CUBE 521 RAISES THE BAR WITH L-ACOUSTICS KARA

Background
What started with a defective LA4 amplifier evolved into a complete audio transformation for the Luxembourg cultural center Cube 521. When one of the amplifiers failed, the technician drove to Audio Solvation in Sittard, where the unit was accepted for repair and – more importantly – provided with a loaner unit so that performances could continue uninterrupted. “That immediate service instilled confidence right away,” says head technician Filip Veirman. “It laid the foundation for a conversation about the future of our sound system.”

Challenge
Since its opening in 2007, Cube 521 had been working with an L-Acoustics Kiva + Kilo system. Over the years, the programming expanded, ranging from chamber music to larger productions, and required more headroom without losing the recognizable, warm soundscape.

Solution
The L-Acoustics KARA IIi was chosen in a flown configuration with SB18 IIi. For additional low-frequency bandwidth, KS28 has been added, and X12 provides the front fill for the first rows. Amplification and system control are handled by LA4X, LA12X, and LA2Xi, while the P1 processor acts as the bridge between FOH and the system. The KARA IIi progressive line-source platform combines the required SPL with uniform coverage; the system covers a wide range of program material in terms of bandwidth, contour, and output.

Audio Solvation handled the entire process, from Soundvision design to on-site installation support. “Because we liaised directly with L-Acoustics, the preliminary phase went flawlessly,” says Tom from Audio Solvation. “Together with an application engineer from L-Acoustics, we were able to fine-tune the system perfectly so that coverage and sound are consistent throughout the entire hall.”

Implementation
Audio Solvation handled the entire process, from Soundvision design to on-site installation support. “Because we liaised directly with L-Acoustics, the preliminary phase went flawlessly,” says Tom from Audio Solvation. “Together with an application engineer from L-Acoustics, we were able to fine-tune the system perfectly, ensuring consistent coverage and sound throughout the venue.”

Result
Visitors noticed the improvement immediately, and touring engineers praise the perfect dispersion and consistent sound balance. Soundchecks are shorter, and production riders with higher demands are easily achievable. “KARA gives us the headroom we were looking for without losing warmth. The stage is quieter, and we are ready for the show in half the time,” says Filip.

Outlook
With the upgrade, Cube 521 can effortlessly attract acts with high expectations regarding sound, ranging from detailed chamber music to more intensive productions. The future remains interesting. We view L-ISA as a future-oriented technology; interesting to keep following and fun to experiment with in the long term. Because audio technology is evolving, we actively monitor developments so that we can keep up and scale up in a targeted manner where this offers demonstrable added value.

About the partners
Cube 521 is a cultural center in northern Luxembourg that has hosted a wide range of performances since 2007. Audio Solvation is the official importer and first-line service point for L-Acoustics; customers benefit from direct support, short delivery times, and the most up-to-date stock.