QSC Core System

With many of the projects gracing the UAE’S hospitality sector being relaunches, reworks or renovations of existing brands, which from an AV standpoint can be either a blessing or a curse, when Pitfire Pizza opened a new outlet in Dubai Hills Business Park recently, it offered a completely blank canvas.

Pitfire’s success story began in 2014 when husband-and- wife duo, Michele and Bill Johnson, opened the first-ever Pitfire Pizza in The Greens. A decade on and Pitfire has gained a cult following and spread to five dine-in outlets across Dubai. The brand not only promises one of the best slices in town, but the new Dubai Hills location is also home to a fully licensed bar. Since opening, it has quickly become something of a community hotspot.

To create a truly unique dining experience for its guests, the new outlet was in need of a sophisticated audio system with independently controlled zones throughout. There was a desire for tailored soundscapes in each of its five different areas in order to ensure a perfect ambience for every occasion. AVI-SPL was quickly enlisted to devise a suitable solution, working closely with Bill to understand his vision and specific requirements.

The team, led by AVI-SPL Middle East’s business development manager Nick Hartshorn, installed a comprehensive distributed audio setup featuring 29 sleek black Fulcrum Acoustic RX699 6.5-inch coaxial speakers and supplementary Sub112 12-inch subwoofers. These have been integrated into the venue’s specially designed rafters, complementing the dining area’s overall aesthetic.

For operation and flexibility, a QSC Core system was also integrated, linking the audio system with the building’s network and fire alarm systems. Staff can easily control it via wall-mounted panels or any Bluetooth-connected device. “Creating this sophisticated and adaptable audio environment involved detailed consultations with the owner to understand his specific requirements,” explained Hartshorn, “while the expert installation and calibration of the audio equipment ensured optimal sound distribution across the different zones. The QSC Core system provides both safety and ease of control, while its operability from wall plates and remotely allows staff to manage the audio environment based on varying crowd sizes and event types, allowing for immediate adjustments, which is crucial during events or peak dining times.”

Each of the five zones allows for different audio settings across various sections of the restaurant. The entrance area can play energising, welcoming music, while the dining area can maintain a softer, more intimate ambiance.

For AVL-SPL Middle East, the project faced two primary challenges: a quick turnaround due to the venue’s imminent scheduled opening, and achieving optimal audio balance, especially considering the varying capacity levels the venue would experience. The company tackled this by deploying an experienced team known for their fast-track project delivery. The integrator ensured that every phase, from procurement through testing, was expedited without compromising on quality.

The initial acoustic engineering involved close collaboration with Bill and his team to set the audio environment. Further refinement was achieved by engaging business development director Val Gilbert from Fulcrum Acoustic. This collaborative effort was crucial in adjusting the sound system to be highly responsive to changes in venue capacity, ensuring optimal distribution and clarity at all times.

“AVI-SPL delivered the Pitfire project seamlessly, from conception to final delivery, meeting the customer’s brief for a discreet, but powerful and high-quality audio system. This is exactly the DNA of Fulcrum Acoustic products, offering exceptional performance, with precision coverage, putting sound exactly where it needs to be,” says Gilbert. “As Fulcrum Acoustic grows in the region, it was important that one of the first local projects set the bar. AVI-SPL have hit a home-run, and having visited the location, the system is as good as the pizza!”

The newly installed system provides precise control over audio levels across different zones of the restaurant, enhancing the ambience and overall customer experience. This tailored audio environment supports varying dynamics, from lively dinner rushes to quieter, intimate dining experiences, making it adaptable to any situation.

“The audio system has truly elevated the atmosphere of our Dubai Hills location,” reflects the owner. “Our customers are loving the new vibe, and we’ve noticed they tend to stay longer and enjoy their time more. AVI-SPL didn’t just install a sound system; they enhanced our entire sensory experience. The flexible audio zones allow us to host multiple events from sports nights, to corporate celebrations, giving extra focus in certain areas around the venue simultaneously without any disruption, which is fantastic for our business.”

The integration of high-quality speakers and subwoofers with advanced control systems has proven reliable during peak operations, ensuring continuous quality without disruptions. “The project culminated in a state-of-the-art audio system installation that not only met but exceeded the expectations set forth by Pitfire Pizza,” adds Hartshorn.

“The audio system has truly elevated the atmosphere of our Dubai Hills location. Our customers are loving the new vibe, and we’ve noticed they tend to stay longer and enjoy their time more."
— Owner of Pitfire Pizza

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The club has high ceilings and uneven walls covered with hard-reflective LED panels. Large structural columns obstruct coverage in certain areas. These conditions presented multiple acoustical challenges.

A distributed system provided the best solution for the room’s layout and the high sound pressure levels (SPLs) required for the club atmosphere. The main area below the DJ booth is covered by two AHC265. Their broadband pattern control is effective in the acoustically challenging space while their high output delivers impactful SPLs. Further back, two FH1596 act as delays. Both the AHC and FH boxes provide extended low frequency response reducing the number of subwoofers needed. CX1226 were installed around the perimeter to fill in coverage behind the obstructive structural columns. Two CX1226 act as DJ booth monitors.

Both the installer and customer were impressed with the system stating that the “sound image is accurate and clear giving people an enveloping feeling.” The high SPLs support the live performances with the distributed system providing even coverage throughout the space.

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QSC GXD4 Amplifiers
BSS Soundweb London DSP

• System design needs to work with the unique architecture and style of the space
• Loudspeakers need to withstand Texas weather in outdoor dining areas

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NX A/V chose Fulcrum Acoustic speakers because of their form factor, sound quality and reliability. The small-footprint of the coaxial CX loudspeakers created a space-efficient design. Since all Fulcrum Acoustic speakers are-built-to-order, the customer was able to order unfinished boxes and custom stain them to match the space. They also appreciated the unique and architecturally unobtrusive wedge shape of the CX enclosures.
The customer wanted the sound to enhance the dining experience without being too loud. Ron Stanley, proprietor of NX A/V, said that the speakers “envelop the space with a rich sound while staying intelligible at a low volume”. With two outdoor patios spaces making up a significant portion of the dining areas, Fulcrum WR speakers were deployed to withstand the Texas sun and heat.
Installers were surprised that the Fulcrum system required almost no EQ adjustment during setup and were impressed with the sound quality and coverage. The customer is very happy with the system saying that it complements the style and energy of the room. While they keep the volume low during dining hours, they love to crank it after hours.

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Crown Audio DCI Amplifiers

BSS Audio DSP

• The retractable roof creates a space with inconsistent acoustics that change as the roof is opened and closed.

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Nathan Powell, the Technical Director at Parx Casino was looking for a high output compact system that can handle the elements of an outdoor space while providing high fidelity sound. Additionally, the system had to blend well into the architectural design. “Our owner is very particular about aesthetics,” says Powell. “We wanted these loudspeakers to disappear into the fabric of our building columns while providing high quality audio. They also needed to be weather proof. I knew Fulcrum would be able to help us out.”

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Fulcrum Acoustic’s CX series offers multiple coverage patterns while maintaining the benefits of a compact coaxial loudspeaker, making the CX Series an ideal choice for this volatile space. The compact size and 90°x60° dispersion pattern of the CX896 provided the right combination of acoustical and aesthetic attributes. Their surprisingly high output provides the necessary SPL for a wide range of uses with the roof open or closed.

Between the CX Series’ small size and the custom coloring provided by Fulcrum Acoustic, the speakers easily blended into the space. The compact US212 companion subwoofers allowed Parx Casino installers to easily suspend them from the ceiling in order to provide the LF extension necessary for a high quality music experience. Fulcrum’s composite materials ensure that their WR loudspeakers are able to withstand any unexpected bad weather that hits the space. “The entire room can be rained on,” adds Powell. “We’ve had zero problems since these speakers went up and we’re all very pleased. It’s such a relief to have an outdoor space for events that is entirely waterproof.”

Linea Research Amplifiers

Symetrix DSP

• The loudspeakers are mounted near the ceiling for aesthetic reasons, yet the proximity to hotel rooms on the floor above has previously resulted in frequent noise complaints from guests.
• Speech intelligibility and overall audio clarity has been difficult in the event space with brick walls.

Fulcrum's Passive Cardioid Technology™ decreases excessive rear radiation from subwoofers and full-range systems. The result is less indirect/reflected low frequency energy in reverberant spaces. Additionally, the reduced rear radiation resulted in less overall sound energy traveling upward through the Bowery’s ceiling structure. "Bowery had tried everything," says Mike Sinclair. "Putting in a false ceiling, spraying foam, acoustic home remedies...but the sound was still getting through to the rooms above. Given their high-end clientele, I knew we couldn't dance around this. I needed a solution that would provide excellent sound quality and help reduce sound in the guest rooms above. The first thing that came to my head was passive cardioid."

Sinclair selected Fulcrum CCX1200, CCX1277, and CCX1295 loudspeakers with CS118 subwoofers for this project. Fulcrum Acoustic's CCX12 Coaxial Cardioid Loudspeakers combine Passive Cardioid Technology™ with Fulcrum's unique coaxial design to integrate impressive low frequency control into a compact, high-output coaxial design. The result is full, warm, controlled sound even at high volume; perfect for an event space. "Fulcrum's coaxial loudspeakers create serious power in a smaller cabinet," continues Sinclair. "This helped with the aesthetic of the space. Because of the compact and lightweight size of the CCX12 loudspeakers, we were able to suspend them using spring-type vibration isolators rather than mounting directly to the structure. This helped reduce structure-borne vibrations which could travel to the guest rooms above."

"It sounded amazing," says Larry Oakes, Production Manager at the Bowery Hotel. "We couldn't believe how loud it could go without disrupting the rooms upstairs. It's the first time I'm truly happy with the sound in our room since it opened 13 years ago."

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We couldn't believe how loud it could go without disrupting the rooms upstairs. It's the first time I'm truly happy with the sound in our room since it opened 13 years ago.
- Larry Oakes, Production Manager at the Bowery Hotel

• The addition of large mirrors and window repairs added reflective surfaces to the space thereby degrading speech intelligibility.
• Additional loudspeakers were added in an attempt to improve coverage but instead created more reverberation. This further degraded speech intelligibility and overall audio quality.

PIE (Professionally Installed Electronix), based in Pompano Beach, Florida, chose Fulcrum's FH Full Range Coaxial Horn to improve intelligibility and overall fidelity. FH series loudspeakers combine smooth, natural sound character with extended directional control, an important attribute for maintaining intelligibility in reverberant spaces. The ballroom, with its reflective surfaces and older population required precise pattern control to keep sound focused on the audience area. The CCX1265 Coaxial Cardioid Loudspeakers were added for supplementary coverage where needed. Fulcrum's Passive Cardioid Technology™ in the CCX1265 helps avoid energizing reflective surfaces by controlling excessive rear LF radiation, thereby allowing for pristine clarity. Sub215 Subwoofers supplement the main speakers to provide full, rich sound for music in addition to spoken word.

"Using Fulcrum's DSP settings, the system sounded great as soon as we turned it on for the first time," says installer Eric Manev. "I have never experienced such a natural sound from an initial system before. Most speakers seem to have a more unique character. These were so neutral I was a bit confused at first. Somehow the sound was just part of the room and did not seem to be coming from the speakers at all. I will definitely be recommending solutions by Fulcrum Acoustic to more of my clients.”

Marcy Bader, Social Director at Valencia Shores, agrees. "I really did not believe we could have achieved such a clear, crisp, and balanced sound especially with the obstacles our room possesses," she says. "Since then we have shown movies, lectures, concerts and all were met with very positive reviews."

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I have never experienced such a natural sound from an initial system before. I will definitely be recommending solutions by Fulcrum Acoustic to more of my clients.
- Eric Manev, Installer

Powersoft Ottocanali and X Series Amplifiers

Symetrix Signal Processors

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SOHY required powerful yet compact, loudspeakers with the flexibility to support vocal stage shows, fine instrumental performances, and headliner DJs without detracting from the club’s elegant design aesthetic. Pinpoint pattern control was also critical to keep sound from reflecting off stone, glass and aluminum finishes, and from spilling over into a five-star, high-rise hotel next door. Additionally, extremely durable, weather resistant loudspeakers were essential to withstand Ho Chi Minh City’s challenging environment of alternating phases of sweltering heat and tropical thunderstorms.

“One of our proposal’s big advantages was that Fulcrum Acoustic’s compact loudspeakers could provide high-fidelity, high-powered audio while easily integrating into SOHY’s very limited interior design provisions,” explains DesignLive Technologies owner Phu Tran Pham. “21 Fulcrum Prophile P 8-inch coaxial loudspeakers and 29 pole-mounted, weather-resistant DX896-WR dual 8-inch speakers provide even coverage, focusing immersive sound inward to the venue and away from reflective architectural surfaces and neighboring structures.” Fulcrum WR enclosures provide superior weather resistance in significantly lighter-weight packages, and feature triple-plated grilles and stainless steel mounting hardware.

“Fulcrum’s extremely powerful but deceptively small VLF Install Sub series installation subwoofers allowed us to implement the 15 subs EASE modeling called for to provide club-worthy low-frequency extension,” continues Phu Tran Pham. “Fulcrum also shared their extensive experience with nightclub systems to provide points of reference for our design which helped SOHY raise the bar with their new venue branded as the top luxury sky lounge in Vietnam.”

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Fulcrum also shared their extensive experience with nightclub systems to provide points of reference for our design which helped SOHY raise the bar with their new venue branded as the top luxury sky lounge in Vietnam.
- Phu Tran Pham, DesignLive Technologies

(6) XL Horn-Loaded Coaxial Loudspeakers

(8) Custom CSB Subwoofers

(46) Custom Ceiling Speakers

BSS Audio Soundweb London Processor and Expander

Crown Power Amps

Pioneer CDJ-1000 CD Players

Allen & Heath Xone 92 Mixer

Technics SL-1200 M5G Turntables

The big, boomy, round space presented a “sound designer’s worst nightmare,” explains Lyons. “Not only would sound reflections be focused back on the room but they would have a nice, long, leisurely trip on the way, making secondary and tertiary reflections.”

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Fulcrum’s design team, headed by company co-founder and R&D VP Dave Gunness, worked closely with Lyons to create a system that would minimize the impact of the highly reflective circular space. Eight custom-designed CSB subwoofers, along with US221-2 subs and XL mains, deliver robust and pristine sound to “crush” the XS dancefloor. Additional subwoofers and 46 custom, high-output ceiling speakers provide supplementary coverage for seating areas. “Fulcrum speakers have such incredible output and depth-of-field that you feel like you’re listening to a symphony orchestra, but at dancefloor sound pressure levels,” enthuses Lyons.

“Picture a set of headphones or a really great living room stereo system,” Lyons concludes. “To have that audio experience but on the dancefloor with 1,500 people, it’s a visceral experience, and it really is one of those things that causes people in a nightclub to be able to lose themselves.”

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To have that audio experience but on the dancefloor with 1,500 people, it’s a visceral experience, and it really is one of those things that causes people in a nightclub to be able to lose themselves.
John Lyons, sound designer

Lab.gruppen Power Amplifiers

Symetrix DSP

The underground, rectangular space with a nine to ten foot ceiling and lots of hard reflective surfaces presented some unusual acoustical challenges.

A distributed system provided the best solution for the room’s layout and the high sound pressure levels (SPLs) required. For the main area, two M-Series Dual 12 inch Coaxial Loudspeakers were used to deliver visceral impact at high SPLs with a dedicated LP transducer to provide maximum mid-bass impact. Three TS215 Dual 15 inch DirectRadiating Subwoofers were installed into the front of the stage to handle sub lows. A mixture of compact yet powerful Fulcrum S-Series and P-Series loudspeakers and US212 Dual 12 inch Direct-Radiating Subwoofers were deployed to fill the areas around the banquettes and the sides of the dance floor.

Symetrix Radius EX Processors

Powersoft M20D 2-Channel Power Amplifiers

PowersoftK3 DSP + AESOP

Compact, high-fidelity loudspeakers were required to deliver nightclub-worthy output and aesthetically integrate with the magnificent ballrooms

“The intent for both systems was to allow the venue to control the volume and clarity of DJs while still delivering that nightclub feel,” explains Synapse Audio Visual Designs owner Chris Obssuth. “Four Fulcrum Prophile Series S dual 8-inch coaxial loudspeakers were aimed to converge on the Crystal Point’s ballroom dancefloor, allowing the sound energy to be dissipated by the bodies of guests dancing. With little room to work with overhead, we rigged two Fulcrum Sub215 dual 15-in subwoofers to down-fire through a drop ceiling at each end of the dancefloor. Fulcrum’s compact designs made for the discreet and elegant install venue co-owners Kyle and Lisa Truesdale were looking for.”

“For the English Manor’s Grand Ballroom, we designed a similar distributed system with six Prophile Series P single 8-inch coaxial loudspeakers and a pair of Fulcrum US212 dual 12-inch direct-radiating subs for low-frequency extension,” recounts Obssuth. “As the ballroom had been recently renovated with gorgeous Swarovski crystal chandeliers and up-color lighting, we were very deliberate about using compact, low-profile loudspeakers that wouldn’t detract from its elegance. We specified Fulcrum Prophile Series coaxial speakers because their horizontally-oriented, trapezoidal cabinets allowed us to tuck them tight to the ceiling, and their wide 100° x 100° dispersion patterns are perfect for the ballrooms’ dancefloors.”

“We now have the most impressive sound and lighting systems in the region and the response to them has been overwhelmingly positive,” enthuses Truesdale. “We wanted high-quality, high-energy sound systems for our Crystal Point and English Manor ballrooms and it couldn’t have worked out better for us.

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We specified Fulcrum Prophile Series coaxial speakers because their horizontally-oriented, trapezoidal cabinets allowed us to tuck them tight to the ceiling, and their wide 100° x 100° dispersion patterns are perfect for the ballrooms’ dancefloors.
- Chris Obssuth, Synapse Audio Visual Designs

Lab.gruppen Installation Power Amplifiers

Biamp Systems TesiraFORTÉ Fixed Audio DSP

Salvation required pristine sound and precise pattern control from compact, weather resistant loudspeakers able to aesthetically integrate with their elegant architecture.

“The original inward-firing sound system’s loudspeaker positioning and directional control issues led to a number of noise complaints from nearby properties,” recalls USIS sound designer Scott Gantkin. “Rather than risking rear cabinet audio radiation by simply mounting better controlled loudspeakers onto the existing poles, I designed a downwardfiring distributed system to better contain sound within the open rooftop space.”

“I knew a distributed loudspeaker system would require less output and minimize reflected sound outside the property” explains Gantkin, “but how do you deploy ‘ceiling speakers’ when there’s no ceiling? The answer was to mount 16 Fulcrum RX699 6.5-inch weather-resistant coaxial loudspeakers from Salvation’s 10.5-foot high decorative metal trellis. The RXs are very effective in close quarters and their 90° x 90° dispersion uniformly covers the rooftop deck while reducing reflected sound. With the loudspeakers only four to five feet above customers’ heads, the system doesn’t need to play as loud. We also capped the sound system with SPL limiters in the Biamp Tesira DSP to keep the volume under control.”

“To support live DJ music after sunset, we installed two Fulcrum US212 dual 12-inch subwoofers on the rooftop deck. The direct-radiating, weather-resistant subs provide all the low-frequency impact we need from remarkably compact enclosures that don’t detract from Salvation’s sophisticated vibe,” concludes Gantkin. “The distributed system concept using Fulcrum’s high-fidelity, small form factor designs minimizes reflected sound outside the property and The Asbury’s management couldn’t be happier with their upgrade.”

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The distributed system concept using Fulcrum’s high-fidelity, small form factor designs minimizes reflected sound outside the property and The Asbury’s management couldn’t be happier with their upgrade
Scott Gantkin, USIS sound designer

Powersoft Quattrocanali Series Amplifiers

Symetrix Prism 8x8 Digital Signal Processor

Renkon Saigon required powerful, well-behaved loudspeakers capable of distributing high-fidelity sound uniformly throughout the acoustically challenging 2,100 square foot, two-floor venue. They also required a compact, visually unobtrusive sound system that would fit within the client’s strict budgetary parameters.

“We took extra care in designing around Renkon’s centerpiece winding wood staircase which allows each floor to operate as a separate coverage area for private events,” explains DesignLive’s founder Thu Ta. “A combination of six total Fulcrum CX896 and CX826 8-inch coaxial loudspeakers serve as fill systems. For such a small cabinet size, the CX8s’ provide extremely consistent coverage with excellent high-fidelity output. Low-frequency support for Renkon’s hip-hop heavy music mix comes from Fulcrum Sub115 15-inch subwoofers which have an incredibly smooth and deep bass response.”

The sound system discretely integrates with Renkon’s understated high-modern design aesthetic. A combination of CX8s’ unique vertically trapezoidal shape, which enables mounting tight to ceilings, and custom color-matched enclosures blend in seamlessly with Renkon’s elegant terrazzo base finishes.

“Our client and the interior designer were fantastic to work with as they truly understand how critical acoustics and aesthetics are for a high-quality hospitality venue,” enthuses Thu. “Renkon Saigon is undisputedly the best-sounding izakaya in downtown Saigon and the client absolutely loves the performance of the system.”

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Renkon Saigon is undisputedly the best-sounding izakaya in downtown Saigon and the client absolutely loves the performance of the system.
- Thu Ta, DesignLive

Powersoft Ottocanali Amplifiers

The Oxford Social Club required powerful yet compact loudspeakers capable of energizing its dance floor without detracting from the visual aesthetic of the lounge.

Lyons designed a system with eight Fulcrum Acoustic CX1295 12 inch coaxial loudspeakers, one Sub215 Dual 15 in Direct-Radiating Subwoofer, and seven Sub115 15 inch Direct-Radiating Subwoofers. The mains were carefully positioned inside soffits around the lounge, while the subwoofers were secreted into existing millwork and columns. Additional smaller side zone speakers were placed near the entryway and bathrooms.

“Any time I do a project I try to identify the products that are the best fit,” Lyons explains. “In this case we wanted high-powered, high-fidelity sound, but we didn’t want to take up a lot of visual space. Fulcrum was the clear choice.”

“I always tend to give my clients a little more than they ask for because I know that two hours into opening night they’re going to wish they had it,” he adds. “With the Fulcrum loudspeakers and Powersoft amps, this system is deceptively powerful. It’s kind of a wolf in sheep’s clothing. It can get really loud if the night calls for it.

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With the Fulcrum loudspeakers and Powersoft amps, this system is deceptively powerful. It’s kind of a wolf in sheep’s clothing. It can get really loud if the night calls for it.
- John Lyons, industry sound expert

Symetrix Radius 12x8 EX DSP

Powersoft Quattrocanali Series Amplifiers

angelina’s highly reflective brass, decorative tile and glass finishes required careful engineering and clean, precise output to minimize reflections and ensure high intelligibility. Compact yet powerful, high-performing loudspeakers were necessary to integrate into the venue’s tight floor plan without detracting from its visually stunning interior design.

“Our client demanded angelina’s sound system be of the highest quality and as discrete as possible,” says DesignLive’s Thu Ta. “A number of other integrators proposed large, unwieldy loudspeakers and subwoofers that would conflict with the lounge’s architectural motifs and tight spaces which include low ceilings in many areas.”

“Through EASE modeling, we designed a configurable distributed sound system with Fulcrum’s compact Prophile Series coaxial loudspeakers and VLF Install high-performance subwoofers,” explains Thu. “12 Prophile P 8” 2-way coaxial loudspeakers deliver the wide dispersion and high SPLs we needed from visually unobtrusive horizontal enclosures significantly smaller than those with offset drivers and horns. We deployed three low-profile Fulcrum Sub112 single 12” subwoofers and two US212 dual 12” subs which seamlessly integrate into furniture fittings to provide ‘invisible’ but powerful low frequency extension.”

“angelina’s distributed design creates an immersive 360° soundstage in the luxurious, high ceilinged, main cocktail bar area where the DJ is focused,” states Thu. “The closer quarters of the dining coves and exclusive whisky lounge enjoy a smooth, uniform audio experience with the Prophile P’s 100° x 100° coverage pattern. Our client is very pleased to have a sound system appropriate for such a historic and refined hospitality venue.”

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12 Prophile P 8” 2-way coaxial loudspeakers deliver the wide dispersion and high SPLs we needed from visually unobtrusive horizontal enclosures significantly smaller than those with offset drivers and horns.
- Thu Ta, DesignLive

Symetrix Radius 12x8 EX DSP

Powersoft M50Q Power Amplifi

• As the comedy club also hosts DJs and live bands, the system needed to reinforce music as well as speech
• The club's wide layout makes coverage difficult and large structural columns obstruct coverage in certain areas

For the front mains in the show room, the Parsons Audio team flew a left-center-right point-source system over the front of the stage.“The center speaker is a Fulcrum Acoustic DX1226, which is a dual-12-inch, coaxial loudspeaker with a 120° x 60° dispersion pattern,” explains Parsons Audio Managing Vice President Roger Talkov. “The left and right speakers are Fulcrum GX1265s. They have a very narrow pattern, 60° x 45°, so they were good choices to cover the wide left and right, filling in where the support columns obstructed the center speaker, while keeping sound off the walls.”

The building columns created some shadowing in the extreme rear of the room as well, so a pair of delayed Fulcrum RX599 loudspeakers were mounted along the sides to cover the back row of tables. The RX599 is a 5.25-inch coaxial speaker with a 90° x 90° pattern, and two of them provided the supplementary coverage needed. The result was higher output and better gain before feedback compared to the previous system.

Talkov’s team also chose Fulcrum's TS215ac self-powered, dual 15-inch, direct-radiating subwoofers. “The TS215ac is portable, which made it a great choice for Laugh Boston,” notes Talkov. “They wheel the subwoofer out for DJs and bands and put it away for stand-up acts, which don’t need it.”

Completing the loudspeaker complement are Fulcrum FX896 8-inch coaxial stage monitors. “The FX896 is an excellent choice for a comedy club that has relatively light stagemonitoring needs,” Talkov observes. “They were perfect for Laugh Boston.”

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The TS215ac is portable, which made it a great choice for Laugh Boston. They wheel the subwoofer out for DJs and bands and put it away for stand-up acts, which don’t need it.
- Roger Talkov, Parsons Audio Managing Vice President

Lab.gruppen C48:4 Power Amplifier

Symetrix Solus NX DSP

• The bar’s high ceiling, hard reflective surfaces and lack of acoustical treatment presented considerable sonic challenges
• The system needed the flexibility to deliver clear, crisp sound for live music including classic and alternative rock, country, blues, DJs and karaoke

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“The Frisco Bar’s always had live music but with a mishmash of sound gear collected over the years,” explains veteran AV integrator Danny Salinas. “Bands often brought in their own systems so the bar never had a consistent quality of sound. I designed a simple yet effective system to address their pressing audio challenges of muddy sound and spotty coverage. For mains, we rigged left/right Fulcrum Acoustic GX1595 15-inch coaxial speakers from the 24-foot ceiling. Their precise 90° x 45° pattern control keeps sound from bouncing off the bar’s drywall and concrete wall surfaces while providing uniform coverage throughout the space. A Fulcrum Sub218 dual 18-inch subwoofer onstage delivers all the extended low frequency support and output performers need.”

“The high-fidelity, full-range character of Fulcrum’s coaxial speakers is remarkably transparent,” Salinas relates “Their TQ™ processing ensures you get the same sonic accuracy and consistent voicing regardless of volume, whether it’s a karaoke performance or a loud rock band. Fulcrum also provided factory-verified settings for the system’s Symetrix DSP that made system tuning a snap. The speakers sounded great right out of the box.”

“Bands used to bring in their own portable sound systems because they lacked confidence in our house system,” states Tony Spino. “Now the Frisco Bar has a phenomenal sound system that’s attracting new customers and new musicians who want to play here. It gives every performer the opportunity to sound amazing.”

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Their TQ™ processing ensures you get the same sonic accuracy and consistent voicing regardless of volume, whether it’s a karaoke performance or a loud rock band.
- Danny Salinas, AV Integrator

BSS BLU-160 Processors

The basement-level, rectangular room’s 100 foot length, nine foot ceilings and hard reflective surfaces presented some unique acoustical challenges.

A distributed system centered around Fulcrum Acoustic’s club-ready Prophile Series loudspeakers was designed to deliver exceptional audio with accuracy and control, while still allowing conversations to happen throughout the venue. The primary PA consists of a pair of Prophile M speakers, a 12 inch, 3-way coaxial speaker, chosen for their tight pattern control which focuses the sound without creating a lot of reflections. The main PA is augmented by a series of delay zones further into the room, with all loudspeakers ceiling mounted. Two Fulcrum US212 subwoofers were flown alongside the main PA, positioned in cardioid pattern to control low frequencies on stage while radiating freely into the room. For the musicians, the stage features Fulcrum FX Series compact coaxial vocal monitors.

Ten Fulcrum Prophile S speakers, with a 3-way, dual 8 inch design and extra-wide 100° x 100° dispersion, cover the three main seating zones which include the restaurant and bar areas. The Prophile S speakers’ wide pattern, low horizontal profile and pristine sound were a great fit as zone speakers for the low-ceilinged space. They also allow the manager to change the volume in each zone to adjust to conditions during and between sets without upsetting the balance of the room.

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The Prophile S speakers’ wide pattern, low horizontal profile and pristine sound were a great fit as zone speakers for the low-ceilinged space. They also allow the manager to change the volume in each zone to adjust to conditions during and between sets without upsetting the balance of the room.

Crest Pro Amplifiers

Symetrix DSP

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The long, narrow and acoustically live space required a first-class sound system which could support the music without overwhelming the patrons’ conversations or distracting for the restaurant’s clean, modern décor.

Five Fulcrum Prophile S dual 8 inch coaxial loudspeakers handle the main space. Compact and low profile, the Prophile S 3-way, active system features Fulcrum’s advanced DSP-enhanced coaxial design which enables very wide (100° x 100°) dispersion. Its low frequency transducer delivers impressive mid-bass impact for its size. The loudspeaker’s horizontal orientation and trapezoidal shape allow it to be positioned in a variety of locations, including extremely close to ceilings, while remaining visually unobtrusive – perfect for an intimate restaurant like Azumi Sushi.

To support the DJ booth, Mike Denoe installed one recessed Fulcrum US212 dual 12 inch direct-radiating subwoofer. A baby brother to the US221; it provides similar impact and musicality, and does so from an enclosure that may be built into smaller spaces, such as Azumi's DJ booth.

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The loudspeaker’s horizontal orientation and trapezoidal shape allow it to be positioned in a variety of locations, including extremely close to ceilings, while remaining visually unobtrusive – perfect for an intimate restaurant like Azumi Sushi.

(6) Prophile XL Horn-Loaded Coaxial Loudspeakers, 90° x 45°

• The clubs’ distinctive glass-sheathed polyhedron architecture presented some unique acoustical challenges
• High-output loudspeakers needed to aesthetically integrate into the venues’ lavish décor
• Avalon required an aggressive and complex sound reinforcement system to deliver the elevated SPLs and the visceral low-frequency punch required to “crush” at all locations on its massive dance floor

Avalon’s dance floor and stage system feature Prophile XL, L and M series compact, coaxial loudspeakers designed specifically for the needs of high-energy nightclubs. Nextgeneration coaxial transducers give Prophile loudspeakers the ability to provide a stable, high-fidelity image, and Fulcrum’s Temporal Equalization™ technology adds studio-monitorclass transient response. US221-2 dual 21 inch ultra-compact, direct-radiating subwoofers provide gut-churning impact and solid musicality to the dance floor while Sub215 dual 15 inch direct-radiating subwoofers serve as monitors for the club’s internationally renowned DJs. Off the dance floor, Prophile series high-performance coaxial loudspeakers paired with FA Portable installation subwoofers proved the perfect fit for Avalon and Pangaea’s lounge areas – delivering Fulcrum’s signature clarity and precise directional control from compact, low-profile enclosures which seamlessly integrate into the space without detracting from the clubs’ bold architecture and breathtaking views of Marina Bay and Singapore at night.

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"...delivering Fulcrum’s signature clarity and precise directional control from compact, low-profile enclosures which seamlessly integrate into the space without detracting from the clubs’ bold architecture and breathtaking views of Marina Bay and Singapore at night.'

Symetrix Radius DSP

Powersoft M28Q and M50Q Amplifiers

• Eight-foot ceilings and hard reflective surfaces in the hotel lobby bar/dining area and basement speakeasy presented acoustical challenges
• Compact, high-fidelity loudspeakers were required to fit discretely in the hotel’s tight installation spaces without detracting from its elegant design aesthetic

“When our client said she was looking for small, high-end loudspeakers for the Life Hotel, I knew exactly where to turn,” explains Synapse Audio Visual Designs owner Chris Obssuth. “We designed a distributed system based on Fulcrum Acoustic’s RX Series coaxial loudspeakers. We’ve found their high output-to-size ratio and broad 90° x 90° coverage extremely effective in close quarters like the hotel spaces.”

Eight compact Fulcrum RX699 6.5-inch coaxial loudspeakers cover the lobby’s cozy bar and dining area with six additional RX699s in the historic downstairs speakeasy which was discovered during the hotel’s extensive renovation. “The beauty of Fulcrum’s RX Series speakers is that they’re very full sounding for a small form factor and their midbass is ridiculously good,” says Obssuth.

“We also installed two ultra-compact Fulcrum US212 dual 12-inch subwoofers in the hotel’s basement speakeasy for the low frequency extension needed to support live DJs,” recalls Obssuth. “When space is a challenge to find, as is often the case in New York city, Fulcrum loudspeakers are a great fit.”

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The beauty of Fulcrum’s RX Series speakers is that they’re very full sounding for a small form factor and their midbass is ridiculously good.
- Chris Obssuth, Synapse Audio Visual Designs Owner