MINNEAPOLIS, MN – Audio Logic Systems (ALS), a premier provider of professional audio-visual solutions, has partnered with Hennepin Arts and supported by d&b audiotechnik to complete a significant audio system upgrade at the historic Pantages Theatre in downtown Minneapolis. This project is a major milestone, as the Pantages Theatre is now home to the first d&b audiotechnik CCL (Compact Cardioid Line Array) system installed in Minnesota.
The installation features a meticulously designed d&b audiotechnik system, replacing an aging system that was no longer supported by its manufacturer or capable of meeting contemporary touring rider specifications. The new system is comprised of:
- Main Array: (28) CCL8 and (4) CCL12 enclosures
- Fill Speakers: (4) Y10P for front fill and (5) Yi10P under-balcony delays
- Subwoofers: (4) SL-G subs
- Amplification: (10) 40D and (2) D90 amplifiers
John Simshauser, Director of Operations at Audio Logic Systems, emphasized the technical advantages of selecting the CCL system for the 1,014-seat venue, which originally opened in 1916. “The CCL is ideal for the Pantages due to its compact size, high output-to-size/weight ratio, and excellent broadband pattern control,” Simshauser stated. “As a smaller, historic venue with a tighter proscenium, the compact footprint of the CCL seamlessly integrates with the theatre’s visual aesthetic, minimizing sightline restrictions and optimizing box office capacity.”
The design successfully addressed the venue’s large vertical coverage challenge, deploying 16-box arrays with no concern over total weight, providing ample output to cover both the under-balcony and upper-balcony seating areas. The system’s performance excelled in two key areas:
- High-Frequency Performance: The new high-frequency drivers and waveguide design along with the use of ArrayProcessing, ensure consistent coverage for the furthest seats, even in the low-humidity conditions typical of a Minnesota winter.
- Broadband Pattern Control: The cardioid design results in an immediate improvement in low-mid control, by minimizing potential reflections, allowing the team to maintain depth in the system without the sound becoming “muddy or dull,” a known issue with the previous system.
The Pantages Theatre project, along with the recent installation of a d&b audiotechnik KSL system at the nearby State Theatre (also owned by Hennepin Arts), ensures both facilities are technical rider-friendly houses that can meet the rigorous demands of today’s touring artists. Music fans can continue to enjoy a variety of performances and productions at two of the premier music venues in the Twin Cities.
“Patrons will first and foremost notice the remarkably even sonic coverage from the front to the back of the house,” Simshauser added. “With ArrayProcessing maintaining consistent tonality and the broadband pattern control focusing acoustic energy on the seats—rather than reflecting off the stage, walls, and ceiling—the sonic experience is highly uniform throughout the venue. Additionally, guest audio engineers will have access to powerful tools, such as ArrayProcessing and CPL filters, allowing them to easily tailor the PA to their specific needs while having more than adequate power and headroom.”
About Audio Logic Systems:
Audio Logic Systems is a leading audio-visual integration company specializing in designing and installing high-performance sound systems for a wide range of venues, including houses of worship, educational institutions, and performance halls.
About Hennepin Arts
Founded in 2000, Hennepin Arts is a non-profit organization dedicated to the revitalization of historic theatrical spaces in downtown Minneapolis, including the Pantages, State, Orpheum, and Dudley Riggs Theatres.
About d&b audiotechnik:
d&b audiotechnik provides professional audio technology and solutions to accurately transfer passions through high-end quality speech and music reproduction. d&b audiotechnik is internationally regarded as a leading company for sound reinforcement systems in installed and mobile applications, with a reputation for quality of construction, standard of service, system integration principles, and pioneering technological developments.
Founded in Germany in 1981, d&b audiotechnik headquarters are located in Backnang, near Stuttgart, where research, development and production take place. With sales offices in major cities around the world, the d&b audiotechnik team numbers more than 800 co-workers. www.dbaudio.com.
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