history and scientific discovery. A world-class educational and entertainment landmark, the observatory is known for its appearances in classic films and its long-standing role in bringing astronomy closer to the public. The Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon Theater is a 190-seat auditorium hosting public programs, presentations, and panels every day to explore the latest in science and astronomy.

The theatre's existing sound system was becoming increasingly difficult to manage. Reflections off the projection screen and paneled walls caused unpleasant microphone feedback. The Griffith Observatory Foundation called on audiovisual technology specialist Solotech and consultant TheatreDNA, who recommended Renkus-Heinz as the ideal loudspeaker solution for the space.

"The Griffith Observatory is such an iconic and recognizable landmark," says Marc Nutter, business development representative for Solotech. "The existing sound system in the theatre was no longer meeting the expectations of such a prestigious venue. A modern system was required that was capable of delivering high-quality audio performance while ensuring usability for staff with limited technical training."

"From the beginning, we recognized the need for a solution that could address the unwanted reflections and uncontrolled audio challenges, without disrupting the theatre's strict aesthetic values," adds Patrick So, theatre 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," Nutter explains. While the theatre retained a dedicated playback system for film screenings, the IC16-RD was introduced exclusively for spoken word events. "The beam steering capabilities allow for precise vertical coverage control, directing sound towards the audience while reducing energy on the reflective surfaces, ultimately helping to improve speech intelligibility and maintain consistent SPL from the front of the auditorium to the back."

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, allowing museum staff to prepare and operate daily programs and special events with greater ease and consistency.

Since the debut of the new audio system, the audience experience inside the theatre has improved noticeably. "The upgrade from the old system was immediately clear," So reveals. "With the IC16-RD, there's no more feedback when presenters speak into the microphones and the entire audience can hear even the most subtle details. The immense effort that everyone has put in has led to a far more immersive and engaging experience that fully lives up to the expectations of the Griffith Observatory."