So, I don't post here, or any forum much, but I lurk a lot to learn. I haven't seen this subject come up so...
I'm a volunteer for sound at my church. This means I get to cover lighting duties as well most Sundays, and with a new pastor arriving I've been asked to come up with a new solution for house lights during worship. Current house lighting is fluorescent, so it needs to go away.
Requirements as far as light level would be adequate light during worship for moving around as people tend to walk in late, and bright enough for the elderly crowd to read a bible during the sermon. Easily dimmable and changeable is a must, as the current fluorescent lighting is, well, abysmal as far as control/color/video-friendly, and pretty much every other metric unless you want to play basketball.
The building was built in 2000. It is the typical "sanctuary/gymnasium" with a full size basketball court to give an idea of room size. The ceiling height is about 22 feet. Room is painted white/beige with a white drop tile ceiling. The stage is on the long side of the room, and is about 28 feet deep and 45 feet wide.
Current control is from a NSI MC7532 board. We have two NSI dimmers controlling current stage lights, each are 8 channels @2400w per channel. We also have some cheap, old LED can lights to provide up-lighting, with all being set to the same channels. I am up for changing the control to a computer with a USB to DMX controller if that is what it takes, just say so and that can happen. Electric isn't a concern, we have licensed electricians in the congregation and can run proper circuits as needed.
So, what do I need? What do you recommend? Anything to stay away from? I don't have a budget number given to me, but from past experience I'll assume that $5-10k is doable without much of a fight. If you need more information, please ask. I can get pictures of the room, or anything else you need. Thanks in advance for the help!