Historic Dutch Venue Spant! Sets New Standard in Audio

BUSSUM, The Netherlands – A cornerstone of cultural programming in Bussum, Theater Spant! has taken a significant step forward in audio quality with the installation of a new professional L-Acoustics sound system: the Kara IIi system. This upgrade, part of a broader renovation, aims to enhance the audio experience for the wide variety of events held at the venue.

Upgrade for an Improved Sound Experience

“We needed to update our 20-year-old system, particularly to address overall coverage across the audience area,” say Jan Willem van Voorst and Frans Grolle, audio technicians at Theater Spant! “Audience members in the front rows sometimes felt the sound was too loud, while those in the balcony struggled to hear clearly. Our goal was to ensure consistent, high-quality audio throughout the entire space.”

The planned improvements were comprehensive: better sound dispersion, more even sound pressure levels, and accurate reproduction across the full audio spectrum. Equally important was that the new system needed to be versatile enough to handle different types of music and speech, from corporate events with multiple headsets to theatrical performances and concerts.

Choosing the Kara II Sound System

After careful consideration and a demonstration organized by certified L-Acoustics distributor Fairlight, the L-Acoustics Kara IIi system emerged as the best choice. Through close collaboration between the teams and the use of L-Acoustics Soundvision software, the perfect solution for Theater Spant! was achieved.

The new setup features left and right line arrays, each consisting of two SB18 II subwoofers and eight Kara IIi full-range speakers. For additional low-frequency reinforcement, KS28 subwoofers have been installed on each side. Further, X12 in-fills are positioned on the stage, four 5XT speakers provide front-fill coverage, and 5XT in-fills are placed behind the lights on the balcony.

“The installation went smoothly and professionally,” Van Voorst describes. “The teams from Fairlight and L-Acoustics collaborated well with our own technicians and paid close attention to key details, such as amplifier placement. The result is a system that is both powerful and user-friendly.”

With this upgrade, Theater Spant! is now better equipped for a diverse program of events. The new system provides improved sound coverage and quality throughout the space, with the most noticeable improvement around the balcony, where audio previously was not always optimal.

“We are extremely pleased with the result,” Van Voorst concludes. “The new system meets our expectations for both in-house productions and external events. It represents a significant step forward in the audio experience for all our visitors.”

This L-Acoustics investment represents a major commitment to Theater Spant!’s future, enabling the venue to deliver exceptional audio quality across a wide range of performances and events.