Prestonwood Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas, has expanded its communications infrastructure by upgrading from a stand-alone Bolero wireless intercom system to a full suite of Riedel technologies.
The new setup integrates an Artist-1024 matrix and additional SmartPanels, along with more Bolero beltpacks and antennas. The church has also implemented a complete MediorNet video distribution system that includes MicroN, Compact, and Modular units, which serve as video, audio, and network gateways. This installation, designed and deployed in collaboration with Broadcast Technical Services (BTS), has improved connectivity between Prestonwood’s two campuses, which are 27 miles apart.
System Benefits and Functionality
The Director of Media at Prestonwood, Bryan Bailey, noted that Bolero’s capabilities initially attracted them to Riedel’s products. The wireless intercom has enhanced the production team’s communication, with features like remote keys, GPIO, individual headset settings, and Bluetooth optimizing the system for Prestonwood’s needs. The church’s domed structure and elevated location posed wireless transmission challenges that the Bolero system effectively addressed.
Media Operations Director Armando Escobedo highlighted the expanded flexibility that the addition of Artist, SmartPanel, and MediorNet systems has brought to their workflows, particularly in audio, video, lighting, and stage management. MediorNet supports real-time signal distribution for live events, connecting the church’s two campuses and facilitating feed distribution to other ministry buildings.
Real-Time Signal Distribution and Enhanced Capabilities
The Prestonwood engineering team initially selected MediorNet for video distribution, later recognizing it could support audio and communications signals as well. MediorNet’s ability to manage various signal types over a single dark fiber connection has enabled new routing and signal management options, expanding Prestonwood’s production capabilities.
Future Developments
Ben Gabrielson, Riedel Communications’ Regional Sales Manager for the South Central region, expressed that Prestonwood’s success with Riedel’s systems is in line with Riedel’s mission to support effective communication for houses of worship and other live event settings.
Project Management and Installation
The system was developed with input from Ryan Sartell, consulting engineer, and Will Schaefer, engineer in charge, supported by Riedel’s system consultant services. BTS facilitated the deployment and integration, with Sartell and Schaefer managing on-site commissioning.
This deployment marks a significant enhancement in Prestonwood’s communication and signal distribution infrastructure, providing robust support for the church’s multimedia production needs.
About Riedel Communications
Riedel Communications, founded in 1987 in Wuppertal, Germany, is a leading provider of real-time networks for video, audio, and communications. The company specializes in products for broadcast, pro-audio, event, sports, theater, and security applications worldwide. Riedel’s innovations include digital audio matrix systems, fiber-based media networks, and the Bolero wireless intercom system.
