L-Acoustics introduces immersive sound at a cultural facility located in Paris.
In Paris, the Grande Halle de la Villette - a 20,000sqm cultural hub nestled within a 55-hectare park - has recently undergone an audiovisual transformation. The historic structure, initially built as an abattoir in 1867, has now been repurposed to accommodate a wide range of artistic and entertainment events.
At the heart of this revamp is the 1,400-capacity Charlie Parker performance space, which is equipped with the latest L-Acoustics L Series L-ISA system. This semi-permanent venue comes to life each spring and operates until fall, serving as the primary stage for this technologically advanced sound system.
The collaboration behind this project was forged between La Villette's technical team and B Live, an L-Acoustics certified partner. The Charlie Parker performance space is adorned with five hangs of L-Acoustics L2 speakers, along with L2D arrays stretched across the stage. Front-fill X8i speakers line the stage lip for added spatial clarity, while two cardioid arrays of KS28 subwoofers provide controlled low-frequency reinforcement, central to the stage. Spatial surround sound is delivered by twelve X12 coaxial loudspeakers, positioned on the side and back walls. The entire system is powered by a network of 11 LA7.16, two LA12X, and three LA4X amplified controllers.
The L-ISA technology installed at La Villette aims to revolutionize the way various performance types engage with audiences. Dance productions can now have their choreographed movements precisely mirrored and simulated in the soundscape, creating a unique synaesthetic experience where sound follows motion. Theatrical performances, on the other hand, benefit from voice localization that precisely positions performers, enhancing the audience's perception regardless of viewing angles. Contemporary music showcases can now immerse listeners in three-dimensional soundscapes.
A purpose-built pre-production studio at La Villette features a permanently installed L-ISA setup, utilizing X8i and X6i speakers and Syva subwoofers. L-ISA Scale Simulation allows the studio environment to mimic the Grand Halle's acoustics, making it easier to transfer and optimize sound designs from studio to performance space. Both environments employ L-ISA Processor II for spatial audio rendering and signal management, seamlessly integrated with a Yamaha PM7 RIVAGE digital mixing console for intuitive control over spatial parameters.
Alexandre Tramontin, technical director at B Live, who designed the solution in close dialogue with La Villette's technical staff, remarked, "Delivering unparalleled spatial audio capabilities was crucial, as it demanded meticulous planning to integrate seamlessly with existing workflows while remaining true to the grandeur and versatility of this iconic venue." Olivier Olry, head of audiovisual at La Villette, added, "This investment in L-Acoustics L-ISA technology positions us at the forefront of immersive audio trends, offering a unique, enveloping audio environment that resonates with artists and audiences alike."
In this technologically advanced collaboration between La Villette's technical team and B Live, the Charlie Parker performance space within the Grande Halle de la Villette has been outfitted with the L-Acoustics L Series L-ISA system, aiming to revolutionize audio for various performance types, such as dance productions, theatrical performances, and contemporary music showcases. This investment in L-ISA technology features spatial surround sound and precise voice localization, positioning La Villette at the forefront of immersive audio trends for a unique, enveloping audio environment that resonates with artists and audiences alike.
