We installed and continue to maintain, a multi-zoned PA system around the venue.

This Includes:

• BSS Soundweb

• Crown Audio Amplifiers

• Martin Audio Speakers

Installing a Multi-Zoned Audio System with Martin Audio, Crown & BSS: A Case Study

When approached by our client to design and install a high-performance multi-zoned audio system for their newly renovated venue, we knew this would be a project that required precision, reliability, and premium sound quality throughout. From the outset, our goal was to deliver an integrated sound experience that matched the sophistication of the space and offered flexibility for a range of events and uses.

After extensive consultation with the client and a thorough site survey, we specified a complete system comprising Martin Audio loudspeakers, Crown amplifiers, and BSS Soundweb London processing. This combination ensured a future-proof solution offering world-class audio quality, intuitive control, and bulletproof reliability.

The Brief

The venue is a multi-functional hospitality space spread across several areas including a lounge, dining area, outdoor terrace, private hire room, and bar. The client wanted independent control of music levels and sources in each of these areas, while still having the option to link zones for live events or DJ sets.

Key requirements included:

• Exceptional audio clarity at all volume levels

• Seamless zoning with user-friendly control interfaces

• Flexibility to play different sources in different areas

• Integration of background music with occasional live performance capability

Design & Equipment Selection

We chose Martin Audio for their reputation in delivering coherent and powerful sound in both commercial and live settings. Compact Martin Audio CDD series loudspeakers were installed throughout the venue. These coaxial differential dispersion speakers offered wide and even coverage, reducing the number of speakers needed and maintaining the visual aesthetics of the venue.

For amplification, we specified Crown XLS DriveCore™ amplifiers, renowned for their clean power delivery and energy efficiency. These were rack-mounted centrally in a secure equipment room, offering ample headroom and low total harmonic distortion even at high output levels.

To tie the system together, we used BSS Soundweb London for all signal processing and routing. The BSS platform offered an extremely flexible DSP architecture, allowing us to create custom configurations for each zone and provide the client with intuitive control over the system.

Installation & Setup

The installation was carried out over a two-week period to accommodate the final stages of the venue refurbishment. Our team installed speakers in ceilings, on walls, and in bespoke housings where necessary, ensuring that speaker positioning maximised acoustic performance without detracting from the interior design.

We programmed the BSS system with six separate audio zones, each with individual volume and source controls. Wall-mounted controllers were fitted in discreet locations, and a tablet-based interface was created for management-level control, allowing seamless switching between presets (e.g. daytime ambience, evening dining, event mode).

All speaker positions were tested and calibrated using pink noise and real-world music references, ensuring balanced coverage and phase alignment across all zones.

The Result

The end result was a crystal-clear, fully zoned audio system that delivers both subtle background music and powerful foreground audio when required. The combination of Martin Audio, Crown, and BSS components worked in perfect synergy to provide a rich, immersive sound experience with reliable day-to-day operation.

The client was particularly impressed with the ease of control, and has since used the system for everything from solo acoustic sets to full DJ nights – without a single hiccup.

Conclusion

Installing a professional-grade, multi-zoned audio system demands thoughtful planning, high-quality components, and detailed commissioning. By using Martin Audio speakers, Crown amplifiers, and BSS processing, we’ve delivered a solution that not only meets but exceeds expectations. Whether it’s background ambience or full-on party mode, this system has it covered.

If you're considering an audio upgrade or a new installation, get in touch to see how we can bring your space to life with premium, zoned sound.