Custer Road United Methodist Church (Custer Road UMC) in Plano, Texas, faced a familiar challenge for many worship spaces: its high ceilings and traditional architecture created audio issues that hindered the congregation’s ability to fully engage. As part of a major renovation, church leadership sought to upgrade its audio system to deliver clear, consistent sound that matched the sanctuary’s refreshed look.
“The church underwent a major renovation, and part of that effort was to ensure the technical systems were up to date,” says Shawn Slocum, Account Manager at Electro Acoustics. “We knew it was time to improve the audio system, and EAW’s AC6 ADAPTive system was the perfect solution.”
Custer Road UMC discovered the capabilities of the AC6 Column Loudspeaker during a demonstration in the sanctuary led by Clayton Mills, Sales Manager at Highway Marketing. “We needed a space for an AC6 training session, and the church graciously offered its sanctuary,” shares Mills. “It turned out to be the perfect setting. After hearing the AC6 system in action, the church immediately knew it was the right fit for them.” Jim Carter, Director of A/V and Computer Services at Custer Road UMC, added, “The demonstration from Highway Marketing was all that it took from my end to know that we had found a solution to our problem.”
To meet the church’s specific needs, Electro Acoustics collaborated with Highway Marketing and EAW to design and install a tailored audio solution. The system included triple-stacked AC6 speakers on either side of the sanctuary, MKD526 loudspeakers for under-balcony fills, and SB828P subwoofers for enhanced low-end sound. The design not only addressed acoustical challenges but also blended seamlessly with the sanctuary’s aesthetics. “One of the final touches that really impressed the church was the ability to custom paint the speakers to match the sanctuary’s new color scheme,” adds Mills. “It was a small detail, but it added to the overall experience and integration.”
EAW’s Resolution software powered the AC6 system’s adaptive technology, enabling precise tuning and even sound distribution throughout the space. The system effectively overcame challenges posed by the sanctuary’s 43-foot-high ceilings and wraparound balcony. “The new EAW AC6 system has drastically improved the church’s audio quality. It brings the sound closer to the congregation, making it feel more intimate. The ADAPTive technology ensures that every seat in the sanctuary receives clear and consistent audio, which is a huge win for the church.”
Since the installation, the church has reported significant improvements in microphone gain before feedback and enhanced clarity for both spoken word and musical performances. “The renovation has been very successful in increasing the intelligibility of the spoken word in the room,” shares Carter. “With the positive feedback we continue to receive from the congregation and staff members, we have been able to accomplish our goals. Many thanks to EAW, as its products gave us the opportunity to have that success and take us into the future at Custer Road UMC.”
With EAW’s AC6 ADAPTive Loudspeakers, Custer Road UMC has transformed its sanctuary into a space where traditional architecture and cutting-edge audio technology work in harmony. The updated system ensures an immersive worship experience, allowing every attendee to fully engage in services.
