The Lío venue in Ibiza has deployed a zoned d&b audiotechnik sound system with AmpPresets to improve fidelity and increase SPL throughout the venue, which functions as a restaurant, theatre and club.
Lío Ibiza is part of the Pacha family and encompasses a gourmet restaurant, live cabaret theatre and port-side club.
Toni Prats, head of sound at Pacha Ibiza, commented: “Our previous loudspeaker system was constantly maxed out in terms of output, making it increasingly unreliable. We also had to set the system manually for the dinner show and post-dinner party. It was also difficult to adjust the sound pressure levels in different areas of the building based on the flow of people around the club, which is really critical for us.”
In 2014, Pacha made the strategic decision to standardise sound in its venues with technology from d&b audiotechnik. “After testing several loudspeaker systems, we shortlisted d&b and one other manufacturer,” said Prats. “d&b came out on top, offering amazing sound quality, global presence, and far better pre- and post-sales support than anyone else.”
When it was time to design a d&b system for Lío, d&b Education and Application Support teams were involved from the very beginning. “We divided the inside of the club and the terrace into seven zones, each with its own unique sound challenges,” continued Prats. “With support from d&b engineers, we were able to create a loudspeaker system that optimises sound, both inside and outside on the terrace.”
Most of the design work for the complex installation was done using the d&b ArrayCalc simulation software. “Being able to design the solution on a laptop saved us a lot of time,” added Prats. “When we installed the system, there were no surprises: it sounded fantastic.
“We couldn’t believe how small the d&b loudspeakers are, at first we thought they wouldn’t be loud enough. When we turned the system on, we were amazed. Not only was the sound super clear and crisp, but it was super loud as well. We’ve never needed to use it at full volume.”
The system can be accessed and adjusted using the d&b R1 Remote control software, enabling the Lío team to fine tune sound in every zone. “We created a ‘dinner mode’ AmpPreset where all sound comes from the stage on the terrace,” said Prats. “After the show, we change to the ‘club mode’ AmpPreset, which brings all the sound inside and increases the levels significantly as DJ sessions get underway.”
Prats concluded: “We ordered installation versions of the d&b loudspeakers: white for outside areas, and black inside, which looks very cool. We also went for a Weather Resistant finish that will protect the equipment in the humid, salty, port-side environment we have here. The d&b equipment has been 100% reliable, and we expect that to continue for years to come.”
Picture courtesy of Julian Farina and Tatiana Chausovsky
