Standing at the gateway to the French Champagne vineyards, the cathedrals and gothic architecture of Châlons-en-Champagne are counterpointed by the modern Le Capitole multi-purpose venue. Hosting events ranging from one-person shows to live music and musicals, the modular space can hold 3,600 in a combination of seated and standing audiences.
In 2023, faced with an expanding line-up of events, Le Capitole en Champagne updated its audio system, aiming for top-tier sound quality and versatility to meet diverse demands. Julien Dejonckeere, Technical Director at S-Pass TSE, the company that manages the venue, contacted local L-Acoustics Certified Provider Integrator, Lagoona.
Alongside optimal sound, the venue sought features like room mapping and easy installation. Using Soundvision, a LR system with centre fill was designed, comprising Eight K2 with three Kara II down per side and four KS28 subwoofers flown behind each side. The centre hang features three A15i Focus and one A15i Wide. Four A10 Wide per side serve as out fill, with six X8 as front fill. The system is managed by six LA7.16i, and two LA12X amplified controllers, with one P1 processor and six LS10 Milan-AVB switches. Using the LA7.16i allows for Auto-FIR processing of each K2 and keeps energy consumption to a minimum. Additionally, a stage monitor system of eight X12 is powered by two LA4X amplified controllers.
‘I’d say that the installation of this system allows us to have a room equipped with superb sound, which saves productions having to rent and install equipment,’ says Le Capitole en Champagne Director, Yannick Robert. ‘This translates to real budget economies for those productions.’
Since its commissioning, the system has won the appreciation of everyone who has used or heard it, from engineers to performers and audiences. The system responds to the diverse demands that Le Capitole makes, and meets the needs of visiting artists who appreciate a rider-friendly system.
Robert reports that the new L-Acoustics sound system has pushed the envelope at Le Capitole, ensuring the venue’s ability to offer a diverse programme of events and attract ever-more innovative and spectacular shows.
‘It’s entirely possible that having a concert sound system of this quality will be the deciding factor for productions to perform at Le Capitole,’ he says. ‘The mission was to offer a complete solution for all shows, and that’s certainly been achieved.’
More: www.l-acoustics.com
