Project Highlight: Cardel Homes Theatre Modernization
From Emergency Service Call to Full Theatre Transformation
What started as a troubleshooting request for a failing legacy AV system evolved into a complete modernization project for Cardel Homes. Their headquarters in Calgary had a multipurpose theatre that was used for corporate events, presentations, community functions, and live performances. However, after more than a decade of use, its aging AV infrastructure had become unreliable and difficult to maintain.
Evolution AV was initially brought in to stabilize the existing system, but through extensive troubleshooting, it became clear that a strategic upgrade was the better option. New equipment would provide long-term reliability without needing a complete theatre rebuild.
The Challenge:
Aging Infrastructure Was Creating Major Reliability Issues
The theatre’s outdated system was creating ongoing challenges for staff and renters. Laptops had issues connecting to the speakers, projectors were not displaying content, microphones were non-functional, and amplifiers were deteriorating. Consistent operational failings significantly impacted the reliability of the space.
Little to no documentation or manuals for the aging equipment made on-the-spot troubleshooting virtually impossible for users. The theatre regularly required ad hoc technical support just to keep events running smoothly, and the unpredictability of the system created added stress during live presentations and public functions. What began as isolated technical problems had evolved into a larger issue affecting the overall usability of the space.
The Approach:
Stabilize First, Then Build a Long-Term Plan
The Solution:
Modernizing the Backend Without Replacing Everything
Since the project was originally a service call, our technicians first focused on extensive troubleshooting to find the underlying issues and repair the system. This involved identifying existing system pathways, rewiring amplifier inputs to restore proper audio distribution, and moving speaker lines to functional amplifier channels. Multiple microphone issues were resolved, and cabling infrastructure was tested, documented, and organized to improve future serviceability.
However, through this process, Cardel realized the extent of the aging infrastructure issues. Rather than paying for continuous repairs and workarounds to prolong the inevitable, they asked us to design and install a new, modern system.
Instead of replacing the entire theatre, our design team developed a strategic modernization plan that focused on maximizing performance while minimizing unnecessary costs.
Existing speakers, projectors, and projector screens were retained and integrated into a completely upgraded backend system. This allowed the client to modernize the theatre experience without the expense of replacing equipment that was still functional.
New system upgrades included:
Q-SYS DSP and audio processing infrastructure
Crestron control system with touchscreen and wireless tablet control
New networked power amplifiers
New wireless microphone systems
Modernized video distribution using Crestron NVX AV-over-IP technology
Enhanced surround sound processing
Simplified user control and routing functionality
Before:
After:
The Result:
A More Reliable and User-Friendly Theatre Experience
The upgraded system dramatically improved the overall reliability, usability, and performance of the theatre’s AV system. Audio quality and clarity were significantly enhanced throughout the space, and the new control system made it easier to use for staff and guests alike. Having new, modern technology improved the flexibility of the space, making it easier to support all types of events, from corporate presentations to live performances.
Beyond the immediate performance improvements, the new system was designed with longevity in mind. By identifying which infrastructure could still provide long-term value, we were able to focus on the highest impact upgrades while avoiding unnecessary costs. Instead of a full rip-and-replace approach, the result was a smarter, more strategic modernization that balanced performance, reliability, and budget.
Our ability to step into complex environments, troubleshoot critical failures, and strategically transform aging AV systems into reliable, high-quality spaces is what makes us a reliable partner. Cardel Homes now has a dependable theatre capable of delivering a far more professional and consistent user experience for years to come.
Looking for a strategic update that doesn’t break the bank? We’ll work with your budget and requirements to create a space that just works.
