In Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, a cultural cornerstone has received a notable audio upgrade. The YOU Sunagawa City Community Center, a 4,000-square-metre hub of community engagement, has enhanced its 500-capacity large hall with a new L-Acoustics K Series professional sound system.
For nearly two decades, this versatile venue has been central to Sunagawa’s cultural life, hosting a variety of events from concerts and musicals to film screenings and industry seminars. After 17 years of service, the Large Hall’s audio system was due for an update.
Yuji Denpo, Head of Stage Technology at the Center, explains, “We were experiencing issues with sound quality, particularly regarding clarity in the back rows and volume management in the front. We sought a solution to better meet the expectations of our diverse audiences and performances.”
Drawing from his experience with L-Acoustics in the live audio rental sector, Mr. Denpo collaborated with K’s Sound Co., Ltd.’s Managing Director, Yasutaka Shinada to design an ideal sound system. “We focused on achieving uniform coverage and clarity throughout the hall,” Mr. Shinada notes. “After thorough analysis and 3D modelling with Soundvision software, we determined that the Kiva II line array system would deliver the optimal sound experience for this unique space.”
The design, which integrates discretely into the hall’s architecture, comprises a main L/R system of five Kiva II speakers atop two SB15m subwoofers per side, housed behind acoustically transparent mesh screens within recessed enclosures flanking the stage. Six X4i speakers along the stage lip ensure comprehensive front-fill coverage. Three LA4X and one LA2Xi amplified controllers power the entire system, offering ample headroom and precise control.
Mr. Shinada praises the system’s adaptability: “The compact design of the Kiva II allowed for seamless integration into the existing architecture. Its installation flexibility, precise angle adjustments, and the complementary X4i front-fill created an effective solution for the hall’s diverse needs.”
The new system achieves consistent coverage, with minimal variation from front to back of the hall. This uniform sound field ensures that every seat experiences similar audio quality, whether for a classical concert, a contemporary performance, or a speaking engagement.
Mr. Denpo is pleased with the results: “The improvement is significant. The clarity and presence of the L-Acoustics professional sound system greatly enhances our audio capabilities. We’re now able to deliver improved sound quality to our community across various events.”
Initial feedback from guests has been positive. Post-event surveys indicate widespread appreciation for the improved sound quality, with attendees noting consistent clarity throughout the venue.
