St. Finbar’s Church

Location: Diego Martin, Trinidad and Tobago
Project: Audio and Acoustics Upgrade
Completed: April 2026
Project Manager: Aaron Rudden

Project Overview

CET designed and installed an engineered sound-reinforcement system and architectural acoustic treatment to improve speech intelligibility, coverage, and listening comfort throughout St. Finbar’s Church.

The Client’s Vision

St. Finbar’s is a prominent venue within Trinidad and Tobago’s Roman Catholic community. Since its construction, the church had experienced difficult acoustic conditions, poor speech intelligibility, and inconsistent sound quality despite remediation attempts by several local and international contractors.

The client needed a dependable solution that would preserve the church’s visual character while allowing every parishioner to hear services clearly and comfortably.

System Design

CET used predictive acoustic modeling to evaluate more than 100 potential system configurations. This engineering-led approach allowed the team to identify the most effective design within the available budget before equipment was installed.

The completed solution combines a carefully designed sound-reinforcement system with discreet, two-inch-thick acoustic absorption. The placement, shape, and finish of the treatments were customized to complement the church’s existing architecture.

Key Features and Engineering Highlights

Predictive acoustic modeling used to evaluate more than 100 system-design options.
Engineered loudspeaker placement and system configuration for improved coverage and speech intelligibility.
Two-inch-thick acoustic absorption installed throughout key areas of the worship space.
Custom-built treatments designed to replicate existing architectural forms and features.
Closely matched fabric colors that minimize the treatments’ visual impact.
Beamforming microphone technology supporting clear and consistent vocal reproduction.
Improved sound quality with significantly reduced listening fatigue.
Replacement of the previous wooden equipment rack, which presented ventilation and safety concerns.
New open-frame equipment rack with pull-out and rotating access for easier servicing, improved airflow, and efficient use of the available space.

Project Results

Churchgoers now experience clearer speech, more consistent audio coverage, and greater listening comfort during Mass. Complaints concerning sound quality and intelligibility have been eliminated, while parishioners regularly compliment the improvement.

The upgraded system also gives clergy and other speakers greater confidence in their vocal delivery, helping them communicate more effectively with the congregation.