Audio Solvation has delivered a versatile L-Acoustics X Series system to balance high energy atmosphere with residential neighbourhood sound management.
A new addition to Amsterdam nightlife, SHU is an exclusive, guest-list-only venue transitions nightly from relaxed cocktail lounge to energetic dance floor, filling a specific niche in Amsterdam's entertainment landscape.
When developing the venue's sound concept, SHU's owners approached L-Acoustics Certified Partner Audio Solvation via production company, Air Light Holland, with a specific challenge: deliver sophisticated audio that could transform the space each night while respecting the urban location, which includes residential apartments directly above the venue. Having successfully implemented L-Acoustics systems in their other establishments, the owners knew this technology could provide the perfect solution for SHU's unique requirements.
"The professional PA system serves as the primary transition element that transforms the space from cocktail lounge to nightclub atmosphere," explains Tom Dohmen, Technical Sales at Audio Solvation. "We needed to deliver impact and feeling while respecting the urban setting."
Using L-Acoustics Soundvision, Audio Solvation created detailed projections to demonstrate the proposed design and system impact before installation. This visualisation helped SHU's owners understand how the sound would behave in their uniquely configured space, which includes a lounge entrance area, central bar, and VIP section.
The implemented system features an array of L-Acoustics X Series components strategically positioned throughout the venue. Five 5XT compact coaxial speakers cover the entrance lounge, while the central bar area is served by four X8i coaxial speakers paired with SB15m subwoofers for enhanced low-frequency presence. The VIP area features dedicated coverage via two additional X8i speakers. DJ monitoring is provided by one 5XT speaker. The entire system is powered by two LA4X and one LA2Xi amplified controllers.
Following the installation, Audio Solvation conducted acoustic measurements both inside the venue and in the residential apartments above, tuning the system to minimise noise impact on neighbours while maintaining the desired atmosphere. During special events like the Amsterdam Dance Event, one of the world's premier electronic music festivals, SHU participates fully in the city-wide celebration by adjusting the acoustics to accommodate international DJs requiring the system's full potential.