L-Acoustics immersive audio technology has been installed at Grace Family Church in Bubikon, Switzerland, replacing an ageing sound system with a design intended to improve speech intelligibility and musical imaging throughout the Church Dome.
The final system comprises five hangs, each consisting of one A15i Wide and one A15i Focus loudspeaker, with low-frequency reinforcement from two centre-flown hangs of two KS21i subwoofers. An X8 loudspeaker is flown on each side to cover the lateral areas at the front of the room. A single L-ISA Processor II provides object processing, while an LA7.16i amplified controller drives the 16-enclosure system.
The project was delivered by Swiss partners SDS, Soundrig AG, Stagelight and Impact Atelier, with the system configured to work around the venue’s fabric roof, chandelier, front projection and lighting positions.
The church initially asked SDS for a like-for-like replacement of its existing left/right loudspeaker system, but a site survey found that the original positions could not provide the required imaging for speech or music. Following demonstrations at the SDS Auditorium in Winterthur and a 1:1 demonstration inside the Church Dome, the church opted for L-ISA. The installation is the first L-ISA system in a European house of worship.
Soundvision was used to model coverage, SPL distribution and loudspeaker positions, helping the project team balance sightlines with the projector’s field of view and front spotlights. Audio is routed from a Yamaha Rivage console over MADI to the L-ISA Processor II, with Milan-AVB carrying the signal to the LA7.16i. Impact Atelier also renewed the venue’s audio network, with the church reporting improved system stability.
The installation was completed in five days, beginning after a Sunday service and finishing in time for the following Friday’s Worship Night. The system is operated by a team of semi-professional volunteers, with Grace Family Church reporting positive feedback on its clarity, visual integration and day-to-day operation. Soundrig AG handled the rigging and PA installation, while SDS provided sales and application support.
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