For more than two decades, Papaya Beach Club has pulsated with the rhythms of Croatia’s celebrated Zrće Beach festivals and A-list DJs, from Tiesto to Calvin Harris to Paul Van Dyk. Having assured its place in dance music history, the club has now partnered with L-Acoustics on a new sound system…
‘Our vision was to transcend the limitations of rental equipment and create our own dedicated future-proof audio system,’ explains Luka Udovičić, Production Manager at Papaya Beach Club.
‘We sought a system that would allow us to showcase our creative potential for performance acoustics and ensure we remain at the cutting edge of audio technology for years to come.’
The choice of an L-Acoustics A Series was driven by the French manufacturer’s reputation for excellence and the service provided by L-Acoustics Certified Partner for Croatia, Dicroic, and has allowed Papaya to transition from rental reliance to a system precisely tailored to its needs.
Designing an audio system for Papaya Beach Club presented challenges, however. The venue’s open-air layout, proximity to the sea and exposure to strong winds demanded a system that could deliver exceptional sound while withstanding harsh environmental conditions.
‘L-Acoustics reputation stands unparalleled for transforming the listening experience,’ Udovičić says. ‘Our location is both our greatest asset and our greatest adversary, we required a system robust enough to withstand the ravages of the sea, and precise enough to deliver crystal-clear sound across our expansive space.’
Faced with handling the system design, Dicroic used L-Acoustics Soundvision software to create a bespoke solution. The software’s precise modelling capabilities were instrumental in optimising speaker placement and performance, especially given the venue’s distinctive white shell-shaped stage and multi-level layout.
Udovičić explains that the design process was made more difficult due to the stage height: ‘We were strict about pinpointing speaker locations. Each component was strategically positioned to create a harmonious sound field that defies our open-air challenges.’
The system comprises 16 A15i Focus and two A15i Wide line array speakers, complemented by four KS21 and eight KS28 subwoofers for robust low-end. Six X12 and two X8 loudspeakers serve as fill for the elevated VIP areas, ensuring uniform coverage throughout the venue. DJ monitoring is via two A15i Focus and two KS21 per side. The system is powered by four LA12X and eight LA4X amplified controllers.
‘Our new L-Acoustics system provides partygoers with the sonic clarity, power, and reliability required for world-class performances,’ Udovičić reports. The upgrade ensures that Papaya remains at the forefront of Croatia’s music scene, offering an unparalleled audio experience to a diverse and discerning clientele.
More: www.l-acoustics.com
