There’s a definite upturn in new club and entertainment venues, as patrons love to feel the beat, turn it up, get down and party. Of course, a great sound system is a key element in the success of such projects. We looked at some recent installs that take club sound to the next level.
Jupiter Supper Club, Austin, TX
Austin’s Jupiter Supper Club is an immersive, multi-sensory experience offering fine dining and flawless sound, featuring Meyer Sound systems throughout, and its intimate, 30-seat Nova Lounge live music room has a Meyer Constellation acoustic system.
Jupiter Supper Club founders Bill and Lara Perkins sought the best for their first hospitality venture. “We flew to Meyer Sound to listen to their speakers,” says Bill Perkins, “and these are very, very good speakers. While we were there, they introduced us to Constellation. They had it on while they were talking to me, then turned it off. It blew me away.”
Housed in a historic building in downtown Austin, Jupiter Supper Club blends gilded age opulence with cutting-edge technology, offering a meticulously curated experience. Inside, four sumptuous spaces — the Nova Lounge, the Library Lounge, the Bar and the Terrace restaurant — offer fine dining, socializing and world-class live music.
The Meyer speakers in each room are custom-painted to match the venue’s luxury finishes, yet the 30-seat Nova Lounge stands out, with its Constellation system that transforms the room’s acoustics at the push of a button. “Artists and guests have been blown away by how good it sounds,” says Perkins. “It’s immersive without cranking the volume — more like a warm bath of sound than just blasting music at you.”
The sound systems and active acoustics were designed and integrated by Ford AV, working with Meyer’s design team. The Nova Lounge’s Constellation system has 16 UP-4slim ultra-compact speakers, six MM-10 miniature subs, an array of concealed mics and 12 Ashby-8C ceiling speakers — all managed by Meyer’s NADIA-CP digital audio platform. The lounge also has two Acheron screen channel speakers, two USW-210P narrow subs, two ULTRA-X20 point-source speakers and two MJF-208 stage monitors.
“The Nova Lounge live room is a hybrid Constellation system unlike anything we’ve seen,” says Ford AV audio engineer Jon Atkinson. “The room is so intimate that performers can sing completely acoustically, and the system will still immerse the audience without excessive volume. The first time we ran a demo, musicians were stunned — they’d never heard anything like it.”
Elsewhere in the venue, custom-painted Meyer UP-4slim and ULTRA-X22 speakers, along with Ashby ceiling speakers, provide seamless sound in the Library Lounge, The Bar and Atrium dining room. Those systems are managed by the Galileo GALAXY network platform.
Jupiter Supper Club sets new standards for high-end entertainment. “I’ve been to a lot of spaces, bars, clubs — you name it,” says Ford AV project manager Robert Burt. “I’m going to venture to say that this is the best sound system in Austin.”
Jupiter Supper Club
- Capacity: 90 seats across multiple venues
- Key Products: Meyer Sound Constellation system
- Integrator/Designer: Ford AV with Meyer Sound
1015 Folsom, San Francisco, CA
A legendary San Francisco venue for more than 35 years, 1015 Folsom recently upgraded its decades-old sound system. Michael Lacina of JK Sound, a long-time audio provider for the club, collaborated with fellow integrator Don Lynch of Commercial Audio Video Solutions (CAVS), who together, deployed a d&b audiotechnik system featuring install-variant A-Series ALi60 augmented arrays paired with V-Series Vi-GSUB subwoofers.
“1015 Folsom is one of the longest running, continuously operating dance clubs in the US, and the story of this install goes back even further,” says JK Sound’s president and founder, Michael Lacina. “I met Ira Sandler, 1015 Folsom’s owner in 1983 when he contacted me to provide sound for a party featuring Romeo Void. Ira loved our sound system, and Ira’s dance parties kept growing, as did our sound reinforcement capabilities, so we kept working together. Seeking a permanent home for his events, Ira bought Das Klub in 1989 and renamed it as 1015 Folsom. We replaced the club’s sound system and have had a hand in almost every sound system in the club ever since.”
“The objective at 1015 Folsom was to overhaul clubgoers’ audio experience with contemporary loudspeakers and amplification, and a rider-friendly system that meets touring artists expectations,” adds Commercial Audio Video Solutions founder, Don Lynch. “Since the last system was installed, there’s been significant residential development around the venue, and the new system needed to minimize noise escaping from the club. A d&b A-Series system with single-channel cardioid V-Series subwoofers offered the desired SPLs and coverage and provided tight pattern control to reduce the impact on the neighborhood… while remaining cost-effective.”
In the main room, the installed sound system is comprised of four corner-mounted A-Series arrays, flown as three-per side, horizontal clusters. These are complemented by eight Vi-GSUB subwoofers positioned under the stage. “The mid-bass response of the A-Series and low-frequency impact of the Vi-GSUBs combine together to deliver an optimal dance floor experience,” says Lynch. Eight xS-Series 10S-D speakers placed in the mezzanine and bar areas ensure consistent coverage throughout the venue. On stage and DJ booth monitoring is via up to four M4 stage monitors positioned over Vi-GSUB subs that can be configured as needed. The overall design allows for flexibility, accommodating potential reconfigurations of the room orientation and it’s d&b Soundscape-ready, for future auditory enhancements. “We dedicated considerable effort to managing sound propagation,” Lynch says, “relying heavily on the cardioid behavior of the V-SUBs and the directional characteristics of the A-Series arrays to minimize noise spill beyond the venue’s boundaries and between its various spaces.” He adds that the sound system “offers wide rider acceptance, with no artist refusing to play through it.”
“The feedback from the performers about our new d&b system has been exceptional,” concludes Marcus Garcia, the club’s production manager, noting “frequent mentions of its clarity and power.”
1015 Folsom
- Capacity: 600 (Main Room)
- Key Products: d&b audiotechnik A-Series
- Integrator: JK Sound; Commercial Audio Video Solutions
Mosaic Nightclub, Kansas City, MO
Mosaic Nightclub in Kansas City has reopened — reintroducing itself as the city’s premier nightlife destination with a high-performance 1 Sound audio system.
Located in the heart of the Kansas City Power & Light District, Mosaic is known for high-energy events and sleek design, including an indoor dance floor that opens onto an outdoor balcony overlooking the plaza. To match the versatility of the space, the audio system needed to deliver exceptional clarity and power while also standing up to the elements when the space transitions into open-air mode.
The team at Definitive Pro Sound, led by Peter Bonavota, designed and installed a 1 Sound system centered around the Contour CT212 loudspeakers paired with SUB2112 subs. This forms a 5-way system that’s articulate and clean — especially at high volumes.
The CT212 is a long-throw, point-source speaker with 145 DB max SPL for extreme clarity without distortion. Guests enjoy loud, immersive sound without ear fatigue — encouraging them to stay longer and keep the energy going. Research and feedback from previous 1 Sound installs have consistently shown the impact of cleaner audio on guest experience and retention.
Two CT212s were flown as the main left / right speakers using with two SUB2112 subwoofers mounted in the ceiling to deliver deep, room-filling bass across the dance floor.
The DJ booth monitoring system is equally powerful. Two Contour CT28 loudspeakers paired with two SUB215 subs were installed using 1 Sound accessories for clean, integrated mounting — ensuring the artist hears every nuance of their mix, no matter the volume.
For supplemental fill coverage in areas exposed to the club’s open-air layout — marine-grade Cannon C8m speakers were installed using C-clamps and L-brackets for flexible aiming. Using weather-resistant speakers ensures that even if the club opens its windows or experiences exposure to outdoor conditions, performance and protection go hand-in-hand.
With a seamless blend of form, function, and weatherproof durability, Mosaic’s new audio system positions it at the forefront of nightlife entertainment in the Midwest. Whether the dance floor is pulsing indoors or the crowd spills out under the stars, 1 SOUND ensures the party never misses a beat.
Mosaic Nightclub
- Capacity: 400 (+150 patio)
- Key Products: 1 Sound Contour & Sub Series
- Integrator: Definitive Pro Sound
NOYA X 80 PROOF, Jakarta, Indonesia
Located in Jakarta’s upscale Pantai Indah Kapuk 2 (PIK2) district, the NOYA X 80 PROOF sets Southeast Asia’s new nightlife benchmark having added an L-Acoustics K2 system. The 1,500-capacity venue represents Jakarta’s ambition to compete on the global nightlife stage. NOYA X 80 PROOF offers a curated entertainment experience featuring both top local talent and world-touring DJs where audio fidelity was prioritized from the earliest design stages.
The club’s management specifically requested L-Acoustics K2 after experiencing its signature sound at Belgium’s world-renowned Tomorrowland EDM festival. “The NOYA team recognized that having L-Acoustics would position them as an elite nightlife destination,” explains Hendra Halim, Project Manager and Systems Engineer at Gracia Auvindo, the L-Acoustics Certified Partner who designed and implemented the system. “The K2’s festival-grade sound quality and high-performance capabilities will undoubtedly establish NOYA as one of the best-sounding nightclubs in Southeast Asia.”
Working closely with L-Acoustics APAC application engineers, the Gracia Auvindo team executed multiple design iterations to accommodate the nightclub’s demanding visual elements while maintaining superior acoustic performance throughout the space. “L-Acoustics Soundvision was invaluable in coordinating with structural and mechanical engineers, as well as the interior design team,” notes Halim. “We created a precise audio system design that included key data such as mechanics and speaker weights, their optimal positions, and coverage angles.”
The final installation features a main L/R system of nine K2 boxes per side with 16 KS28 subwoofers under the stage to provide the thunderous low-end essential for EDM, while maintaining pristine clarity across all frequencies. An out-fill system has two arrays of two L-Acoustics A15 Focus and one Wide per side, with two KS21 subs stacked on stage per side for extended LF, ensuring every corner of the venue experiences consistent, impactful sound.
Eight A10 Focus enclosures provide front-fill from the stage lip, maintaining the sonic experience for front-row patrons, while performing DJs receive precise monitoring through two ARCS II speakers and two KS21 subs.
“My team at Gracia Auvindo are proud to have delivered the L-Acoustics K2 system, equipping NOYA with exceptional audio technology to accommodate top international artists and DJs, while impressing audiences with stunning sound that perfectly complements their visual displays,” notes Halim.
NOYA X 80 PROOF
- Capacity: 1,500
- Key Products: L-Acoustics K2
- Integrator/Designer: Gracia Auvindo
Jazzclub Karlsruhe, Karlsruhe, Germany
Since its founding in the 1960s, Jazzclub Karlsruhe has become a cornerstone of Germany’s cultural scene, securing a lasting place in the jazz world. The journey was not without challenges: after years of searching and several temporary venues, the club finally found a permanent home in the heart of Karlsruhe. In its new location, the club leverages cutting-edge technology to deliver an unforgettable auditory experience.
The club’s latest technical upgrade features a 16-fader Lawo mc²36 audio mixing console and microphones from Schoeps — two brands renowned for their contributions to audio technology. Together, they bring the club’s sonic vision to life. Niklas König, chairman of the Jazzclub, explained the decision.
“The Jazzclub stands for quality and tradition. When we host artists, we aim to provide an outstanding stage and the best possible sound experience for our audience. The Lawo mc²36 offers the ideal combination of compact design and powerful performance — crucial for our limited technical space, without compromising audio quality.”
The Lawo mc²36, equipped with A__UHD Core technology, delivers high performance, with 384 processing channels at 48/96 kHz, up to 864 I/O channels, local I/Os, native Ravenna/AES67 IP connectivity and built-in Waves SuperRack plug-in integration.
“We often use up to 32 channels from the stage, mixing them for P.A. and monitor paths, along with dedicated playout and multitrack recording paths. We can use up to 16 aux and 16 playout paths while recording each source discretely,” König explains.
The mc²36’s intuitive user interface ensures a smooth workflow. “Even freelance technicians can quickly get up to speed,” König emphasizes. ” The touch screen interface and clearly structured workflow enable fast familiarization and reliable operation during live performances.”
Also key to the club’s sound is its use of Schoeps modular Colette series mics. Depending on production needs, they are used as drum overheads, on the grand piano or in front of wind instruments. “Their transparent off-axis response gives sound engineers maximum flexibility in the mix,” says Schoeps’ Florian Gundert — “an advantage on intimate acoustic setups or louder, more crowded stages.”
This precision also enhances in-ear monitoring. “The clarity of the in-ear mix is remarkable,” König adds. “Our musicians can focus entirely on their performance, thanks to a perfectly balanced sound image in their ears.”
Even at higher volumes, the P.A. system delivers crystal-clear sound. Still, the club often opts for subtle miking techniques. “With a jazz trio, for instance, we lightly mic the instruments to complement the natural room acoustics and optimize the sound balance for the audience — without altering the direct sound character or introducing noticeable amplification,” König explains.
The integration of Lawo and Schoeps technologies shows how Jazzclub Karlsruhe harmonizes tradition with innovation to deliver the ultimate musical experience. “Our guests come here to experience music in its purest acoustic form,” König concludes. “With finely tuned room acoustics and premium signal processing, we ensure that every artistic detail and dynamic nuance reaches the audience with clarity and balance.”
Jazzclub Karlsruhe
- Key Products: Lawo mc²36; Schoeps Colette mics
- Integrator: In-house
El Molino, Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona’s historic El Molino, a former cabaret theater and cultural landmark for more than 100 years, reopened following renovations and a total refresh of its installed sound, lighting and stage technologies. The iconic club presents music, stand-up comedy and other entertainment five nights a week, and now features a Solid State Logic Live L100 Plus mixing console at FOH and a d&b audiotechnik Soundscape immersive audio system.
Tasked with equipping the venue, El Molino’s technical director Ramon Sendra Entrena, says the principal challenge “was implementing high-quality audio in a relatively compact auditorium that measures around 1,500 square feet and spans three floors,” Estrena reports.
“We opted for an immersive and enveloping audio system, ultimately selecting d&b Soundscape after extensive research,” he adds. That, in turn demanded a console that supported Dante and could communicate seamlessly with d&b’s DS100 processor, while also delivering exceptional clarity and sonic quality.
“The system also had to accommodate the venue’s evolving needs, including immersive audio, broadcast signals for television and high-quality audio for live recordings.” Estrena says. “It was also crucial that the system remained intuitive, ensuring every technician could apply their expertise without being hindered by an unfamiliar workflow. Given these requirements, the SSL L100 Plus emerged as the ideal choice.”
Estrena, whose background includes working with SSL equipment in music production facilities, elaborates, “On stage, we use an SSL ML 32.32 analog stagebox connected to the console via MADI, with a dedicated backup system. The DS100 receives Dante signals from the SSL L100 Plus, which are routed via fiber-connected switchers distributed throughout the venue. The DS100 then processes and sends these signals to the DS10 network bridge, which converts Dante signals into AES, directly driving the d&b amplifiers.” The entire system operates at 96 kHz.
“The system is networked so that, through d&b’s En-Bridge solution, we can control the positioning of DS100 Soundscape En-Scene objects directly from SSL’s dedicated d&b Soundscape control interface,” Estrena continues. “This integration lets operators focus entirely on achieving the best possible mix without having to switch between multiple interfaces.”
The SSL Live software provides control of d&b Soundscape directly from the console GUI, for manipulating object parameters, XY pan, spread, En-Space send, delay mode and mapping area from every input channel and stem. Those parameters can be stored and recalled from within the console’s show file and scene memories.
The SSL Live TaCo (Tablet Control) mix app provides wireless control of SSL Live consoles from smart devices. “Beyond enabling remote control of the console for on-stage monitor mixing, its real-time capabilities further streamline operations,” Estrena explains. “TaCo can also let musicians adjust their own monitor mixes.”
Although the venue’s sound system might appear complex, Estrena notes that “the seamless integration between the SSL L100 Plus control interface and d&b En-Bridge makes operation very intuitive. This setup lets the operator control sound object positioning directly from the SSL touch screen, adjusting placement dynamically across different scenes to enhance the audience’s immersive experience. It’s intuitive, efficient and highly effective.” He adds that, since the relaunch, “we’ve received positive feedback from musicians, technicians and promoters” along with club patrons themselves.
El Molino
- Capacity: 244
- Key Products: SSL Live L100 Plus; d&b Soundscape
- Integrator: In-house
- Designer: Ramon Sendra Entrena
Alaya 120, Madrid, Spain
Anyone who has walked the streets of Madrid after dark will know that the city is packed with nightlife options to suit any taste and any budget. With so much choice, clubs and bars in the city need to work hard to stand out, and Ayala 120 is doing just that.
Nestled in Madrid’s exclusive Salamanca district, Ayala 120 blends elements of a sultry nightclub, high-end cocktail bar and lively salsa club, making it a go-to spot to party late into the night.
With a capacity of 300 and music playing from 7pm until 6am most days, the club needs a reliable and memorable sound system to keep the dance floor full and to ensure customers keep coming back. To make this happen, the owners looked to high-end loudspeaker manufacturer Renkus-Heinz.
The club is divided into two main zones: the central dance floor, which serves as the main club area, and a secondary area at the edge of the dance floor and around the bar. “Our goal was to transform the customer experience by providing an immersive atmosphere, with music at the heart of it all,” says Ivan Castillo, of SeeSound, Renkus-Heinz’s distributor in Spain.
The team at SeeSound selected Renkus-Heinz C Series loudspeakers to fill both spaces. “These loudspeakers incorporate advanced point-source technology and Complex Conic Horns with updated drivers, to deliver clean, natural sound with enhanced pattern control,” Castillo explains. “The C Series provided the sound quality and control we needed for a club environment. The horn design helps keep the sound even and focused, so whether you’re on the dance floor or off to the side, you’re getting the same clear, powerful audio. And with the CX models, we had the flexibility to configure the system exactly how we wanted for each part of the space.”
The team installed a combination of the CX121, CX112S, and CX61 models. The four CX121 speakers serve as the foundation of the venue’s audio setup, offering high output and precision to ensure every note, beat and lyric is crystal clear throughout the space. This compact size, yet full-range speaker delivers powerful, balanced sound without overwhelming the room.
Two CX112S subs provide the rich low frequencies essential for dance music. Its powerful bass output infuses the venue with pulsating energy, creating a fully immersive experience. Rounding out the system, the CX61 loudspeakers add clarity and detail to the mids and treble, ensuring the music remains crisp, well-balanced, and free of distortion. Whether the intricate highs of a DJ mix or the smooth flow of electronic beats, the CX61 maintains fidelity across all frequencies.
“We chose Renkus-Heinz CX121 loudspeakers for the main space. They deliver a lot of power and provide a controlled bottom-end that really helps on the dance floor,” notes Castillo. “For the areas around the perimeter of the dance floor, which needed to allow conversation, we installed four CX61 loudspeakers as they deliver enough power in a low-profile cabinet and has an extended coverage, especially in the horizontal axis.”
“We wanted something to would set us apart from the rest of the clubs in this area,” say the owners of Ayala 120. “With this combination Renkus-Heinz system, we now have the edge over our competitors and that our customers will keep coming back to party with us.”
Alaya 120
- Capacity: 300
- Key Products: Renkus-Heinz C Series
- Integrator: SeeSound
