An L-Acoustics L Series professional sound system recently helped to create an ingenious “box in a box concept” for the Alpexpo convention centre, in the City of Grenoble, France. The L-Acoustics system was installed to power a smaller 3,389sqm auditorium within the existing Greater Hall, which is the City’s main concert hall.
L-Acoustics says this architectural feat transformed what was once a traditional exhibition space into a chameleon-like venue that adapts between intimate seated concerts for 1,495 and energetic standing shows for 2,100.
Alpexpo wanted to create a more flexible space because of a growing demand for flexible venues that could handle everything from stand-up comedy to hybrid and immersive multimedia experiences.
According to L-Acoustics, the weight-to-power ratio of the L Series meant the team could deploy a full concert-grade line array system in the small space. Two L2D arrays were deployed as the main system, complemented by three flown KS21 subwoofers per side in cardioid configuration for controlled low-frequency management. A centre cluster featuring A10 Wide and A10 Focus speakers ensures perfect coverage for the first audience rows.
The installation includes monitoring solutions with permanently hung A10 speakers and mobile X8 units, plus six additional X8 speakers for stage lip coverage when needed. Every element was modelled using Soundvision software.
Antoine Maurel, sales & installation manager at L-Acoustics certified partner M+ Equipment, part of M Group, said: “Our challenge was creating an adaptable system that could be everything to everyone – pristine audio whether hosting a morning keynote or an evening concert – and the transformation had to be instant. They wanted to build a complete auditorium inside their existing hall.
“With the existing attachment points, we needed to have a lightweight and efficient system adapted to the type of events, hence the L2.”
Jérôme Riff, managing director of Alpexpo, added: “It’s enabled us to reimagine what our venue can be – from hosting agricultural conferences in the morning to world-class performances that evening, creating memorable experiences. This flexibility doesn’t just serve our business needs; it enriches our entire community’s cultural life.”
“It’s not just a sound system; it’s a complete ecosystem that reflects our venue’s ability to adapt and excel,” concluded Riff. “We’ve created something truly unique for the Grenoble region – a space that can be whatever our community needs it to be.”
