Interview with audio mastermind of the new club in Space Replicator – PRST

Q: Your installation features an Active Noise Control system between the club room and the bar area that reduces bass spill into the bar and, critically, surrounding residents. Can you walk us through how this works in practice, and why it was so critical for this particular club location?

A: Our Active Noise Control system is designed to cancel out low-frequency signals that spill through the otherwise open sound barrier between the dancefloor and the bar. Without the Active Noise Control, the unique atmosphere of the bar would definitely be lost. Furthermore, the adjacent building is only separated by the bar room, without significantly reducing the main floor’s bass energy, there would certainly be complaints. And since the club is directly across from numerous residential buildings, the open floor-to-ceiling windows make noise control a critical priority in the summer. Within the bar/club concept, the Active Noise Control therefore allows the club to operate at the desired volume while remaining respectful of local residents.

"For first-timers, entering the clubroom and walking past the Active Noise Control is always a moment of impact - a rush of the unexpected, disbelief, an instant wow factor".

Q: You selected to install a Horizontal Double Endfire Bass Array using eight Lambda Labs DH-18 subwoofers. Why did you choose this specific set-up, and how does it interact with the unique geometry of the club space?

A: The Double "Endfire" Bass Array provides exceptionally controlled and precise bass reproduction. With eight Lambda Labs DH-18 subwoofers placed in two lines - one in front of the DJ and one behind - we were able to create a system that perfectly integrates with the horizontal plane of the room. Thus, there are no reflections from the side walls, as well as an even bass response throughout the length of the room (from the DJ booth to the bar at the back), while also avoiding reflections from the back wall due to the "endfire" arrangement.

Listeners experience no bass "hot spots" or "dead zones" but the same powerful and clean low end across the whole dancefloor.

Q: Alongside the bass array, you integrated a Custom Hybrid Corner Bass Trap at the end of the clubroom. How does this improve bass control and ensure consistency across the entire dancefloor?

A: The clubroom narrows towards the back, which naturally creates even more acoustic challenges in the low-frequency range. By building a hybrid custom-corner bass trap at this critical point, we are able to prevent bass build-up, which also keeps the working environment comfortable for employees.

The result is an exceptionally linear low-end response, ensuring both definition and impact are felt evenly throughout the entire clubroom.

Q: The club features a Lambda Labs QX system, which you mentioned feels almost as if the room itself was designed for the sound concept. What advantages does this system bring in terms of coverage, clarity, and maintaining a uniform sound experience for listeners?

A: The Lambda Labs QX system was the ideal choice because of its size, construction, and dispersion characteristics. It allowed us to integrate the system so seamlessly that it feels almost as if the room was built around the QX - not the other way around.

The result is an extremely homogeneous and even coverage across the whole frequency and level spectrum. Listeners can enjoy the same balance of clarity, punch, and immersion wherever they are standing.

Q: For the DJ booth set-up, you installed 4 of your custom-built 15“ subwoofers and 2x Lambda Labs TX-3A tops. How important was it to create a monitor system that mirrors the main floor sound, and how does this influence the artist’s performance?

A: For performers, it’s crucial that the monitor sound matches the main floor sound as closely as possible - besides providing a top-notch working environment. Our tailor-built CB-Design subs are, like the main system, not only (and of course) perfectly in phase with the Lambda Labs TX-3A tops but are also seamlessly blended with the Double Endfire system. This creates a monitor experience nearly identical to what the crowd actually hears.

This makes mixing intuitive for the DJs, lets the audience feel what’s happening behind the booth, and helps the performer fully immerse themselves in their performance.

Q: Beyond what we have discussed, you implemented several additional acoustic measures. In your opinion, what sets this venue apart acoustically?

A: We took a holistic approach to the acoustics of the venue, which, in our opinion, are just as important as the sound reproduction. Besides the ANC, bass arrays, and traps, we carefully treated the room to optimize reflection, absorption, and diffusion across the frequency spectrum.

The result is a club that not only sounds powerful but also exceptionally balanced and musical. The feedback we have received leads us to believe this venue ranks among the best in its size category - not only nationally, but internationally as well.

Q: Finally, Space Replicator lets people “step into” the sound of the club virtually. How does this tool help convey the impact of your installation to people who might not be able to experience it live?

A: Sound installations are often difficult to communicate outside of the actual space - you really have to be there to understand the full impact. Space Replicator bridges this gap by allowing people to virtually experience how the club sounds. It gives promoters, DJs, and music lovers a way to appreciate the precision and atmosphere even if they’ve never set foot inside the venue.