L-Acoustics optimizes sound at the Cartonnerie de Reims

In this innovative cultural center in Reims, the sound system has been updated using L-Acoustics. An L2D suspension system has been installed on each side, flanked by two KS21 subwoofers in cardioid mode. Three KS28 subwoofers have been hung and another is in the center of the stage.

For ten years, the cardboard factory has been a fundamental cultural pillar of the contemporary music scene of Reims (France). Now, with the upgrade to a L-Acoustics L series system with cardioid technology, the enclosure, which houses up to 120 concerts a year, has written a new chapter in his musical career.

This major upgrade to the Great Hall, which has received artists like Justice, Christine and the Queens y Stromae, marks a milestone in the Cartonnerie's commitment to maintaining its acoustic performance standards.

The complex of 4.000 square meters of the Cartonnerie houses three different performance spaces: the spacious Great Room with capacity for 1.200 personas, an intimate club with 350 seats and the versatile Music Room, a warming area that also functions as a bar and restaurant. In addition to concerts, supports musicians through residency programs and promotes cultural initiatives such as the La Magnifique Society festival.

When MDS Audio, certified L-Acoustics partner, y Orion They entered the Great Hall of the Cartonnerie for the first time, They knew they were facing an acoustic challenge. The venue's distinctive multi-level architecture and challenging asymmetrical configuration demanded a sound solution that could deliver crystal-clear audio throughout the space..

“The search for the perfect sound was not limited to technical specifications”, explains Jérémie Valensi, technical director of the Cartonnerie. “L-Acoustics stood out for its sustainable manufacturing approach and its commitment to French production. On Serie L, with his Progressive Ultra-dense Line Source technology, offered just what our complex space needed: exceptional sound performance, an impressive power-to-size ratio and versatility that allowed us to meet our unique architectural challenges”.

Sound vision: Digital twin

The installation presented multiple challenges, including ensuring uniform sound coverage in a complex multi-level space, while maintaining optimal lines of sight.

L-Acoustics Soundvision software became the team's essential tool, allowing for accurate acoustic modeling that validated speaker placement before beginning installation.

“We had to be meticulous”, remember Valensi. “Our goal was to create an audio experience where every seat felt like the best one in the house.. We needed to cover the entire room, from the front row to the back of the balcony, without compromising aesthetics”.

Acoustic regulations added another technical challenge, especially with regard to dB measurement. The team had to position the subwoofers to meet the decibel standards, while maintaining sound quality throughout the venue. Their solution consisted of a core group of three subwoofers in cardioid mode, which required the creation of new rigging points to achieve a visually discreet result.

The final installation includes a L2D suspension system on each side, flanked by two subwoofers KS21 in cardioid mode, a central group hung from three subwoofers KS28, also in cardioid, and a KS28 in the center of the stage. Two X8s placed to the left and right of the stage serve as fillers, while three X8 are distributed around the stage.

“This is not just a sound system; It's like we've moved a first-class recording studio into a concert hall.”, valence affirmation. “At first, visiting sound engineers are skeptical upon seeing the compact setup, but in a matter of seconds, your doubts disappear. Areas that previously presented acoustic challenges are now indistinguishable. We have built the Cartonnerie's reputation for exceptional sound and hope it inspires the next generation of artists and audiences.”.