L-Acoustics unifies Shenzhen University venues
L-Acoustics unifies Shenzhen University venues
Shenzhen University has standardised the audio systems across its Arts Complex with the installation of L-Acoustics sound reinforcement systems in four performance venues, delivered by the brand’s Greater China distributor and certified provider Racpro.
Completed as part of the university's 40th anniversary celebrations, the 128,000m2 Arts Complex includes a 1,000-seat grand theatre, 500-seat theatre, 266-seat experimental theatre and 245-seat concert hall. The venues host a range of activities, from performances and concerts to teaching, rehearsals and graduation ceremonies.
The brief called for each space to receive a system tailored to its individual requirements while maintaining a consistent sonic character and operational workflow across the complex.
“One of the core challenges of this project involved resolving the tensions between the four venues' sound systems, architectural acoustics and interior aesthetics,” explained Ou Xiangjun, senior system engineer at Racpro. “We needed to achieve a deep integration of technology and art.”
To meet these requirements, Racpro carried out multiple Soundvision simulations to refine loudspeaker placement, coverage and rigging before installation. This was particularly important in the two largest venues, where the main systems were concealed behind acoustic cladding.
“We didn't want to rely on experience or rule of thumb for spaces like this,” noted Xiangjun. “Running Soundvision again and again enabled us to see exactly how the sound field would behave in every room and predict the SPL, speech intelligibility and frequency response in every seat. That gave us a closed loop from design through to installation, which is exactly what a project with this little margin for rework requires.”
The grand theatre and 500-seat theatre both feature concealed A15i Wide arrays supported by X Series loudspeakers and KS Series subwoofers. The experimental theatre uses visible Kiva II arrays with SB15 and SB18 IIi low-frequency reinforcement, allowing the system to serve as both a performance tool and a teaching resource. In the concert hall, four flown X12 loudspeakers provide the main PA, complemented by user-friendly scene presets and system training for staff and students.
“We achieved this through precise acoustic simulation and customised system integration, and we're delighted with the outcome,” concluded Xiangjun. “It's been an honour to deliver a system this comprehensive and reliable for Shenzhen University, and we're proud that it will help further the goals of tomorrow's artists.”
