In this episode of The SOUND Project, Gavin sits down with AJ Fager, founder of Force Tech, to talk about leading the complete audio, video, and lighting upgrade at the Palladium in Carmel, Indiana. From testing slip rings to moving from active to passive systems, AJ shares the problem-solving, planning, and teamwork it took to modernize one of the region’s premier performance venues. They also discuss Force Tech’s growth from a small church sound gig to a 60+ person integration company working on projects from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway to major municipal facilities.Video By: More Than Media - www.morethan.mediaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/morethan.media/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morethan.mediaYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MoreThanMedia_The S.O.U.N.D. Project Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sound-project/id1680525959Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6dkk1s642VFjZGsdYGyxBPGoogle: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9kZTBiZGNlOC9wb2RjYXN0L3JzcwFull episodes playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLghfvh2wd7A9MnVKr44jtPEg0qcZ1esTFKeep up with us on our Socials:- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@haverstickdesigns- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haverstickdesigns/- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HaverstickDesigns- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@haverstickdesigns- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/haverstick-designs/- Linktree: https://linktr.ee/haverstickdesigns- Website: https://www.haverstickdesigns.com/#TheSOUNDProject #ForceTech #AVIntegration #PalladiumCarmel #ProAudio #AudioUpgrade #VenueUpgrade #HaverstickDesigns #TheaterAV #AudioEngineering📍 Timestamps:00:00 – Intro: Meet AJ Fager from Force Tech01:00 – Starting in audio at six years old02:00 – Choosing tech over music03:00 – The naivety that fuels starting a business04:00 – Why Force Tech blends tech with construction skills06:00 – Hiring problem-solvers first07:00 – From broadcast integration to AV, scaling up and down10:10 – The Palladium project: challenges and solutions12:40 – Moving from active to passive systems14:00 – Testing slip rings for audio15:40 – Why the city of Carmel made the right call waiting for the right gear16:00 – Other major projects: IMS, event centers, municipalities18:00 – Growing pains: stepping back from the field19:00 – Developing talent organically21:00 – Growing horizontally and vertically, adding IT services21:40 – How integrators became network experts22:00 – Closing thoughts and future outlook

In this episode of The SOUND Project, Gavin sits down with AJ Fager, founder of Force Tech, to talk about leading the complete audio, video, and lighting upgrade at the Palladium in Carmel, Indiana. From testing slip rings to moving from active to passive systems, AJ shares the problem-solving, planning, and teamwork it took to modernize one of the region’s premier performance venues. They also discuss Force Tech’s growth from a small church sound gig to a 60+ person integration company working on projects from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway to major municipal facilities.Video By: More Than Media - www.morethan.mediaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/morethan.media/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morethan.mediaYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@morethanmedia_The S.O.U.N.D. Project Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sound-project/id1680525959Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6dkk1s642VFjZGsdYGyxBPGoogle: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9kZTBiZGNlOC9wb2RjYXN0L3JzcwFull episodes playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLghfvh2wd7A9MnVKr44jtPEg0qcZ1esTFKeep up with us on our Socials:- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@haverstickdesigns- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haverstickdesigns/- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HaverstickDesigns- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@haverstickdesigns- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/haverstick-designs/- Linktree: https://linktr.ee/haverstickdesigns- Website: https://www.haverstickdesigns.com/#TheSOUNDProject #ForceTech #AVIntegration #PalladiumCarmel #ProAudio #AudioUpgrade #VenueUpgrade #HaverstickDesigns #TheaterAV #AudioEngineering📍 Timestamps:00:00 – Intro: Meet AJ Fager from Force Tech01:00 – Starting in audio at six years old02:00 – Choosing tech over music03:00 – The naivety that fuels starting a business04:00 – Why Force Tech blends tech with construction skills06:00 – Hiring problem-solvers first07:00 – From broadcast integration to AV, scaling up and down10:10 – The Palladium project: challenges and solutions12:40 – Moving from active to passive systems14:00 – Testing slip rings for audio15:40 – Why the city of Carmel made the right call waiting for the right gear16:00 – Other major projects: IMS, event centers, municipalities18:00 – Growing pains: stepping back from the field19:00 – Developing talent organically21:00 – Growing horizontally and vertically, adding IT services21:40 – How integrators became network experts22:00 – Closing thoughts and future outlook

In this episode, Gavin kicks off a new series on acoustical terminology by breaking down STC (Sound Transmission Class). Learn what STC really means, how it’s used in the industry, and why it doesn’t always tell the full story. Whether you're an architect, contractor, or just acoustics-curious, this episode will help you better understand how sound blocking works (and where STC falls short).

Video By: More Than Media - www.morethan.media

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/morethan.media/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morethan.media

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@morethanmedia_

The S.O.U.N.D. Project Podcast:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sound-project/id1680525959

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6dkk1s642VFjZGsdYGyxBP

Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9kZTBiZGNlOC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw

Full episodes playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLghfvh2wd7A9MnVKr44jtPEg0qcZ1esTF

Keep up with us on our Socials:

- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@haverstickdesigns

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haverstickdesigns/

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HaverstickDesigns

- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@haverstickdesigns

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/haverstick-designs/

- Linktree: https://linktr.ee/haverstickdesigns

- Website: https://www.haverstickdesigns.com/

00:00 – Welcome to The Sound Project

00:00 – Intro: Welcome to The Sound Project

00:08 – Launching the New Acoustics Series

00:13 – What Is Sound Transmission Class (STC)?

00:25 – How STC Measures Sound Blocking

00:42 – Why STC Can Be Misleading

01:19 – STC Rating Levels Explained (25 to 65+)

03:16 – How STC Is Measured (Lab vs. Field)

05:54 – Interpreting STC Charts & Deficiencies

06:22 – Real-World Examples: Doors, Drywall, Vinyl, Concrete

08:14 – STC’s Limitations: Low Frequencies & Impact Noise

10:13 – Flanking Paths and Field Testing (ASTM E336)

11:17 – Comparing Wall Types: Concrete vs. Steel Stud

12:45 – Using the Sound Isolation Simulator Tool

15:14 – Summary: When & How to Use STC Effectively

16:18 – Final Thoughts & Viewer Q&A Invitation

In this episode of The SOUND Project, Gavin sits down with worship pastor Drew McElhenney at Grand Rapids First to share the powerful story behind Studio33:3. What began as a dream in memory of Sarah turned into a multi-year, community-backed project to build a state-of-the-art recording studio dedicated to worship and the next generation of Christian artists. From early basement recordings to Atmos mixes and Sunday broadcasts, Drew shares the process, the people, and the purpose behind the space.Video By: More Than Media - www.morethan.mediaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/morethan.media/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morethan.mediaYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@morethanmedia_The S.O.U.N.D. Project Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sound-project/id1680525959Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6dkk1s642VFjZGsdYGyxBPGoogle: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9kZTBiZGNlOC9wb2RjYXN0L3JzcwFull episodes playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLghfvh2wd7A9MnVKr44jtPEg0qcZ1esTFKeep up with us on our Socials:- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@haverstickdesigns- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haverstickdesigns/- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HaverstickDesigns- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@haverstickdesigns- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/haverstick-designs/- Linktree: https://linktr.ee/haverstickdesigns- Website: https://www.haverstickdesigns.com/#TheSOUNDProject #Studio333 #WorshipMusic #ChristianStudio #RecordingStudio #ChurchMedia #StudioDesign #AudioEngineering #ProAudio #HaverstickDesigns00:00 – Intro: Meet Drew McEleney at Studio 33:301:00 – Early music and worship leadership02:30 – Connecting with Sarah and youth worship04:00 – First recordings and learning the studio process05:00 – Building the new studio after Sarah’s passing06:30 – Why the project needed the right people08:00 – Collaboration with Gavin and Vintage King10:00 – Designing a space with purpose, not ego12:30 – Studio goals: access, affordability, and mission14:30 – Grand opening and early community response16:00 – Inspiring the next generation through creative spaces18:00 – Doing it right—no shortcuts on vision20:00 – Navigating permits, build challenges, and faith22:00 – A full-circle story and future of Studio 33:323:00 – Final thoughts and what’s next

In this episode of The SOUND Project, Gavin sits down with Nick Mac from Electric Feel to break down what goes into designing clean, flexible, future-proof studios. From custom cable manufacturing to control room orientation and patch bay planning, Nick shares what he’s learned over a decade of wiring complex, high-performance recording environments.Video By: More Than Media - www.morethan.mediaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/morethan.media/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morethan.mediaYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@morethanmedia_The S.O.U.N.D. Project Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sound-project/id1680525959Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6dkk1s642VFjZGsdYGyxBPGoogle: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9kZTBiZGNlOC9wb2RjYXN0L3JzcwFull episodes playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLghfvh2wd7A9MnVKr44jtPEg0qcZ1esTFKeep up with us on our Socials:- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@haverstickdesigns- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haverstickdesigns/- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HaverstickDesigns- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@haverstickdesigns- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/haverstick-designs/- Linktree: https://linktr.ee/haverstickdesigns- Website: https://www.haverstickdesigns.com/#TheSOUNDProject #electricfeel #StudioWiring #StudioIntegration #PatchBay #RecordingStudio #AudioEngineering #CleanInstalls #StudioBuild #HaverstickDesigns00:00 – Intro: Meet Nick from Electric Feel01:00 – DIY beginnings and building from nothing02:00 – Wiring Electric Feel and designing for real workflows04:00 – Visual planning and custom cabling06:00 – Clean cable management and future-proofing08:00 – Common install challenges and lessons learned10:00 – Making it work with offsite builds and reusing cables12:00 – Patch bay flexibility and underused tools (Thailand panels!)14:00 – Working with other creatives and learning from past builds16:00 – Studio builds, gear choices, and balancing form + function18:00 – Why reputation and stewardship matter more than the sale20:00 – Growing as a tech and helping others succeed22:00 – Not everything’s on YouTube—learn by doing23:00 – Failing forward, staying curious, and wiring better every time

In this episode of The SOUND Project, Gavin sits down with longtime collaborator Matt Call, founder of Simplified Acoustics. They talk through the realities of building acoustically treated spaces and Matt shares his approach to problem-solving in the field, what makes studio installs different from theaters or churches, and why lighting, construction, and treatment all need to work together.

In this episode of The SOUND Project, Gavin sits down with Josh Nyback, a lifelong musician turned studio builder, who’s made a name for himself designing and constructing high-performance, custom acoustic spaces. He shares his evolution from band practice rooms padded with mattresses to building complex, fully isolated recording studios.The conversation dives into how his musical background shaped his approach to construction, how becoming a father influenced his business path, and why collaboration with clients and engineers is key. With stories of trial and error, learning by doing, and a deep respect for the science behind acoustics, Josh offers valuable insights into what it really takes to build studios that sound and feel right.Video By: More Than Media - www.morethan.mediaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/morethan.media/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morethan.mediaYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@morethanmedia_The S.O.U.N.D. Project Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sound-project/id1680525959Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6dkk1s642VFjZGsdYGyxBPGoogle: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9kZTBiZGNlOC9wb2RjYXN0L3JzcwFull episodes playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLghfvh2wd7A9MnVKr44jtPEg0qcZ1esTFKeep up with us on our Socials:- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@haverstickdesigns- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haverstickdesigns/- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HaverstickDesigns- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@haverstickdesigns- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/haverstick-designs/- Linktree: https://linktr.ee/haverstickdesigns- Website: https://www.haverstickdesigns.com/#TheSOUNDProject #StudioBuild #AcousticDesign #ProAudio #StudioConstruction #MusicToConstruction #HaverstickDesigns #CustomStudios #RecordingStudioDesign #soundproofing 00:00 – Intro00:11 – Meet Josh Nyback01:06 – From musicians to studio builders01:44 – Custom treatment vs. DIY solutions03:00 – Designing for sound, function, and aesthetics07:00 – Studio challenges and lessons learned08:38 – Why studios fail (and how to fix it)11:09 – Collaboration with engineers and architects12:30 – Final thoughts and gratitude

In this episode of The SOUND Project, Gavin sits down with Jason Carson—former chief tech and VP of operations at Record Plant. Jason shares his path from runner to studio integration expert, what it was like designing Chip Freeman's studio, and advice for those looking to break into the audio world. From wiring diagrams to teaching young engineers, Jason’s seen it all.Video By: More Than Media - www.morethan.mediaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/morethan.media/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morethan.mediaYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@morethanmedia_The S.O.U.N.D. Project Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sound-project/id1680525959Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6dkk1s642VFjZGsdYGyxBPGoogle: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9kZTBiZGNlOC9wb2RjYXN0L3JzcwFull episodes playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLghfvh2wd7A9MnVKr44jtPEg0qcZ1esTFKeep up with us on our Socials:- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@haverstickdesigns- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haverstickdesigns/- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HaverstickDesigns- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@haverstickdesigns- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/haverstick-designs/- Linktree: https://linktr.ee/haverstickdesigns- Website: https://www.haverstickdesigns.com/#TheSOUNDProject #StudioIntegration #RecordPlant #Studio333 #AudioEngineering #RecordingStudio #ProAudio #StudioBuild #haverstickdesigns 00:00 – Intro00:20 – Meet Jason Carson01:00 – Breaking into audio through Chip Freeman02:00 – Starting at Record Plant and moving into tech03:00 – Becoming chief tech and VP of operations04:30 – Freelance work and studio integration05:30 – Building Studio 333 with Chip07:00 – Remote integration, wiring plans, and team collaboration08:30 – Tech Awards and Jason’s 2007 win10:00 – Lessons from Record Plant projects11:00 – Advice for studio runners and newcomers12:00 – Berklee, LA life, and balancing family13:30 – Planning personal recording projects14:30 – Biggest challenges in integration15:30 – Full circle: revisiting Studio 333 for future recording16:10 – Final thoughts and gratitude

What’s really happening at the boundary between your speakers and the surface they sit on?In this episode of The SOUND Project, Gavin talks with Dave Morrison from IsoAcoustics about the science behind speaker isolation, how IsoAcoustics products improve clarity and imaging, and why these solutions matter in both professional and home audio environments. They also cover immersive audio setups, soffit-mounted speakers, and how early design consultation prevents compromises later.https://www.isoacoustics.comVideo By: More Than Media - www.morethan.mediaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/morethan.media/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morethan.mediaYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@morethanmedia_The S.O.U.N.D. Project Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sound-project/id1680525959Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6dkk1s642VFjZGsdYGyxBPGoogle: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9kZTBiZGNlOC9wb2RjYXN0L3JzcwFull episodes playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLghfvh2wd7A9MnVKr44jtPEg0qcZ1esTFKeep up with us on our Socials:- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@haverstickdesigns- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haverstickdesigns/- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HaverstickDesigns- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@haverstickdesigns- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/haverstick-designs/- Linktree: https://linktr.ee/haverstickdesigns- Website: https://www.haverstickdesigns.com/#TheSOUNDProject #IsoAcoustics #StudioDesign #SpeakerIsolation #ProAudio #ImmersiveAudio #HomeAudio #RecordingStudio #HaverstickDesigns #SoundEngineering00:00 – Intro and meeting Dave Mawson00:35 – Dave’s background in studio and building design01:30 – The origin of IsoAcoustics02:30 – How speaker isolators improve performance04:00 – Designing products for both pro and home audio06:00 – Differences in educating pro vs home customers08:00 – Immersive audio, Atmos setups, and isolation challenges10:30 – New products and solutions for ceiling/wall mounts12:30 – Collaborating with manufacturers for integrated solutions14:00 – Testing, R&D, and relaying data to customers16:00 – The real impact of isolation on imaging and soundstage18:00 – Why early planning in studio design matters20:00 – Closing thoughts and how to get started with IsoAcoustics

In this episode of The SOUND Project, Gavin sits down with James Good from Vintage King to talk about his journey into studio integration and design. James shares how he got started at Guitar Center Hollywood, his role at Vintage King, and how large-scale studio projects like Studio 333 come together from concept to reality.Video By: More Than Media - www.morethan.mediaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/morethan.media/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morethan.mediaYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@morethanmedia_The S.O.U.N.D. Project Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sound-project/id1680525959Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6dkk1s642VFjZGsdYGyxBPGoogle: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9kZTBiZGNlOC9wb2RjYXN0L3JzcwFull episodes playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLghfvh2wd7A9MnVKr44jtPEg0qcZ1esTFKeep up with us on our Socials:- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@haverstickdesigns- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haverstickdesigns/- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HaverstickDesigns- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@haverstickdesigns- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/haverstick-designs/- Linktree: https://linktr.ee/haverstickdesigns- Website: https://www.haverstickdesigns.com/#TheSOUNDProject #VintageKing #StudioDesign #StudioIntegration #ProAudio #RecordingStudio #StudioBuild #HaverstickDesigns #SoundEngineering #acoustics 00:00 – Intro00:08 – Meet James from Vintage King00:35 – Getting started at Guitar Center Hollywood01:00 – Transition into studio design and integration02:00 – What James focuses on at Vintage King02:30 – The Studio 333 project collaboration04:00 – How projects go from paper to reality05:30 – How early consultation helps avoid design compromises06:30 – Working in Nashville vs Los Angeles08:00 – Private studio projects and referrals09:00 – Balancing music, art, and design10:00 – Current studio projects in Palm Springs and LA11:30 – What stage of a project is most important12:30 – Why early planning makes better studios13:10 – How to get in touch with James