INDONESIA: In Badung, Indonesia, Jade Eatery & Sips, a modern Asian restaurant and cocktail lounge, has upgraded its ambiance with a new audio system installed by Sontastic.
Featuring Cuboid speakers known for their rich sound, the installation ensures smooth audio throughout the lounge. Now open to the public, Jade Lounge invites guests to enjoy fine dining and cocktails accompanied by seamless sound.
For a delightful dining experience with great music, visit Jade Eatery & Sips today!
NETHERLANDS: Opened in September 2022, and located in the village of Mijnsheerenland to the south of Rotterdam, Brasserie de Greup is a beautifully designed hospitality venue offering high-quality food, drink, and entertainment. Whether it’s just for a visit to the bar, a delicious meal for two, or a party for hundreds, Brasserie de Greup, with its restaurant, recently renovated cafe and sun-drenched outdoor terrace, is a magnet for the discerning customer. Instrumental in the creation of its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere is an Optimal Audio system, installed by AVgek of Rotterdam.
Vastly experienced installers AVgek specialise in commercial and domestic audio-visual projects, and consulted with the team at Brasserie de Greup over their requirements. The Brasserie wanted to provide background and foreground music reinforcement for the bar and restaurant areas, from a system that was as easy as possible for its staff to operate.
Bob Sol of AVgek comments:
“We have a great relationship with Audio Technica Benelux (Optimal Audio’s distributor in the region) and were aware that this new brand had attracted a very positive reaction. Having made an assessment of the venue’s needs, we felt that they aligned perfectly with what Optimal Audio could offer, so advised the Brasserie team accordingly. This was our first install with Optimal Audio, and we were blown away by the simplicity and ease of use for the installer and the user!”
Bob designed a system comprising four on-wall, landscape-mounted Optimal Audio Cuboid 8 two-way, full range, passive 8” loudspeakers and a single Sub 15 subwoofer, controlled by a Zone 4 controller via WebApp. WebApp makes system set-up straightforward – once completed, venue staff are presented with a simple user interface which allows for easy operation via mobile phone. At Brasserie de Greup, the system is configured with presets for background and foreground music choices. The former sees the system preset without the Sub 15 and with the Cuboid 8s acting as full-range units, while the latter deploys the subwoofer with the low frequency removed from the Cuboid 8.
The system lives up to every expectation according to Bob:
“The client is really happy with the sound and the simplicity of WebApp, and has indicated that they will soon be looking to replace old systems in the four other areas of the venue with Optimal Audio. The system in the Brasserie sounds really great with both presets – since this first outing with Optimal Audio, we’ve offered it to a number of clients and already seen a big uptake. It’s proving very popular indeed.”
In November 2022, Sarai Restaurant debuted at Singapore’s Tanglin Mall with an Optimal Audio installation by XC Lighting Pte Ltd.
The foundation of this setup was the Zone 4 controller, dispersing sound across distinct zones like the lobby and private dining areas. Up 6 ceiling speakers delivered consistent, full sound, while Sub 10 subwoofers added depth without occupying much space.
These choices were aimed at ensuring top-quality sound in various zones, including private dining areas. The objective was clear: crafting a balanced, premium audio atmosphere to enrich the dining experience at Sarai from its very start.
Optimal Audio debuts HUSH (INS) bar in Shanghai’s Xintiandi, offering a haven of tranquility with superior sound technology. Optimal Audio’s Cuboid loudspeakers were the speaker of choice for the new venue.
HUSH (INS) bar isn’t just about superior sound equipment—it’s a musical sanctuary. Featuring regular performances by both local and international DJs and musicians, the bar offers a rich tapestry of music styles and performances, inviting guests to lose themselves in the beats. The bar takes pride in creating a comfortable music environment, with its stylish decor and carefully engineered sound waves ensuring an immersive listening experience, whether you choose to unwind by the dance floor or settle near the bar.
HUSH (INS) bar distinguishes itself not just through its superior sound equipment but as a destination celebrating music’s richness. Regular performances promise a diverse tapestry of beats, inviting patrons to lose themselves in the rhythm and ambiance of the space.
Richer Sounds Custom Install team designs and supplies Optimal Audio system for install by Hi-Tech AV Ltd at Greater Manchester venue.
Georgia Browns in the town of Hindley, Greater Manchester is a destination sports and entertainment venue. Recently re-furbished and re-launched, and featuring a large media wall, the venue also hosts multiple additional screens showing a wide range of sports, as well as staging live bands, DJ sets and karaoke. The team at Georgia Brown gave careful consideration to its technical needs, and having invested in its media wall through Richer Sounds, consulted with the company’s Custom Installation design team over the best way forward for its audio requirements.
Richer Sounds recommended an Optimal Audio system to deliver the venue’s requirement for background and party level music. Custom Installation Manager Tim Smith and his team designed the system in conjunction with the venue, and engaged experienced subcontractor James Mahon of Hi-Tech AV Ltd to install the system. Tim felt that for a large space like Georgia Browns, an Optimal Audio solution would reliably provide the necessary quality at high SPL to meet the all-round challenge. The install was James Mahon’s first experience of the brand:
“Right out of the box, you could tell they were going to be good. The build quality looked superb and the speakers duly delivered sound to match.”
Two Cuboid 15 and two Cuboid 10 passive on-wall loudspeakers were installed in the demanding areas of the room close to the stage, with a further eight Cuboid 8 units taking care of the rest of the space. A single Sub 15 and a pair of Sub 10 units were discreetly located beneath seating areas to deliver the low end. The system is driven by three SmartAmp 30 amplifiers with integral DSP.
Speaking on behalf of the Richer Sounds Custom Installation design team, Tim Smith comments:
“The system performs wonderfully, providing a balanced audio performance for different volume levels. There’s no doubt that the quality and performance of Optimal Audio’s product range is excellent – the client is very happy with the outcome, which was achieved for a very competitive outlay.”
James Mahon concludes:
“I’ve had a great deal of experience installing AV solutions for large pub chains and having heard the results here, I’ll definitely be recommending and installing Optimal Audio again. I’ve already recommended them to a previous employer who handles a large volume of commercial audio installs across a wide spectrum of applications. As soon as the system was up and running at Georgia Browns, the customer was blown away!”
The Pirate Kindergarten in the German city of Bergisch Gladbach places a strong emphasis on the part played by music in children’s development. Music is a constant theme during activities at the day care centre and when the Kindergarten’s team agreed that its ageing sound system could no longer meet their ambitions, they engaged audio experts Starpoint to supply a replacement. As well as delivering high quality audio throughout the Kindergarten, the new system needed to be easy to install and operate.
Bastian Sauer of Starpoint recommended an Optimal Audio solution:
“We listened to all the requirements and quickly concluded that Optimal Audio offered the best solution for this application. Working with the customer we specified the system and assisted them with programming the Zone unit, leaving them to carry out the installation work themselves without any problems.”
The system at The Pirate Kindergarten consists of ten Optimal Audio Cuboid 5 loudspeakers and a Zone 8P controller. Cuboid 5 is a discreet high performance two-way, full range, passive 5” on-wall loudspeaker which has portrait or landscape mounting options. Zone 8P is a zonal audio controller with DSP, amplification and WebApp. This single compact unit is the beating heart of an efficient multi-zoned system, and allows users to independently allocate sources across up to 8 configurable zones within a venue. Each zone can be configured to do precisely what is required by the use of the intuitive WebApp. Installation and operation is thus straightforward and highly cost-effective. The Kindergarten system comprises 4 zones controlled from 2 different rooms.
“The Zone 8P with its integrated 8-channel amplifier delivers more than enough power for the entire system and the Cuboid loudspeakers can also be used for outdoor applications by means of optional terminal covers for the connections on the back which render them IP-54 compliant. Optimal Audio thus safely and effortlessly delivers perfect sound throughout the facility.”
According to Bettina Omer, head of the day care centre, the new system has proved to be a huge success for children and caregivers alike. Whether for day to day use or special events like children’s theatre, carnival, summer or Christmas parties, the system’s versatility and flexibility combined with its ease of operation makes it an outstanding solution:
“We like to listen to a lot of music and encourage the children to sing along and move. They’re always very happy when we sing and dance together. Unfortunately, our old system was very limiting in this respect, so we’re really happy that our support association has installed the new Optimal Audio solution, which sounds fantastic.”
Alex Barrand, EMEA Sales Manager at Optimal Audio adds:
“Whether for kindergarten, shop, house of worship, bar or restaurant, the award-winning Optimal Audio portfolio enables the delivery of flexible, high quality solutions across a wide spectrum of application. A focus on intuitive installation and operation is finding favour with customers across the world who are inspired by our commitment to challenge the traditional, often unnecessarily complex world of commercial audio, and deliver systems that can be operated by anyone – not just engineers.”
As part of its quest to simplify the world of commercial audio for integrators and end-users alike, UK commercial audio manufacturer Optimal Audio continues to evolve its ecosystem, and the very latest developments see updates to its WebApp and SmartAmp firmware.
WebApp unlocks the technology and capability behind Optimal Audio’s Zone series, providing the foundation to deliver efficient, high-quality multi-zoned commercial sound systems. Compatible with any device, WebApp makes system set-up straightforward and once completed, the venue staff can then be presented with a simple user interface which allows them to easily operate the system.
WebApp 1.2 sees a number of additions designed to make system configuration more powerful, including the ability to add system settings or preferences to a timed routine, allowing end-users in busy settings to remain focused on their work, rather than making adjustments to their audio system. An example of this might be the introduction of a subwoofer setting in the evening to help increase the party mood.
System management is also made easier through the ability to upload and download system files, so they could easily be transported to another site as necessary. Finally, WebApp 1.2 introduces a system diagram generator with DRAW.IO compatibility, enabling system integrators to easily share an overview of the planned system.
All the features of WebApp 1.2 are also available in the offline WebApp Desktop Demo which is compatible with Mac and PC. This allows installers and system integrators to get familiar with all the features of WebApp, without needing to be connected to a Zone, but also enables their ability to start designing systems, setting up routines and customising controls to use at a later stage.
Firmware for Optimal Audio’s SmartAmp series is also released, including settings for its latest loudspeaker addition, Cuboid 6. Cuboid 6, a two-way, full range, passive, 6.5″ loudspeaker which also has a transformer variant, starts to ship from the middle of October and SmartAmp firmware V1.10 is released in anticipation.
Matt Rowe, Engineering Manager, stated:
“As users are quickly recognising, WebApp is the secret sauce of Optimal Audio’s eco-system, and with this latest release we continue to extend the possibilities for the system integrator while improving the simplicity that can be presented to the end-user. It underlines our commitment to ensure WebApp is the definitive set up and control platform for small to medium multi-zone venues.”
The function room of the Community Centre in Assentoft in Denmark is used for a wide variety of events, with meetings, formal dinners, parties and screenings of sports events all taking place in the venue. The facility’s management team recently decided to invest in a new audio system as they felt an upgrade of their facilities was necessary to improve the experience of the different groups using the facility.
The system in place was more than 25 years old and site manager Steffen Larsen engaged installer Simon Voigt Laursen of AVDEO to supply a solution. The project’s aim was to deliver superb audio quality from an easy to operate, zoned system.
Simon designed a complete Optimal Audio solution based on the Zone 4P 4-zone audio controller with DSP, amplification and WebApp. He comments:
“It is an absolute pleasure to work with this product. The Zone 4P DSP is the easiest I have ever installed! With this quality of technology and ease of setup, you’d also normally expect a much higher price point. It’s extremely intuitive to setup and configure, with the result that the whole configuration for the Community Centre was done within an hour.
“I like the fact that there are two Mic inputs on the back of the Zone 4P, with easy to configure basic EQ. It seems like everything is designed to make the installation/configuration process easy for the installer.”
Site Manager Steffen Larsen was effusive in praise:
“Just as we have a very wide range of applications to cover with the system, so we have a wide range of users who have varying levels of technical skill. The ease of use of the Zone 4P and WebApp removes any complications – everyone can use the system with confidence, and it sounds fantastic!”
Two Optimal Audio Cuboid 8 loudspeakers and a SmartAmp 30 amplifier were supplemented by five ADORN loudspeakers from sister company Martin Audio. The presets for both Cuboid and ADORN units are contained within the Optimal Audio WebApp, once again making for easy installation.
Simon’s view of the Optimal Audio loudspeakers was consistent with his appreciation of the Zone4:
“The 8-inch Cuboid 8 speakers are easy to install with the U brackets and suit the room really well, while the presets in the SmartAmp 30 make the configuration of the speaker very easy. As well as being wonderfully easy to install and use, the system sounds amazing and the customer is very happy.”
As part of its quest to simplify the world of commercial audio for integrators and end-users alike, UK commercial audio manufacturer Optimal Audio continues to evolve and expand its ecosystem. The very latest developments see the introduction of its latest loudspeakers, the Cuboid 6 and 6TX.
The popularity of Optimal Audio’s Cuboid 3, 3TX, 5 and 5TX models has led directly to the release of the Cuboid 6 loudspeaker and 6TX with its powerful, high-grade 60W transformer for improved 70/100V line operation.
With an impressive 60W (AES) and 240W (peak) rating, these models deliver an audio output of 107dB (continuous) and 113dB (peak). With an IP54 rating and frequency response range of 90Hz to 20kHz, the Cuboid 6 and 6TX are an ideal solution for outdoor spaces where there is often a greater requirement for enhanced low end.
Managing Director Dom Harter comments:
“We’re delighted to complete the popular Cuboid series with the Cuboid 6 and 6TX – these new additions extend the brand’s indoor and outdoor applications and will continue to further the success of Optimal Audio in the commercial sector.”
The Optimal Audio ecosystem, complete with these new developments, can be explored at the company’s forthcoming Open Days which take place at its High Wycombe HQ on September 6th, 7th and 8th. The events will provide the perfect opportunity for those passionate about commercial audio technology to learn, network and grow their knowledge while enjoying a comprehensive tour of Optimal Audio’s products in the company’s multipurpose ‘venue’, The Optimal.
For more information about Cuboid loudspeakers:
https://generationav.net/products/optimal-audio-series/loudspeakers/cuboid/
Tenpin Dudley is one of 51 entertainment centres in the UK run by Tenpin Ltd. Although the popular venue’s primary focus is on its 28 bowling lanes, additional facilities include a licensed bar, arcade machines, live sports TV coverage, soft play area, pool tables, and 2 karaoke rooms which can accommodate up to ten customers each.
Always seeking to improve the experience of its guests, Tenpin wished to upgrade the audio system at the venue with a focus on improving control of distributed background audio across its different zones. Experienced integrator and regular Tenpin supplier Perfect Octave was engaged to deliver a high-quality, best-fit solution that would offer simple, intuitive operation for the venue’s staff.
Perfect Octave’s Peter Sheppard recommended an Optimal Audio solution:
“I discovered Optimal Audio’s products having attended one of their open days not long after the brand launched. Obviously, the connection with Martin Audio as part of the Focusrite group was a good indication that this new commercial audio brand would be of a very high standard, and I wasn’t disappointed. The Optimal Audio Zone 8 controller was the perfect choice for the Dudley site.”
Optimal Audio’s Zone 8 with DSP and WebApp presents users with a full suite of audio controls for up to 8 zones with fully flexible signal routing. With 2 mic, 4 stereo line and 2 HDMI inputs, Zone 8 has all the necessary I/O within a very competitively priced package. It enables easy configuration and everyday operation allowing the user to independently allocate sources across 8 configurable zones. Each zone can be configured for precisely what is required using the intuitive WebApp, including EQs, speaker presets, structured time of day routines and more.
As well as being designed to work seamlessly with products in the Optimal Audio range, Zone 8 can also be conveniently deployed to work with third-party products, and at Tenpin Dudley, Perfect Octave integrated the unit into the venue’s existing infrastructure using OSC. Using WebApp’s simple digital interface which hides any unnecessary information, members of staff were easily able to take control of the system. From a troubleshooting point of view, remote monitoring was important for Perfect Octave, so the Zone 8 was connected via VPN to enable easy maintenance.
Although the greater part of the system at Tenpin Dudley was already catered for in terms of loudspeakers, Perfect Octave recommended replacing the units in the karaoke rooms with Optimal Audio Cuboid 8 loudspeakers to improve the enjoyment of singers and listeners alike. Peter Sheppard comments:
“The Cuboid speakers are conspicuous for how great they sound and look. They’ve significantly elevated the experience in the Karaoke rooms at the venue, and we’re looking forward to using the IP54 rated Cuboid 3 and 5 units on future ventures.
The team at Tenpin Dudley is happy with its upgraded system, finding it to be reliable and easy to use. Underlining the success of the install is the fact that Optimal Audio solutions are currently destined for another 8 Tenpin sites in the hands of Perfect Octave, with more planned. In general, the smaller and medium Tenpin sites will be catered for using just the Zone 8 unit – on larger sites where the control requirements include lights and other elements, Zone and WebApp can be integrated with third party control solutions for seamless application.
Matt Rowe, Engineering Manager at Optimal Audio reflects on a successful installation:
“At Optimal Audio, our aim from the outset was to de-mystify much of the complexity faced by end-users in commercial audio settings. The market was crying out for easy to use, intuitive solutions that could be operated by busy members of staff in retail, hospitality and entertainment settings, such as Tenpin, without the need for extensive technical knowledge or training. Perfect Octave’s deployment of Zone 8 at the Dudley venue amply illustrates just how effective it can be as a control system in this type of environment. We were really pleased to see the Cuboid 8 speakers chosen for the karaoke rooms – Perfect Octave has already expressed an interest in using the full range of Optimal Audio loudspeakers on a number of future installs.”
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